16-7-2018: Seems to be a problem with the electric windows of Smart 453 ForTwo models sticking down. The windows can eventually be closed by incrementally 'nudging' them up a little at a time by short switch activations.
23-9-2018: Complaint that range of Smart Electric is not the claimed 99 miles. "In the 2 weeks we have had ours, we have never had an indicated range of more than 72 miles, and in reality, less. Temperatures have been moderate: between 12 and 18 degrees C, and we have been careful to minimise electric consumption from functions within the car (AC, radio, etc)."
3-10-2018: Report of manual transmission of 2016 Smart ForTwo "locking up" and refusing to go into gear. Even though it's a manual, it might ber necessary to use the footbrake to free the gearshift?
25-6-2019: Owner's experience of 2015 Smart ForTwo Premium turbo. From September 2018, difficulty filling with fuel. Sometimes petrol pump will 'cancel' after just 2-3 litres. After much fiddling, tank consumes an additional 15 litres. Dealership unable to replicate / diagnose. No response to the suggested potential for carbon filter blockage preventing ventilation. Leads to erratic brim to brim mpg of 26.7 to 90.8 Average during ownership = 51.4. September 2018. Gauge fault - sometimes goes down after filling up with petrol. Dealership performed a software update, only one recurrence since (May 2019). Autumn 2018 to present. White smoke on acceleration; most noticeable early in the day, but does not reliably correspond with cold conditions. No dealership feedback. Autumn 2018 to present. Intermittent mis-fire / 'hesitation' on positive acceleration. Occurs in middle of rev range. No dealership feedback. Autumn 2018 to present. Faint grinding noise, mostly observable at lower speeds. Diagnosed in June 2019 as faulty clutch (requires replacement). Mercedes Benz to contribute 51% of cost. Dealership initially refused to cover the remainder, but has since agreed after discussion. Autumn 2018 to present. Persistent suspicion of a 'blowing' exhaust; no dealership feedback.
16-7-2019: Report of 2017/67 Smart ForTwo 900 Turbo showing intermittent message when engine turned off of Orange eco stop sign and “malfunction see owners manual”. First the dealer charged battery, then replaced battery and now dealer tells owner it’s a known fault since Sept 2017, but won’t give him a copy of the Mercedes service bulletin stating that. Car purchased new in December 2017 and owner was not told about it. The message only started to appear from May 2019. "There is no fix apparently as they reckon it does not affect the running of the car and is just a timings issue." It also has started to very occasionally run self-test when owner turns it off (many warning lights and speedo flicks from left to right). Historically that only happened every time he started it. Now it occasionally does it when he turn it off. Ddealer tells me it’s normal.
Smart ForTwo Built 01/04/2015-31/05/2015 Number of cars involved 102 Manufacturer reference SRS1503 Problem Faulty software could cause the transmission control unit in vehicles with the dual clutch transmission to fail and the vehicle could roll away. Solution Recall affected cars and update the software.
25-8-2015: R/2015/147: Smart ForTwo: The software of the transmission control unit in vehicles with dual clutch transmission may not be correct. As a result, the operating lock of the transmission selector lever may not function as intended causing, in some circumstances, the vehicle to roll when not expected. Recall Affected vehicles and update transmission control software. VINs: WME4533422K030127 to WME4533422K037303; Build dates: 1-4-2015 to 31-5-2015.
25-8-2015: R/2015/146: Smart ForTwo: The engine control unit may not be programmed correctly. In rare cases it is possible for the acceleration or deceleration not to be as the driver’s request. Therefore a critical driving situation could occur. However, the power of the brake enables the driver to stop the vehicle at any time. Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and update the engine control unit software. VINs: WME4533422K019460 to WME4533422K036307; Build dates: 1-8-2014 to 31-5-2015
28-8-2015: R/2015/153: Smart ForTwo: The welding of the bracket for the torsion bar linkage at the shock absorber may not be to specification. It is therefore possible, with extremely high loads, for the weld seams of the bracket to tear. In this condition the driving characteristics of the vehicle will be adversely affected and the tyres could be compromised at large steering angles giving an increased risk of collision. Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the front shock absorbers. VINs: WME4533421K000433 to WME4533441K000767; Build dates: 1-4-2014 to 30-11-2015
25-8-2016: R/2015/170: Smart ForTwo: Due to an incorrectly designed bracket, Park may not engage or disengage as intended. Recall affected vehicles, check and if necessary replace the bracket. VINs: WME4533422K033191 to WME4533422K039068; Build dates 27-4-2015 to 27-7-2015.
