Fortwo and Forfour overhauled with a fresh look and new tech. Don't forget the Twingo...
You can't help but feel a little more positive about this Smart as PH-worthy runabout than the first car.
Roadster excepted of course. There's a new platform co-developed with Renault for
the Twingo, fresh three-cylinder engines and a choice of manual or dual clutch gearboxes. Dare it be said the looks have improved also?
Tridion safety cell continues in this version
Smart describes the appearance of both the new Fortwo and Forfour as 'FUN.ctional' with a 'self-assured' face and lots of themes carrid over between both models. There's certainly greater similarity between the two versions this time around and the design seems is more assertive. But then the Twingo looks pretty funky too... The Tridion cell continues as a safety and styling feature, with around 40 colour combos and the assurance that it 'performed well' in crash tests against Mercedes C- and S-Classes.
It wouldn't be a Smart without some wantonly wacky trim names so your Fortwo or Forfour will be offered as a passion, prime or proxy. We've no idea which one of these is the higher spec but Smart is very keen to point out the 'cross connect' app which 'offers even more features while on the move and outside of the vehicle'.
'Gently understeering' balance promised. Hmm
The first line of Smart's spiel on the new chassis says it has been 'configured for gently understeering handling characteristics' so anyone wary of some gung-ho rear-engined handling can rest easy. There's a new MacPherson front suspension, a De Dion rear axle that promises greater comfort and a sports suspension option too. The steering is notable for being mechanical with a Direct-Steer electric rack with a variable ratio optional. Should make wheel twirling through the 6.95m (kerb-to-kerb on the Fortwo) turning circle even easier.
Amongst the expected standard kit of ABS, ASR and ESP is Crosswind Assist, new tech that sort of does what it say on the tin for both 2.69m Fortwo and 3.49m Forfour. Active from 50mph and when driving straight ahead of gently cornering , the Crosswind Assist will brake if the car diverts off track. The driver will notice less correction required at the wheel and the ESP light flashing on the dash. It's standard on every model.
Praise be, the automated manual has gone!
Two new three-cylinder engines power the Smart. There's an entry level 999cc naturally aspirated model with 71hp (to be joined by a 60hp version later) and a 90hp 898cc turbo. As mentioned, the automated manual has been replaced too, with a six-speed dual clutch or five -speed manual offered in its place.
What can be seen of the new Smart's interior so far is encouraging, minimalist and quite bold. There will be a host of personalisation options, as well as fabric covering many of the surfaces.
Smart says the 71hp Fortwo will cost less than 11,000 euros (£8,700 at today's exchange rate) with the Forfour carrying a 600 euro (£475) premium. Expect UK prices nearer to the car's launch in November.
