The 2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive is a compact, two-seater electric city car. As part of the Smart brand's evolution towards electric mobility, this model year solidified its commitment to zero-emission urban transport. Available as a coupe and a cabriolet, it was offered in a single, well-equipped trim. Its popularity stems from its incredibly small footprint, making parking and navigating tight city streets effortless, coupled with its eco-friendly electric powertrain.
The Good
This Smart ED offers unparalleled urban agility and a breezy, simple driving experience. Its electric power is smooth and responsive for city speeds, while its compact design is undeniably charming and incredibly easy to park. For the eco-conscious, its zero emissions are a significant draw, and for the practical, its low running costs are a major plus.
The Bad
Owners should be aware of its limited electric range, making it less suitable for long-distance travel. The small battery capacity means frequent charging may be necessary. Additionally, its performance is strictly for urban environments, and its ride can be a bit firm over rougher surfaces.
2017 Smart fortwo electric drive: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: Electric motor
- Horsepower: 80 hp
- Torque: 118 lb-ft
- Fuel Economy (MPGe): 125 City / 98 Highway / 111 Combined (EPA estimated)
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 11.5 seconds
- Top Speed: 81 mph
- Battery Capacity: 17.6 kWh lithium-ion
- Range: EPA estimated 58 miles
- Charging Time: Approximately 2.5 hours with a Level 2 charger (0-80%)
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable
- Body Styles: Coupe and Cabriolet
- Key Trims: One standard, highly equipped trim
- Standard Features:
- Automatic climate control
- Power windows
- LED daytime running lights
- Smart Radio (Bluetooth audio streaming, USB input)
- Navigation system (optional)
- Heated seats
- Leatherette upholstery
- SmartCross® electronic stability program
- Crosswind assist
- Air conditioning with pollen filter
- Keyless entry
- Power steering
- Regenerative braking system
- Remote pre-conditioning (via smartphone app)
- Optional exterior color choices and interior accents
2017 Smart fortwo electric drive Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2017 |
| Make | Smart |
| Model | fortwo electric drive |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Coupe |
| Category | Sports Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | HAMBACH |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 61.20 inches |
| Overall Length | 106.10 inches |
| Overall Width | 65.50 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 73.70 inches |
| Standard Seating | 2 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | M780 |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | 1-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 1-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $16,140 |
| Invoice Price | $15,010 |
| Delivery Charges | $750 |
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What Problems Does the 2017 Smart fortwo electric drive Have?
The 2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive generally exhibits good reliability for its intended urban use, but like many EVs of its era, there are a few points to consider. Frequently reported issues tend to be minor, often related to the infotainment system or minor electrical glitches, which are not uncommon in early-adopter electric vehicles. Some owners have reported occasional issues with the battery management system, though widespread severe battery degradation is not a common complaint for this specific model year. It's important to note that the 2017 model year saw a significant update to the electric drive system compared to previous generations, which generally improved its performance and efficiency. Recalls for the 2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive have been infrequent and typically addressed minor safety concerns, such as potential issues with airbag inflators or software glitches. For long-term reliability, the core electric powertrain is considered robust. However, the smaller battery pack inherently has a finite lifespan and will eventually see reduced capacity, as with all EV batteries. Maintenance habits play a crucial role; regular servicing and proper charging practices (avoiding constant deep discharges or full charges to 100% when not needed) can extend battery life. Due to its niche market and limited production numbers compared to mainstream EVs, the availability of specialized repair knowledge and parts might be a consideration for long-term ownership outside of major urban centers.
How long will the 2017 Smart fortwo electric drive last?
Based on owner data and typical usage patterns, the 2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive is often used as a second vehicle or for short urban commutes. Owners commonly report them being driven between 5,000 and 10,000 miles per year. With diligent maintenance, which for an EV primarily involves checking brakes, tires, and fluids, these vehicles can comfortably last 10-15 years or accumulate well over 100,000 miles. The electric powertrain is generally durable. However, the battery's longevity is a key factor; while designed to last many years, its capacity will naturally decrease over time and with mileage. The compact size and simplicity of the Smart Fortwo also mean fewer complex mechanical parts to fail compared to larger, more traditional vehicles, contributing to its potential for long-term service.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive comes with a decent suite of technology and safety features for its class and time. Standard tech includes the Smart Radio system, which offers Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, along with a USB port for device charging. While a touchscreen wasn't standard, a simple interface with physical buttons controlled the audio and vehicle settings. For navigation, a Garmin-based navigation system was an optional upgrade, often integrated into the Smart Radio unit.
