With a complete redesign under its belt for 2016 the smart fortwo has more interior space than previous models. This was my first experience in smart and I can tell you that the interior is spacious and parking and maneuvering are a breeze and I drove the car in the crazy days before Christmas. So for city slickers like me that don’t have children at home or grandchildren it is a great car.
The 2016 smart fortwo is a small two-seater that is available as a coupe in four trim levels: Pure, Passion, Prime and Proxy. This review will focus on the Proxy trim.
The Proxy trim comes equipped with 16-inch wheels, white exterior trim, a lowered sport suspension, alloy pedals, automatic transmission shift paddles, and an eight-speaker JBL sound system in addition to the base equipment of LED daytime running lights, cruise control, power windows, cloth upholstery, air-conditioning, Bluetooth phone, and audio connectivity.
Also standard is the ability for iOS and select Android smartphone users to download a free Cross Connect app that controls phone, audio, Internet streaming radio, vehicle information and a navigation system.
Options include rear parking sensors, a frontal collision warning system, a center armrest and a phone cradle that positions smartphones in the middle of the dash and allows it to function as a touchscreen controller.
The smart makes the most of its 0.9 liter turbocharged 3 banger producing 89 horses and 100 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual is standard but my model came equipped with the optional 6-speed dual clutch transmission. Mileage estimates are a heafty 34/city, 39/highway and 36/combined mpg.
The smart may look tiny on the outside but it feels everything but tiny on the inside. Even taller passengers will find no complaints. Outward visibility is great and the interior is in keeping with the futuristic look of the car.
Trunk space is small at 9.2 cubic feet but I was surprised at how much I could actually get back there. I had Christmas packages, food and drinks to take to various celebrations and I had no problems with storage and I didn’t have to fold the passenger seat flat to accommodate it all.
The smart fortwo stays true to its design for city slickers. It slices through traffic with ease and is a snap to park even in the most cramped spaces. Say goodbye to Y-turns because the smart’s 22.8-foot turning circle puts an end to them.
As expected with a small engine acceleration is not the snappiest and the ride can be a bit bumpy over broken pavement. But in the city you’ll love the freedom you have from driving a car with a small footprint.
If you are a city slicker and want to reduce your footprint give the 2016 smart fortwo a test drive.
