09 Jul 07
The CDI version has the world's smallest direct-injection diesel engine, a 799cc triple that gives average consumption of around 85mpg and gives an equally astonishing carbon dioxide figure of just 88g/km. That, says Smart, is the best in the world for a production car with an internal combustion engine.
What's the catch? It's not the noise. Even if you go for the cabriolet and drive around with the roof folded back, it doesn't sound intrusively loud. Yes, you can tell it's not the petrol version, but it's fine.
No, the catch is that it's darned slow. Top speed is 84mph, which is OK, but the acceleration is dire. The 0-62mph time of 19.8 seconds gives you the idea. The explanation is in the gearing: it's set up for economy, not for acceleration and, if left to its own devices, will engage fifth gear before you've hit 30mph. You can override it with the paddleshifters, but then your consumption would suffer, so what's the point?
Even if Smart decides not the build it in right-hand drive form, that's much less of an issue in a Fortwo than it would be in a more conventional car. When you're sat on the left, you're pretty close to where you would be if you were sat on the right, and in some situations being close to the kerb is actually an advantage.
