2017 smart fortwo Review

Name: 2017 smart fortwo Review
Brand: smart

2017 smart fortwo electric drive prime Convertible Exterior European Model Shown.

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$18,990

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smart fortwo model years

smart fortwo for Sale

smart fortwo types

Convertible
Hatchback
Electric

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Edmunds' Expert Review

byCameron Rogers^{Manager, News
Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Today, he leads the news team in developing cutting-edge news articles, opinion pieces and sneak peeks at upcoming vehicles. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at Edmunds include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).}

Pros

A short wheelbase and narrow width make the Fortwo a cinch to park
Electric Drive EV has quick, immediate acceleration at low speeds
Boasts a fun and distinctive interior design
Using a smartphone as the primary infotainment screen is innovative

Cons

Uncomfortable ride quality on rough roads
Dual-clutch automatic transmission is horrendously jerky
Large rear blind spots, especially with the convertible
Gasoline version requires premium fuel

What’s new

The 2017 Smart Fortwo is now available in a convertible body style (Smart calls it a Cabrio) to complement the existing Coupe. The Smart Electric Drive electric vehicle also enters the fold; it too can be ordered as a Coupe or Cabrio. Models with foglights also get cornering lights. A Brabus Sport package is also new for 2017. Later in the year, the Electric Drive's available touchscreen will be optional for the gas-powered car.

Vehicle overview

One of the most infuriating issues that anyone living in a big city will inevitably have to deal with is parking. Perhaps a sports car is splitting two stalls. A pickup is crammed into a spot marked "Compact." Or maybe the only opening is next to a sidewalk, and you aren't the world's greatest parallel parker. If any of these scenarios seem familiar, you might be drawn to the small footprint of the 2017 Smart Fortwo.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2017 smart fortwo pure 2dr Hatchback (.9L 3cyl Turbo 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.58 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio

$165/mo

$183/mo

Avg. Compact Car

Calculate my fuel costs

The Fortwo is instantly recognizable for its compact dimensions (competing subcompacts such as the Fiat 500 and Mini Cooper are even bigger). It's the ruler of the parking lot, slotting into spots too tight for normal cars. It's also easy to maneuver on the street, especially the Electric Drive EV, with the instant power afforded by its battery pack. But take it out of crowded cityscapes and much of its appeal is lost. Acceleration is extremely slow at highway speeds, the ride is unforgivably rough, and its blind spots are wide. Unless you absolutely need a Fortwo for its short length, most rivals are a better buy, even if they are slightly pricier.

Edmunds' Expert Rating

2.5 / 5

The 2017 Smart Fortwo, the smallest car available in the United States, was fully redesigned last year. It's a marked improvement over the previous-generation car. But even with this year's launch of the Electric Drive EV, the 2017 Smart Fortwo still fails to offer a real advantage over its subcompact competition.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions, although trim levels share many aspects. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2016 Smart Fortwo Proxy hatchback (0.9L 3-cyl. turbo; 6-speed automatic).

Scorecard

Overall	2.5 / 5
Driving	2.5
Comfort	2.0
Interior	2.5
Utility	3.5

Driving

2.5

Being tiny and lightweight affords some intrinsic fun, including a higher perception of speed and the tightest turning radius for a current production car (22.8 feet). Despite the improvements made, the Fortwo ultimately misses its mark of being a great car for the city.

Acceleration

3.5

The new three-cylinder engine has decent midrange power now that it's turbocharged, making it a more effective tool for threading traffic. It'll hit 60 mph in 10.1 seconds, which isn't fast but is slightly quicker than the class average. The EV feels quicker from a stoplight.

Braking

2.5

Stopping distance tops subcompact performance at 110 feet, but the experience is unsettling. Under hard braking, the front end wiggles and rear tires may skid, which is the last thing you want during panic stops. The transition from the EV's regenerative to mechanical brakes is not noticeable.

Steering

3.5

The Fortwo's steering is direct and responsive without being darty. It's surprisingly stable at higher speeds. There isn't much road feedback, but this isn't a performance car, so the tuning and effort are good for its purposes.

Handling

1.0

A high center of gravity, relatively narrow track and skinny tires conspire to keep handling abilities very low. This isn't a car that you can sling around turns. The Fortwo's stability control skews conservative for safety reasons, cutting power and applying brakes if it senses a whiff of danger.

Drivability

2.0

The new twin-clutch transmission dramatically improves drivability over the previous generation but still delivers subpar smoothness within the 1 to 20 mph range. This is unacceptable for a city car. The EV fares much better because it provides uninterrupted acceleration.

Comfort

2.0

You might assume the Fortwo gets dinged on comfort due to its smallness, but size doesn't factor in here. Seat comfort is compromised for aesthetics, and the suspension is much too stiff to provide any peace over rough city roads.

Seat comfort

2.0

The cushions offer decent padding but have minimal lateral and lumbar support, and a seam on the bottom cushion is noticeable and distracting. There's zero padding on the door armrest. The optional inboard armrest is worth getting.

