The 2014 Smart fortwo is a subcompact, two-seater city car known for its exceptionally small footprint. Part of the second generation (2007-2015), it typically comes in coupe or cabriolet body styles. Key trims included Pure, Passion, and Electric Drive. New pricing generally ranged from $12,000 to $28,000, depending on trim and powertrain. Its standout feature is unparalleled maneuverability and ease of parking in dense urban environments, making it popular for city dwellers seeking ultimate practicality and minimal space requirements.
The Good
The 2014 Smart fortwo excels in efficiency and urban maneuverability, offering incredibly easy parking and low fuel costs. Its distinctive design makes an emotional statement, while its practical small size appeals to city commuters. Despite its compact nature, comfort is surprisingly adequate for two, and it delivers good value as an economical urban transporter.
The Bad
Weaknesses for the 2014 Smart fortwo include limited highway performance, a somewhat unrefined automated manual transmission, and stiff ride quality. Interior space is cramped for larger individuals, cargo capacity is minimal, and its stability at higher speeds or in crosswinds can be a concern. Reliability can be inconsistent.
2014 Smart fortwo: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 1.0-liter MIVEC 3-cylinder gasoline engine (naturally aspirated)
- Electric Drive (ED) model: Permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor - Horsepower:
- Gasoline: 70 hp
- Electric Drive: 74 hp - Torque:
- Gasoline: 68 lb-ft
- Electric Drive: 96 lb-ft - Transmission:
- Gasoline: 5-speed automated manual transmission (AMT)
- Electric Drive: Single-speed direct-drive transmission - Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- Gasoline (Coupe/Cabrio): 34 mpg city / 38 mpg highway / 36 mpg combined
- Electric Drive (MPGe): 122 MPGe city / 93 MPGe highway / 107 MPGe combined
- Electric Drive Range: Approximately 68 miles (combined city/highway) - 0-60 MPH Acceleration:
- Gasoline: Approximately 12.8 - 13.0 seconds (Note: Performance-oriented driving is not its forte)
- Electric Drive: Approximately 11.5 seconds - Towing Capacity:
- Not rated or recommended for towing. - Trim-Level Features:
- Pure (Base Gasoline): 15-inch steel wheels, power windows, remote keyless entry, leather-wrapped steering wheel, AM/FM CD player with two speakers.
- Passion (Mid-Range Gasoline): Adds 15-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning with automatic climate control, a panoramic glass roof (coupe), power heated mirrors, an integrated multi-function display, and a CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input.
- Electric Drive (Base ED): Similar to Passion features but with electric powertrain, unique instrumentation, and battery charging capabilities. Options include a 240V/80A onboard charger for faster charging.
- Passion Electric Drive (Premium ED): Builds on Electric Drive with additional comfort and convenience features, similar to the gasoline Passion trim, often including navigation or premium audio as options.
- Common Options: Heated seats, navigation system, upgraded audio systems, various interior trim packages, different alloy wheel designs, sport packages (including paddle shifters for gasoline models), fog lamps, and custom exterior color options.
2014 Smart fortwo Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2014 |
| Make | Smart |
| Model | fortwo |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 2-Door Coupe |
| Type | Coupe |
| Category | Sports Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | HAMBACH |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 949.82 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1149.86 kg |
| Overall Height | 154.18 cm |
| Overall Length | 269.49 cm |
| Overall Width | 155.96 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 186.69 cm |
| Standard Seating | 2 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | Electric |
| Engine Size | 1L |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 |
| Transmission | automatique |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $25,000 USD |
| Invoice Price | $23,250 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $750 USD |
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What Problems Does the 2014 Smart fortwo Have?
The 2014 Smart fortwo, particularly the gasoline model, has several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns. A prominent issue is the unrefined automated manual transmission (AMT). Owners often complain about its jerky shifts, slow response, and general lack of smoothness, which can make urban driving less pleasant. This isn't necessarily a "problem" in the sense of a malfunction, but a design characteristic that many find undesirable.
Engine-related issues, though less common for the 2014 model specifically than earlier years, can include oil consumption and occasional sensor failures (like oxygen sensors) which can lead to check engine lights. The 1.0-liter engine, while generally robust if maintained, can develop minor leaks over time.
Suspension components are known to wear out, especially in areas with rough roads, leading to noises and a harsher ride. Bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers may require replacement sooner than in larger, more robust vehicles.
Electrical system quirks are also reported, including issues with window regulators, central locking, and occasionally the radio or infotainment system. While often minor, these can be frustrating.
For the Electric Drive (ED) model, the main concern is often the degradation of battery capacity over many years and charging cycles, which is common for all EVs but can impact the already modest range of the fortwo ED. However, the electric powertrain itself is generally very reliable, often surpassing the gasoline engine in long-term durability for its core components.
