2008 smart fortwo Road Test Ratings

The Smart is fun in a goofy sort of way. It offers plenty of opportunity to entertain passengers and onlookers. But over time we expect the novelty to wear off. Especially when similarly priced subcompacts like the Fit and Yaris offer the same function with fewer quirks.

A 1.0-liter, 70-horsepower three-cylinder has the guts you'd expect. None. While enough to propel the car at a decent rate, the power is less than its competitors and not as good as it could be. The automated manual transmission shift characteristic is unique to the point of frustration, and not our favorite feature. Brake feel takes some adjustment due to the bottom-hinged pedal, though it functions to our satisfaction. Good feedback and a slow steering ratio complement the Smart's nimble demeanor, but cannot mask a somewhat rough highway ride. The Smart is fun to drive for passengers and onlookers alike.

Ride comfort is good compared to similarly short wheelbase cars in the segment. Road noise is minimal from its 15-inch wheels. Wind noise entering the cabin is on par with the competition despite its high profile. The wind does tend to push the car around the road, however. Gigantic doors take some effort to open but offer excellent ingress and egress as a trade-off.

Seat adjustability and control placement consider the ergonomic needs of all sizes of driver. High-intensity discharge lamps are uncommon in this segment. Combined with a huge front windshield these elements offer class-leading visibility. HVAC and audio systems are highly intuitive. Cargo size is minimal, even as compared to its peers. Puny dimensions are just unavoidable.

When it comes to tiny car styling, the Fortwo is our favorite. Interior materials are of surprisingly good quality. They don't feel flimsy or discount-quality as one might expect from a $15,000 car. Assembly is sound. We did not experience any squeaks or rattles.