Ride comfort

1.0

With an extra-short wheelbase, large road bumps are an adventure. Hit them with some speed, and you'd leave your seat if you weren't strapped to it. The ride is continuously busy because of the stiff suspension tuning. Not recommended for extended highway use.

Noise & vibration

2.0

Road and tire noise is mostly quelled, but the Fortwo's flat front nose pushes air like a mini bulldozer, which makes it sound windy outside at all times. In the cabriolet, noise is even more apparent. Hearing the engine work in back would be excusable if it made more pleasant sounds.

Interior

2.5

Some cost-saving measures, such as the nonadjustable cupholders molded into the hard plastic center console, are laughably obvious. But there are some redeeming qualities to the Fortwo's interior, such as generous passenger leg- and headroom and a cabin design that feels modern and fun.

Ease of use

3.0

The stereo is basic but easy to use, offering USB and auxiliary inputs to pipe your music through the cabin speakers. The climate controls are also straightforward and are done up in a creative and stylish fashion. Simple does work.

Getting in/getting out

3.0

Wide door openings and a low step-in make this tiny car surprisingly easy to get into. However, the doors are long, which might hamper your ability to easily open them in tighter parking spaces.

Roominess

2.5

The Fortwo creates a mirage of roominess inside. The steering column doesn't telescope, but the high roof and useful amount seat travel mean 6-foot drivers will fit relatively comfortably. But then another 6-footer climbs into the passenger seat and you realize how narrow the car really is.

Visibility

2.0

Thin front roof pillars and big glass provide good forward visibility, but the rearview mirror is narrow and big rear roof pillars create big blind spots. The Cabrio's tiny rear window makes it even harder to see out back; no rearview camera is available. Optional park assist systems recommended.

Quality

2.0

With the exception of the seats and headliner, not one surface in the cabin is soft to the touch. A chic and trendy-looking interior design makes the hard plastic appear less cheap, but it's hard to pick out anything of real quality in this cabin.

Utility

3.5

You don't buy a Smart expecting much in the way of storage solutions, but the Fortwo does the best with what it's got. The pull-out drawer from the center console is clever, as are the storage nets behind the seats. The bottom edge of the soft top folds up to increase the cargo opening.

Small-item storage

3.5

There are two small central cupholders and a decent-sized holder in each door. There's a net behind the seats that will carry light items just fine. A small tray slides out from the central console on the passenger side, which is good for keys, coins and other small things.

Cargo space

3.0

The passenger seat cleverly folds flat for longer cargo items, and 9.2 cubic feet of trunk space eclipses the Mini Cooper's 8.7 cubic feet. The Cabrio's cargo area measures 8.9 cubic feet, decreasing to 6.7 cubes when the top is rolled down. Only small convertible sports cars offer less.

Technology

The free Cross Connect app that turns your phone into an audio and navigation controller is an inventive way to integrate touchscreen controls with a very basic radio setup. The 7-inch touchscreen is a worthy upgrade, but it won't be available until well into the 2017 model year.

2017 smart fortwo models

The 2017 Smart Fortwo is a pint-sized city car with seating for two (get it?) and a surprising amount of passenger space inside. Available as a coupe or convertible, its rear wheels are driven by your choice of a gasoline engine or an electric drivetrain. The gas-burner is a turbocharged 0.9-liter three-cylinder (89 horsepower, 100 pound-feet) paired to either a five-speed manual transmission or a six-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Electric Drive's 17.6-kWh lithium-ion battery pack and 60-kW motor (81 hp) drive the wheels directly. The gas Fortwo comes in Pure (Coupe only), Passion, Prime and Proxy trim levels, while the Electric Drive is available in Pure, Passion and Prime trims.

The Fortwo's base Pure trim includes 15-inch steel wheels with plastic covers, LED daytime running lights, cruise control, power windows, cloth upholstery, automatic climate control, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and a two-speaker sound system with a CD player, auxiliary input and a USB port.

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.

Stepping up to the Passion trim adds alloy wheels, black exterior trim, heated and power-adjustable mirrors, contrasting interior upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a height-adjustable driver seat, an additional storage compartment in the center console and a retractable cargo cover.

The Prime further dresses up the Smart with silver exterior trim, foglights, cornering lights, a panoramic glass roof, automatic headlights and wipers, leather upholstery, heated seats and interior ambient lighting.

The range-topping Proxy trim adds 16-inch wheels, white exterior trim, a sport suspension, alloy pedals, shift paddles (for the automatic transmission only) and an eight-speaker JBL sound system (six speakers for the Cabrio).

Available for Passion, Prime and Proxy models is the Brabus Sport package. It includes the Proxy's sport suspension and shift paddles and adds a stiffer anti-roll bar, gray-painted wheels, staggered-width performance tires, and unique interior and exterior styling elements. A separate package bundles a rearview camera with rear parking sensors. Individual options include a forward collision warning system, imitation-leather (premium vinyl) upholstery and a phone cradle that positions smartphones in the middle of the dash and allows it to function as a touchscreen controller. A conventional touchscreen will be available as an option later in the model year for gas-powered models.

