15 Nov 06
The new Fortwo's styling has changed little on the outside, the company going more for evolution than revolution - understandable since the one-box design was always revolutionary.
True, the company does make claims for a more 'muscular' look thanks to a wider track (11mm) and chunkier tyres, but does the addition of just over a centimetre really make a car more 'athletic'? We're sceptical.
Changes to the front include new headlights and nose, featuring a new air intake, while at the back there's a fresh wing and apron, as well as a reduction in the number of individual lights from six to four. It also loses those wrap-around rear side windows, replaced by two smoked plastic panels.
The extra 195mm in the length of the car has been fairly evenly distributed, with an extra 55mm added to the wheelbase, 72mm to the front overhang and 68mm on the rear overhang. Again, these seem like barely perceptible increases, but if you look closely, while the silhouette has been retained, it does seem different: 'masculine' might be pushing it, but there is a whiff of greater solidity.
Inside, the original dash console has gone, replaced by a straighter version to meet US crash regulations. The two silky-sheened seats get integral belts and more contoured sides for better lateral support, and can be trimmed in leather if you wish.
You get a CD/radio as standard, or option up to a changer or a whole new sound system with a subwoofer and MP3 connection (important when 85% of Smart owners are under the age of 40).