25-8-2016: R/2015/144: Smart ForTwo: The operating lock in the gear selector lever module may not have been assembled correctly. Therefore it might be possible to operate the gear selector lever without pressing the brake pedal and without the key in position “ignition on”. If the vehicle is not properly secured with the parking brake, it could start rolling by shifting from “P” after pressing the release knob. Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and check the selector lever module and, if necessary replace it. VINs: WME4533422K019460 to WME4533422K020336; Build dates: 1-8-2014 to 31-3-2015.
25-09-2017: R/2017/245: HANDBRAKE MAY NOT HOLD. Due to possible loosening of the adjuster lock nut, parking brake lever travel may become excessive and the parking brake may not be fully applied. If the vehicle is not parked in accordance with handbook instructions it is possible the vehicle could move. Fix: On affected vehicles check and where necessary replace the adjuster lock nut. Build dates: 01-04-2014 to 31-01-2016.
July 2014
Smart Fortwo revealed
The 2014 Smart ForTwo (model 453) set a new benchmark in turning circles: at 6.95 m (from kerb to kerb) and 7.30 m (from wall to wall) it makes turning manoeuvres extremely simple.
Advanced assistance systems which were previously the reserve of higher classes of vehicle, further enhance safety and comfort. These include Crosswind Assist (standard), forward collision warning (option) and Lane Keeping Assist (option).
Two state-of-the-art three-cylinder engines will be available for the new smart models at the market launch: the naturally aspirated engine generates 71PS from a capacity of 999cc. The engine's ample torque from an engine speed as low as 1000 rpm (maximum: 91Nm at 2850 rpm) enables particularly economical driving in high gears, even in urban traffic.
Top of the range is the turbo engine rated at 90PS. The 898cc engine mobilises maximum torque of 135Nm at 2500 rpm. The totally new turbocharger features an electronically controlled wastegate which enables increased engine dynamics in conjunction with a sustainable reduction in fuel consumption. Another distinguishing feature is the automatic start/stop system.
Apart from the turbocharger, a whole range of other technical measures also contributes to the engine's excellent fuel efficiency and performance. These include variable swirl control and variable adjustment of the inlet valves. Another defining trait of the all-aluminium three-cylinder engine is the square bore/stroke ratio. A few months after the market launch, a basic petrol engine rated at60PS will extend the range.
Both transmission variants are also new for smart: customers can choose between a five-speed manual transmission and the twinamic six-speed dual clutch transmission.
Three equipment lines (passion, prime and proxy) and a wealth of optional items, some of which were previously the reserve of higher segments, make every smart fortwo or smart forfour a unique gem in its own right. Even in the entry-level version, both models offer a comprehensive scope of safety and comfort features. These include LED daytime driving lights, central locking with radio remote control, visual locking-verification signal and immobiliser, cruise control with limiter (variable speed limitation), exterior temperature indicator with frost warning, instrument cluster with monochrome LCD display and trip computer and electric windows in the front.
The smart forfour essentially has the same elements as the smart fortwo. It is fitted with an upward-opening single-section tailgate, however, to enable convenient loading of the lower luggage compartment.
New, rich exterior colours and around 40 combination options between bodypanels and tridion cell boost the brand's upbeat image. New colours now available include moon white (matt), lava orange (metallic) and hazel brown (metallic), which can be applied to contrast with new colours for the tridion cell such as cool silver (metallic) or lava orange (metallic).
The dashboard and the door centre panels feature extensive fabric coverings in the three lines. This high-quality textile surface is very pleasant to the touch and is reminiscent of the mesh inserts in modern sports shoes. The mesh structure is a USP in this vehicle segment.
The highly robust tridion passenger cell is able to prevent major deformation even in very severe collisions, thus helping to protect the occupants' space. The fuel tank is located safely outside the deformation zone in front of the rear axle.
January 2016
Fortwo edition white and edition black launched
Prices start at £12,360 and based on the prime trim line (which includes features such as heated leather seats), the special-edition models add the Urban Style and the Premium packages as standard.
These include three-spoke sports steering wheel with perforated leather, brushed stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs, 16-inch Y-spoke-alloy wheels in black, exhaust system with chrome-plated tailpipe, wheel-arch extensions with smart lettering, comfort package, rear parking assistance and smart media system including European satellite navigation. The fortwo special editions come with over £1500-worth of extra equipment – for only £895.