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

3.5/5Above Average

#21 out of 27 among Subcompact Cars

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

^{The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the smart fortwo from 2008-2022.}

$540/yr

vs. $416/yr
for Average Subcompact Car

Frequency

^{The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).}

1.42x/yr

vs. 1.22x/yr
for Average Subcompact Car

Severity

^{The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).}

9.1%

vs. 10.1%
for Average Subcompact Car

powered by RepairPal ^{Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.}

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2017 smart fortwo.

5 (57%)

4 (26%)

3 (4%)

2 (4%)

1 (9%)

4.2

23 reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

Great Upgrade From 2012

Simply Blue, 03/13/2017

2016 smart fortwo prime 2dr Hatchback (.9L 3cyl Turbo 5M)

*Update 2018: I still love this car. There have been no maintenance issues, and it has been fun and reliable to drive. Since first writing this review, one of my best friends and a family member bought smart cars as well. They liked my car so much that they wanted their own! I originally had a 2012 Smart Fortwo Pure, which was a great little car but with some very notable … downsides. To name a few, the old transmission was less than great, it was a tad cramped and the Pure in particular lacked some modern car features that I would have liked. After hearing about the new transmission, cross-wind control and other slew of upgrades, I decided to check out the 2016. A year later, I couldn't be happier with my purchase. I always loved the size and city maneuverability of the Smart Car, but now that comes with a much more substantial vehicle. I purchased the automatic 6-speed dual clutch transmission, and though I would not call any Smart Car a speedster, the new transmission is much smoother. The boost from the turbo is also a nice addition, making the car feel swift and zippy. The car now has the speed it needs to pass other cars on the road with ease. The cross-wind control also makes those windy days a non-issue, compared to the shaky windy day drives in the older model. The new headlights are bright and clear, with the fog-lights doing as desired in blizzard conditions or foggy weather. Due to the narrow wheels and short wheel-base, I have never had any trouble in the snow, unless I blatantly drive into a pile that I know might bottom the little thing out. Even then, I've never actually gotten completely stuck in snow drifts, though I don't consciously drive through anything that looks excessive to the eye. The stability control does a good job at managing the rate at which the wheels are spinning, so you can pull out of slick spots. As for the interior, the extra width makes a noticeable difference as well. My dad is a large man, and he can sit in the new model without us feeling cramped in the slightest. The bluetooth on the stereo system is nice, and pairs well with the iPhone holding attachment on the entertainment system. I opted for the model with the upgraded sound system, boasting 7 speakers and a little subwoofer. I am pleased with the sound quality, and those riding along with me are impressed with the kick that the audio provides. I should note that I do a lot of highway driving, so cruise control does a good job at maintaining MPG. The 2016 also feels much more sure footed on the highways than the 2012 did. I wanted a peppy edgier looking small car for city driving and occasional long trips, and I feel like the new smart car has met all of my personal wants. If you are in the market for a small car, this comes highly recommended by me. The most glaring issues of the past models have been ironed out, and the Smart Fortwo has grown up to be something that more Americans will be pleased with.

Not just a city car

RLLets, 09/03/2017

2016 smart fortwo passion 2dr Hatchback (.9L 3cyl Turbo 5M)

- for the size car it's very roomy, feels like a full size car - for the size car there's good storage space in back - cute outside look and shape - unusual and fun inside decor - although marketed as city car, it does great on the highway - very bad turbo lag however it has great acceleration - turbo lag is a danger in situations where one is depending on smooth instantaneous …

Tiny Car with a Great Heart

William Strange, 10/02/2016

2016 smart fortwo passion 2dr Hatchback (.9L 3cyl Turbo 5M)

This is my second Smart, my first was a 2008 Passion. I had it for 8 years and when I traded it in it had 195,000 miles. The only parts I ever replaced were normal maintenance parts, (front brake shoes, plugs and tires. I've had my 2016 Passion for about a week and the upgrades are amazing. I little more room inside, definitely pepper, transmission shifts much more smoothly, and the …

a great little car

tbab, 10/21/2018

2017 smart fortwo prime 2dr Hatchback (.9L 3cyl Turbo 5M)

i've driven the car from New Mexico and back. it's a great road car with plenty of acceleration and stamina on hills. the gas mileage is excellent on the highway. a perfect car for one person.

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2017 smart fortwo, so we've included reviews for other years of the fortwo since its last redesign.

See all 23 reviews of the smart fortwo

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2017 fortwo Highlights

Type:

Convertible

Trim:

passion

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$18,900
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	34 MPG
Cost to Drive	$168/month
Seating	2 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	8.9 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the fortwo models:

Proximity Warning Function: This optional feature helps avoid collisions by alerting the driver if the Fortwo is approaching the car in front too quickly.
Rear Park Assist: Parking is made easier with these rear sensors, which sound an alert when the Fortwo approaches an object while backing up.
Crosswind Assist: This standard feature detects if the Fortwo is being pushed around in its lane by strong crosswinds and applies brakes to keep it straight.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver4 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
PassengerNot Rated
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back SeatNot Rated
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover14.7%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Not Tested
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Not Tested