Smart Fortwo

Overview: Is the Smart Fortwo a Good City Car?

The Smart Fortwo, a microcar known for its distinctive compact design, made its mark in the U.S. market for a select period. Although the Fortwo has been sold in many markets since 1998, it was offered in the U.S. for two generations:

• Smart Fortwo second generation: 2008-2015
• Smart Fortwo third generation: 2016-2018

Conceived as a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Swatch, the Fortwo aimed to revolutionize urban mobility with its ultra-compact footprint and unique styling. The larger, two-row Smart Forfour was never offered in the U.S.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Smart Fortwo cars for sale.

Find a used Smart Fortwo near me.

Related: Are Smart Cars Reliable? A Complete Breakdown

Key Features

The Smart Fortwo offers:

• Microcar body style
• Two-seat cabin
• Coupe or convertible (Cabrio or cabriolet) variants
• Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
• Available Smart Fortwo Electric Drive version (Smart ED)
• Tridion safety cell for enhanced crash protection
• Automated manual transmission (second generation) or dual-clutch automatic (third generation)

Trims

Smart offered the Fortwo in several configurations:

• Smart Fortwo Pure: Base model with essential features
• Smart Fortwo Passion: Added comfort and style elements
• Smart Fortwo Prime: Top-tier trim with premium amenities
• Smart Fortwo Electric Drive: All-electric variant (newer editions wear the Smart EQ Fortwo label)

A limited-edition Brabus edition was offered for select model years. Exact trim names and availability varied between generations and model years.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The Fortwo's interior is surprisingly spacious for such a small car. The high roofline and large windows create an airy feel, while the minimalist dashboard maximizes perceived space. While not luxurious, the seats offer decent comfort for short city trips. Later models feature a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration, bringing modern tech to this compact package. The Cabrio models offer open-air motoring with a power-retractable soft top that can be operated at any speed.

The coupe model's cargo space is understandably limited, at just 9.2 cubic feet behind the seats. However, this is often sufficient for grocery runs or weekend bags.

Review: How Long Do Smart Cars Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

How It Drives

The Smart Fortwo's driving experience is unique, reflecting its city-centric design. The second-generation U.S. models featured a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine producing 70 horsepower, paired with a much-criticized automated manual transmission. The third generation improved drivability with a 0.9-liter turbocharged three-cylinder, making 89 horsepower and a smoother dual-clutch automatic.

Electric Drive models, introduced in 2013, offered instant torque and smoother operation. The latest versions produce 80 horsepower and achieve a range of about 58 miles. The Fortwo's tiny 8.8-foot length and tight turning radius make it incredibly maneuverable in urban environments. However, its short wheelbase can lead to a choppy ride on highways. The car's tall, narrow profile also makes it susceptible to crosswinds at higher speeds.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has infrequently evaluated the Smart Fortwo. Some early models have a safety advisory due to the driver’s door opening during testing, a potential ejection hazard in a real-world accident. The 2017 Smart Car Fortwo received a four-star out of five overall safety rating.

Reviews

Smart Fortwo consumer reviews from Kelley Blue Book are overwhelmingly positive for the second generation (the first edition sold in the U.S.), with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5. Owners praise the ForTwo’s reliability, quality, value, and styling. There’s insufficient feedback on the third generation.

Learn More: The Smart Fortwo Years To Avoid

Smart Fortwo FAQs

Why is the Smart Fortwo Car discontinued?

Smart discontinued the Fortwo in the U.S. market after the 2018 model year due to low sales volumes and a shift in focus towards larger vehicles in the American market.

What are the issues with the Smart Fortwo?

Common issues reported include transmission problems in earlier models, limited highway stability, and a firm ride. Some owners also note the car's limited practicality for anything beyond urban use.

Are Smart Fortwo cars still sold in the US?

No, Smart officially exited the U.S. market after the 2018 model year. However, the Smart Fortwo models that are used remain available for those interested in this unique city car.

What is the Smart Fortwo price?

CoPilot marketplace information shows that a used Smart Fortwo costs $3,000 to $15,000, depending on age, condition, and equipment.

Check out a used Smart ForTwo for sale.