passion 2dr Coupe
2016 smart fortwo electric drive

The all-new 2016 Smart fortwo boasts considerably greater refinement and it's much wider than before.

As the fortwo model name suggests, the Smart car is strictly a two-passenger model. It's also one of the most easily recognizable vehicles on the street. As before, the fortwo is the shortest car sold in the U.S.

Though only 8.8 feet long, the 2016 Smart fortwo is nearly 4 inches wider than previously, which makes it feel more like a compact car, until you realize that the back window is only two feet away. At the front, the familiar stub nose remains, but fresh styling with a better-defined hood comes across as jauntier than before.

While relatively simple, the cabin features various rounded forms. Gauges and a 3.5-inch color display occupy a small cluster ahead of the driver, surrounded by the speedometer.

Diverse interior trim gives each trim level a distinct character. An Edition #1 special trim package will be offered only for the 2016 model year.

The powertrain configuration is unchanged, with the engine mounted on its side, between the back wheels. Now equipped with a turbocharger, the 0.9-liter three-cylinder develops 89 horsepower, plus 100 pound-feet of torque (versus the previous 70 hp and 68 pound-feet). A 5-speed manual gearbox is standard, with a 6-speed dual-clutch automated transmission optional.

Gas mileage is not as thrifty as you might imagine for such a small car: The 2016 Smart fortwo is EPA-rated at 32/39 mpg City/Highway, or 35 mpg Combined, with the standard 5-speed manual. With the optional 6-speed dual-clutch automated manual, it's rated 34/39 mpg, 36 mpg Combined. As with the previous generation, Premium gasoline is required.

Few cars come anywhere close to the Smart fortwo's maneuverability, with a 22.8-foot turning circle (curb to curb). In addition to urban capabilities, the redesigned model has become way more capable in highway driving. Standard Crosswind Assist, for instance, helps keep the car in its lane when gusty side winds blow, automatically steering and braking to counteract sideways motion.

Forward-collision warning is optional. A rearview camera and dashboard-mounted navigation will be offered in the 2017 model year.

A redesigned Electric Drive model and a fabric-roof Cabrio will arrive for 2017. Meanwhile, the battery version continues to use the first-generation design for 2016.

The new structure contains about 75 percent high-strength steel. The redesigned model has not yet been crash-tested by either the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Made in France, Smart cars are part of the Mercedes-Benz group. Eight airbags are standard.
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