Driver-assistance features were fairly basic but functional for urban driving. Standard equipment includes Crosswind Assist, which helps stabilize the vehicle during strong side winds, and an electronic stability program (SmartCross®) to help maintain control. Hill Start Assist is also standard.
Safety is a priority for Smart, and the 2017 Fortwo Electric Drive is equipped with multiple airbags, including front and side airbags for the driver and passenger, and knee airbags. The body structure is designed for safety, despite its small size, utilizing a high-strength steel safety cell.
Crash-test ratings from organizations like the NHTSA and IIHS for this specific model year and trim can be difficult to find, as smaller vehicles often have different testing protocols or are not tested as rigorously as larger, more common models. However, Smart vehicles generally aim to meet or exceed safety standards. Optional features often included premium audio upgrades, upgraded interior trim, and more advanced climate control functions. Remote pre-conditioning via a smartphone app was a particularly useful feature, allowing owners to heat or cool the cabin before entering.
Driver-assistance features were fairly basic but functional for urban driving. Standard equipment includes Crosswind Assist, which helps stabilize the vehicle during strong side winds, and an electronic stability program (SmartCross®) to help maintain control. Hill Start Assist is also standard.
Safety is a priority for Smart, and the 2017 Fortwo Electric Drive is equipped with multiple airbags, including front and side airbags for the driver and passenger, and knee airbags. The body structure is designed for safety, despite its small size, utilizing a high-strength steel safety cell.
Crash-test ratings from organizations like the NHTSA and IIHS for this specific model year and trim can be difficult to find, as smaller vehicles often have different testing protocols or are not tested as rigorously as larger, more common models. However, Smart vehicles generally aim to meet or exceed safety standards. Optional features often included premium audio upgrades, upgraded interior trim, and more advanced climate control functions. Remote pre-conditioning via a smartphone app was a particularly useful feature, allowing owners to heat or cool the cabin before entering.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2017 Smart fortwo electric drive Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive had an MSRP that typically started in the mid-$20,000s, before any potential federal or local electric vehicle tax credits. These incentives significantly lowered the out-the-door price for many buyers. On the used market, prices for the 2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive have depreciated considerably, as is common with niche electric vehicles. You can find examples ranging from $8,000 to $15,000, depending heavily on mileage, condition, and whether it's the coupe or cabriolet model. Factors affecting resale value include battery health, a relatively limited electric range compared to newer EVs, and the overall desirability of such a small urban car. Well-maintained examples with lower mileage will command a premium, while higher-mileage vehicles will be priced more aggressively.
2017 Smart fortwo electric drive Cost of Ownership
The 2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive is generally very economical to own. Insurance costs are typically moderate, often comparable to other small cars, though specific rates depend on your driving record and location. Fuel costs are exceptionally low due to its electric powertrain; charging at home is significantly cheaper than gasoline. Maintenance is minimal, with no oil changes required and fewer moving parts than a traditional car. Routine checks of brakes and tires are the main expenses. Repair costs can be moderate, especially for specialized EV components if needed, but overall, its simplicity contributes to lower long-term costs. This vehicle is highly economical to own, making it an affordable choice for urban commuting.
2017 Smart fortwo electric drive Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Electric
Fuel Capacity
8.70 gallons
City Mileage
31 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
39 miles/gallon
2017 Smart fortwo electric drive Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2017 Smart fortwo electric drive Insurance
Insurance for a 2017 Smart fortwo electric drive is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Coupe with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2017 Smart fortwo electric drive Compare to Other Coupe?
The 2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive occupies a unique niche, making direct comparisons challenging. Its primary rivals were few and far between, often limited to other microcars or early, very basic electric city cars.
Performance: In terms of performance, the Smart ED is optimized for city speeds. Rivals like the Fiat 500e offered a slightly more engaging driving experience and a bit more power, though still focused on urban agility. Mainstream EVs like the Nissan Leaf or Chevrolet Bolt offered significantly more range and better acceleration, but at a higher price point and in a larger package.
