Bigger, Smarter, Forfour

The interior and technology makes the driving experience even better.

The light coming in through the panoramic roof brings a happy, dynamic mood into the car.

The new Smart does not have a CD player, but who cares?

Bluetooth, aux input and USB are enough and are best suited to the market the brand is targeting.

It might be small, but it’s packed with big features such as auto start/ stop, a feature not many cars in this segment enjoy today.

Distance warning also helps the driver keep a safe following distance to avoid an accident.

It also comes with rain sensors for auto wiping, cruise control and lane monitor control to alert the driver when the car drifts.

I also liked the modern and retro look, the feel of the air-conditioning controls and the parking sensors.

This small car also comes with 10 JBL speakers, which turn it into a miniclub.

One thing everyone will agree with is a car with so many advanced technology features, but without central locking, is not good, especially in Joburg.

Both the Smart Fortwo and Forfour come with a 3-cylinder 999cc petrol engine producing a modest 52kW, with a five-speed gearbox.

There’s also a 66kW automatic transmission with turbo available for those who care about power.

Smart claims 4.2l/100km combined, but I averaged 6.9l/100km with city driving and about 6.1l/100km on the freeway.

The 185-litre boot space is not too shabby, however; with back seats folded this tiny car turns into a mini-van, giving you 975l.

Though there isn’t much legroom for adults in the back, the car didn’t feel small and squashed.

My wife and two kids with their car seats fitted Iike a glove and I sat comfortably in the driver’s seat.

With passengers, one can feel the Smart struggling on a flat road and worse on an incline, but the Smart Forfour redeems itself when it comes to manoeuvring in awkward parking spaces.

The steering wheel is light, making parking in tight spots a walk in the park.

Driving the Smart Car made me pay attention to the competi- tion that exists in this small-car segment.

With the base model price of just under R180 000 and the topspec Smart Forfour Proxy going for R212 400, the price is not bad value, considering all its features.

It’s not a Toyota or a VW, which means your car will not be an easy target for criminals. I guess the old sayings proved true after all: never say never and don’t criticise what you haven’t experienced.

The new Smart Forfour.