A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
3.8/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.2
Comfort & Interior
3.5
Running Costs
4.2
Practicality
3
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for the ultimate city car that makes the most of tight spaces? The Smart Fortwo might be exactly what you need for urban driving. This two seater microcar is designed specifically for city life, offering unmatched manoeuvrability and parking convenience that larger vehicles simply cannot match. The Fortwo excels in congested streets and tight parking spots where rivals like the Fiat 500 or Toyota Aygo might struggle to fit. With its rear mounted engine and compact dimensions, this smart choice delivers surprisingly nippy performance around town. The latest generation offers improved refinement and modern technology while maintaining the distinctive styling that makes it instantly recognisable. Whether you’re navigating busy city centres or squeezing into the smallest parking spaces, the Smart Fortwo transforms urban driving challenges into effortless journeys. Running costs are reasonable for city driving, with good fuel economy and low insurance groups making it an affordable choice for urban commuters. The Fortwo proves that sometimes less really is more, offering a unique driving experience that prioritises practicality and convenience over traditional space. For drivers who value parking ease above passenger space, few cars can match the Smart Fortwo’s city focused appeal.
What's the Smart Fortwo Like to Drive?
The Smart Fortwo prioritises efficiency and manoeuvrability over outright performance. The range includes small petrol engines and electric variants, all designed for city use. The 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine produces around 71 horsepower, which sounds modest but feels adequate for urban driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 14 seconds, making motorway merging a planned event rather than a spontaneous one. The electric version offers instant torque that makes city driving more responsive.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
1.0L 3-cylinder petrol / Electric
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Power Output
71 - 82 bhp
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0-60 mph
14.4 - 11.6 seconds
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MPG Combined
55 - 68 mpg (petrol)
- Boot Space
- 260 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★☆ (Euro NCAP)
How Comfortable Is the Smart Fortwo?
Step inside and the Smart Fortwo’s interior feels much more spacious than its exterior dimensions suggest. The upright seating position and large windows create an airy, open feeling that works well for two occupants. The dashboard design is functional rather than luxurious, with hard-wearing plastics that can withstand daily urban use. The infotainment system includes smartphone integration, though the screen size is modest compared to larger cars.
The Smart Fortwo excels as a city-centric microcar, offering unmatched maneuverability and parking ease in tight spaces. Its electric variant delivers instant torque for urban efficiency, while the petrol engine prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance. Comfortable enough for daily use, though cramped for longer trips. Practicality is limited, and highway speeds feel restrained. A niche choice for urbanites valuing efficiency and novelty over space or power.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Smart Fortwo?
The Smart Fortwo excels when it comes to running costs, making it an attractive proposition for budget-conscious drivers. Fuel economy is excellent, with the petrol models achieving between 55-68 MPG in real-world driving. The electric version eliminates fuel costs entirely, though you’ll need to factor in home charging or public charging expenses. Insurance groups are generally low, reflecting the car’s modest performance and urban focus.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Smart Fortwo
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Toyota Yaris
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Hyundai i20
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £17,000 | £19,000 | £18,500 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 1.0L 71hp | 1.0L 72hp | 1.2L 84hp |
| Power | 71 bhp | 72 bhp | 84 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 14.4 seconds | 13.8 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 65 mpg | 58 mpg | 52 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 260 litres | 286 litres | 311 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Tiny footprint, Easy parking, Unique style | Reliability, Practicality, Hybrid option | Value for money, Five doors, Good warranty |
Is the Smart Fortwo Practical for Everyday Use?
For a car this small, the Smart Fortwo is surprisingly practical in its intended role. The 260-litre boot easily handles a weekly shop for two people or several small suitcases. The rear seats fold down, though this is academic since there are no rear seats. Loading is easy thanks to the tailgate opening and low loading lip. Various storage solutions throughout the cabin help manage day-to-day items, though space is obviously at a premium.
Perfect for London living. I can park anywhere and the running costs are tiny. It’s not fast but it’s surprisingly fun to drive around town. The only downside is you can’t take more than one friend anywhere.
The Smart Fortwo occupies a unique position in the car market by prioritising urban usability above all else. It delivers exceptional fuel economy, rock-bottom running costs, and parking convenience that no conventional car can match. The distinctive styling and characterful driving experience add charm to the practical benefits. For city dwellers who prioritise convenience and economy, it offers a compelling alternative to traditional small cars.