July 2016
Smart Fortwo Brabus Sport introduced
Smart has announced its latest updates to the range, including pricing for the new BRABUS sport line which is available from £13,810. The range now consists of the entry-level passion, followed by prime, prime sport and Brabus Sport.
The Fortwo coupe passion now comes with a fabric-covered roof, creating an even more striking look. At the other end of the range, the forfour night sky prime and prime sport models come with an electric fabric opening roof.
Prime models offer heated front seats; black leather upholstery with grey topstitching; dashboard instruments with clock and rev counter; sunglasses holders; and 15-inch five-spoke alloys painted black with a high sheen finish. prime sport adds a perforated leather sports steering wheel (with shift paddles on models equipped with the twinamic automatic transmission); sports suspension lowered by 10 mm; chrome exhaust finisher; and black 16-inch 8-Y-spoke alloy wheels.
Available only on models with the higher powered 90PS engine, the Brabus sport line includes matt grey 17-inch Brabus alloy wheels (the fortwo has 16/17-inch wheels (front/rear), Brabus front splitter and rear apron in black, Brabus stitching and logo on hand brake lever and gear shift, sports steering wheel and brushed stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs. Prices start at £13,810.
The Premium equipment line (now £845) includes a height-adjustable driver’s seat and steering wheel, electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors, rear parking sensors, smart media system and Mirror Link. Premium Plus (not available on passion models) adds ambient lighting, LED head lights and tail lights, fog lamps with cornering function, and rear view camera. Premium Plus is available for £1,345.
Forfour models can now also be specified with a no-cost option cadmium red metallic radiator grille. Customers can also choose from black, white, silver, grey, or yellow for no extra cost. The twinamic six-speed DCT gearbox is available across the range for £995.
September 2016
Smart Fortwo Brabus launched
Prices for the new Smart Brabus range start at £16,320.
The Brabus range uses the existing turbo-charged 898cc engine, with an increased power output of 109PS up from 90PS. In keeping with its sportier engine and exterior, it also comes with Brabus Performance sports suspension with specially adapted ESP, sports power steering, and a twinamic dual-clutch transmission with race start function.
Based on the existing passion model, the Brabus models add significant styling updates including Brabus badging, a sports steering wheel, Brabus seats with dinamica inserts, handbrake and gear shift with Brabus logo, Brabus sports pedals, 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels. Passion models come generously equipped as standard, including the smart audio system; automatic climate control; and cruise control.
For £845 Brabus customers can add the Premium package which includes height adjustable driver’s seat and steering wheel; heated and electrically operated door mirrors; rear parking sensors; and smart media system. The night sky option also adds a fabric folding sunroof for an additional £625 on smart forfour models only.
For an additional £3,170 customers can opt for the Brabus Xclusive model, which adds leather sports seats, a bi-fabric dashboard (leather and mesh), Brabus floor mat and Xclusive badging. Brabus Xclusive models come standard with the Premium Plus package (£1,345 on BRABUS models) which includes ambient lighting, rear view camera, automatic window wipers and lights, fog lamps with cornering function and a centre armrest.
May 2017
Smart Fortwo Pure launched
Priced from £9,995, the pure model line comes with a 1.0-litre petrol engine with an output of 71PS, mated to a five-speed manual transmission. It has a top speed of 94mph, and emits just 97g/km of CO2 while achieving a combined fuel economy of 67.3mpg combined.
Standard equipment includes 15-inch wheels, electric windows, remote locking, smart audio system, electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors, height-adjustable steering wheel and driver’s seat, black tridion cell and grille, black fabric upholstery and halogen headlamps with LED daytime running lamps. Automatic climate control is optionally available for £575.
June 2017
Smart Fortwo electric drive cabrio announced. Prime spec only, with satnav, etc. Priced from £16,420 after the £4,500 OLEV grant.
July 2017
Fortwo Disturbing London edition launch
Prices will start from £15,895. Based on the Brabus sport model line, the special edition features black paint with rose gold exterior and interior detailing. It comes with a 90PS turbocharged petrol engine and six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as standard.
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Huge improvement over previous Fortwo. Available with a manual gearbox as standard. All-new twin-clutch automatic. Cheap to run. Tiny turning circle.
Bigger Smart Forfour isn't much more expensive. 71PS needs to be worked hard out of town.
What is your car like to live with?
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