Smart Fortwo Cabriolet (2007 - 2014) boot space, practicality and safety

This Fortwo doesn’t have a Euro NCAP crash test rating but this version is longer than before, which provides larger impact-absorbing crumple zones. All models get electronic stability control as standard, when it’s usually offered as an option on most other small cars. Driver and passenger airbags are standard (the passenger airbag can be deactivated if a child seat is being used), while side airbags (head and thorax) are optional.

The fabric roof is fully automatic and can be left open at any position – unlike the previous Fortwo cabriolet it doesn’t need to be ‘locked’ in its final position at the rear either. There’s also rear heated glass window as oppose to the PVC one on the older model and visibility out of the back is as good as in the coupe. Roof up or down, the cabriolet can carry the same amount of luggage as the coupe and with 220 litres there’s reasonable room for a small car designed for urban drivers.

For instance there’s almost twice the luggage room you’d find in a MINI Convertible with the roof down. If you load it up to the roof, you can squeeze in 340 litres of kit, although the short boot length means you won’t be able to carry any large objects. The twin section tailgate folds down like a pick-up and is a handy area to put things on. The tailgate itself also provides useful extra storage for odds and ends.

For more load carrying ability, the backrest of the passenger seat can be folded down flat. Inside there are a couple of storage areas, but new buyers will have to pay extra for a glovebox.