Features: The Smart ED was reasonably well-equipped for its size, offering modern conveniences like Bluetooth and optional navigation. However, compared to contemporaries like the Fiat 500e or even a well-optioned compact gasoline car, it lacked advanced infotainment systems or a wider array of driver-assistance technologies. Larger EVs from this era offered a more comprehensive tech experience.
Reliability: Reliability for the Smart ED is generally good for its core electric components, though its niche status can make specialized repairs more difficult. The Fiat 500e has had some reported issues with its transmission and battery cooling system. Mainstream EVs from Nissan and Chevrolet, while having their own quirks, benefit from broader service networks and more readily available parts.
Price: The Smart ED was competitively priced, especially when incentives were considered, making it one of the more affordable new EVs at the time. Used, it remains a budget-friendly option. The Fiat 500e was similarly priced when new. Later model EVs like the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt were considerably more expensive.
Alternatives:
* Fiat 500e (if available in your market): Offers a similar quirky urban style with a slightly better range and more engaging driving dynamics, though potentially less space.
* **Used Nissan Leaf (2011-2017):** While a larger car, it offers significantly more range and practicality for a similar used price, though with less distinctive styling.
* **Used Mitsubishi i-MiEV:** Even smaller and with a more rudimentary interior, but often cheaper on the used market and purely electric.
For those prioritizing extreme maneuverability and ease of parking above all else, the 2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive is a compelling choice. However, if range, advanced features, or a more conventional driving experience are priorities, other used EVs or even efficient gasoline compacts might be better suited.
Performance: In terms of performance, the Smart ED is optimized for city speeds. Rivals like the Fiat 500e offered a slightly more engaging driving experience and a bit more power, though still focused on urban agility. Mainstream EVs like the Nissan Leaf or Chevrolet Bolt offered significantly more range and better acceleration, but at a higher price point and in a larger package.
Features: The Smart ED was reasonably well-equipped for its size, offering modern conveniences like Bluetooth and optional navigation. However, compared to contemporaries like the Fiat 500e or even a well-optioned compact gasoline car, it lacked advanced infotainment systems or a wider array of driver-assistance technologies. Larger EVs from this era offered a more comprehensive tech experience.
Reliability: Reliability for the Smart ED is generally good for its core electric components, though its niche status can make specialized repairs more difficult. The Fiat 500e has had some reported issues with its transmission and battery cooling system. Mainstream EVs from Nissan and Chevrolet, while having their own quirks, benefit from broader service networks and more readily available parts.
Price: The Smart ED was competitively priced, especially when incentives were considered, making it one of the more affordable new EVs at the time. Used, it remains a budget-friendly option. The Fiat 500e was similarly priced when new. Later model EVs like the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt were considerably more expensive.
Alternatives:
* Fiat 500e (if available in your market): Offers a similar quirky urban style with a slightly better range and more engaging driving dynamics, though potentially less space.
* **Used Nissan Leaf (2011-2017):** While a larger car, it offers significantly more range and practicality for a similar used price, though with less distinctive styling.
* **Used Mitsubishi i-MiEV:** Even smaller and with a more rudimentary interior, but often cheaper on the used market and purely electric.
For those prioritizing extreme maneuverability and ease of parking above all else, the 2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive is a compelling choice. However, if range, advanced features, or a more conventional driving experience are priorities, other used EVs or even efficient gasoline compacts might be better suited.
Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Smart fortwo electric drive a Good Coupe?
The 2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive is ideal for city dwellers who need an ultra-compact vehicle for short commutes, errand running, and navigating congested urban environments. It's perfect for those who value unparalleled parking ease and a simple, low-cost-to-run electric mode of transport.
It is worth buying primarily in the used market, where it offers an accessible entry point into electric vehicle ownership. Buying new was a niche proposition. Focus on well-maintained examples with lower mileage to maximize battery life and overall longevity. It's not suitable for those who frequently travel long distances or require significant cargo space. For its intended use case as a city-specific EV, it remains a unique and practical, albeit niche, choice.
It is worth buying primarily in the used market, where it offers an accessible entry point into electric vehicle ownership. Buying new was a niche proposition. Focus on well-maintained examples with lower mileage to maximize battery life and overall longevity. It's not suitable for those who frequently travel long distances or require significant cargo space. For its intended use case as a city-specific EV, it remains a unique and practical, albeit niche, choice.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma