2008 Smart ForTwo: Road Test
2008 Smart ForTwo ▼
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- MSRP: $11,590 - $16,590
- Invoice: -
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Our road test for the 2008 Smart ForTwo includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Smart ForTwo from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Smart ForTwo, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Smart ForTwo help you decide if a 2008 Smart ForTwo is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Passion coupe | Passion cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | 3 |
No opportunity to test Pure coupe. Smart pegs the ForTwo's 0-60 mph acceleration at 12.8 seconds; Consumer Guide testing suggests ForTwo is slightly quicker than that figure. Still, acceleration is sluggish from a stop and is plagued by annoying bogging and surging at every shift whether transmission is in manual or automatic mode. Over time, our testers learned to shift in the manual mode for optimal smoothness and acceleration, though the final results were still less than impressive. ForTwo's small engine struggles to provide adequate highway passing power.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Passion coupe | Passion cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 8 |
In Consumer Guide testing, ForTwo models averaged 38.8 mpg. Smart recommends premium-grade gas for all ForTwo models.
RIDE QUALITY
| Passion coupe | Passion cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 4.7 |
Stiff and choppy over all but glass-smooth roads, with sharp bumps and expansion cracks causing abrupt vertical motions.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Passion coupe | Passion cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.1 |
Agile around town; tiny dimensions help provide outstanding close-quarters maneuverability. Light, accurate steering contributes to an almost sporty demeanor, though some testers complained of tippy sensations in corners. Note that ForTwo is especially susceptible to highway cross-wind wander.
QUIETNESS
| Passion coupe | Passion cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4.1 |
Never serene. Road noise is relatively well-muffled, but wind rush is pronounced at highway speeds. Engine note is always audible and rises to a loud groan under acceleration. Top-down conversation is possible in convertible at highway speeds.
CONTROLS
| Passion coupe | Passion cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
Gauges easy to see; speedometer is unobstructed, and optional tachometer and clock are situated above the dash in free-standing pods. Controls are simple and well laid out. Convertible's soft top can be retracted to any position at any speed, a neat feature. However, side roof bars must be manually removed and stowed in tailgate compartment for full open-air feel.
DETAILS
| Passion coupe | Passion cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
Cabin materials are solid and well-assembled, and switchgear has quality feel, but overall ambiance is budget, with lots of hard plastic and very few padded surfaces. No opportunity to test with available leather seats.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Passion coupe | Passion cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Surprising headroom and legroom for six-footers, but narrow cabin means two adults ride almost shoulder-to-shoulder. Seats are supportive, with good side bolstering. Upright driving position prevents occupants from feeling dwarfed by surrounding traffic. Great visibility all-around. Tall build and wide doors make for easy entry and exit. Lack of a tilt steering column may compromise comfort for some drivers.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Passion coupe | Passion cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | 3.2 |
(No rear seating.)
CARGO ROOM
| Passion coupe | Passion cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 1 | 4.5 |
Meager overall. Rear cargo area is big enough for about 6 grocery bags. Heat from the rear-mounted engine makes the cargo floor warm to the touch on long trips. Tiny glovebox offers barely enough space for an owner's manual, though assorted cubbies offer some small-item flexibility.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Passion coupe | Passion cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 6.7 |
The Smart ForTwo is a radical design statement that favors minuscule exterior dimensions, tight-quarters maneuverability, and fuel efficiency over pleasant road manners and passenger or cargo space. ForTwo offers unparalleled dexterity in congested urban commuting, but its relatively high price and compromised utility will likely limit its appeal for many shoppers.
Total Score
| Passion coupe | Passion cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 43 | 42 | 55 |
Total Score: 43
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