Regarding recalls, owners should always check the NHTSA database for any open recalls specific to their VIN. For the 2014 model year, recalls might include issues like potential loss of power while driving (related to software or electrical components) or problems with specific accessories. For instance, some Smart fortwo models across various years have had recalls for steering column issues or specific airbag components. It's crucial for prospective buyers to ensure all recall work has been completed.
Engine-related issues, though less common for the 2014 model specifically than earlier years, can include oil consumption and occasional sensor failures (like oxygen sensors) which can lead to check engine lights. The 1.0-liter engine, while generally robust if maintained, can develop minor leaks over time.
Suspension components are known to wear out, especially in areas with rough roads, leading to noises and a harsher ride. Bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers may require replacement sooner than in larger, more robust vehicles.
Electrical system quirks are also reported, including issues with window regulators, central locking, and occasionally the radio or infotainment system. While often minor, these can be frustrating.
For the Electric Drive (ED) model, the main concern is often the degradation of battery capacity over many years and charging cycles, which is common for all EVs but can impact the already modest range of the fortwo ED. However, the electric powertrain itself is generally very reliable, often surpassing the gasoline engine in long-term durability for its core components.
Regarding recalls, owners should always check the NHTSA database for any open recalls specific to their VIN. For the 2014 model year, recalls might include issues like potential loss of power while driving (related to software or electrical components) or problems with specific accessories. For instance, some Smart fortwo models across various years have had recalls for steering column issues or specific airbag components. It's crucial for prospective buyers to ensure all recall work has been completed.
How long will the 2014 Smart fortwo last?
Based on owner data and typical maintenance, a well-maintained 2014 Smart fortwo (gasoline) can reasonably expect to last between 100,000 to 150,000 miles, or 10-12 years, before significant repairs become uneconomical. The core engine and transmission can endure, but regular oil changes are crucial. Long-term durability is decent for its class, yet weaknesses emerge over time. The automated manual transmission's quirks can become more pronounced, and clutch wear might necessitate replacement. Suspension components like bushings and shock absorbers are common wear items, especially with city driving. Electrical gremlins, like window motor failures, also tend to surface. Electric Drive models generally boast better powertrain durability, with battery degradation being the primary long-term concern affecting range, though the overall motor and drivetrain tend to be very robust.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2014 Smart fortwo, true to its minimalist city car ethos, offers a rather basic suite of built-in tech and entertainment features. The standard setup typically includes an AM/FM radio with a CD player and two speakers. The Passion trim usually adds an auxiliary input for external devices and a multi-function display. Optional features included a navigation system, often an aftermarket unit integrated into the dashboard, and an upgraded audio system. Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling was also available, sometimes as part of an optional package or as an accessory.
Driver-assistance features are virtually nonexistent, reflecting the car's age and focus on simplicity. There are no advanced systems like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, or adaptive cruise control.
Safety features, however, are surprisingly robust for such a small car. Standard safety equipment includes:
Crash-Test Ratings (Specific to 2014 model, but generally applicable to the generation):
Driver-assistance features are virtually nonexistent, reflecting the car's age and focus on simplicity. There are no advanced systems like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, or adaptive cruise control.
Safety features, however, are surprisingly robust for such a small car. Standard safety equipment includes:
- Four airbags (front and side curtain airbags)
- Antilock Brakes (ABS)
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Traction Control System (TCS)
- Hill Start Assist
- Tridion safety cell: A high-strength steel frame designed to protect occupants in a crash.
Crash-Test Ratings (Specific to 2014 model, but generally applicable to the generation):
- IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety): The 2014 Smart fortwo received "Good" ratings in the moderate overlap front, side impact, roof strength, and head restraints & seats tests. However, it received a "Poor" rating in the small overlap front test, which became a more stringent standard.
- NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration): The 2014 fortwo typically received 4 out of 5 stars for overall frontal crash protection and 4 out of 5 stars for overall side crash protection. Rollover resistance was rated at 4 out of 5 stars.
What Colors Options are Available?
We’re working on this section!
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.
2014 Smart fortwo Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2014 Smart fortwo gasoline models typically started around $12,000 for the Pure coupe, rising to about $18,000 for a Passion cabriolet. The Electric Drive models were significantly pricier, often beginning around $25,000 and climbing to $28,000 before federal tax credits.
Today, current used market prices vary widely but are considerably lower. Gasoline models can be found for as little as $3,000 to $7,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim. Electric Drive models, while retaining slightly better value due to EV demand, might fetch $5,000 to $10,000, heavily influenced by battery health and range.
Depreciation for the Smart fortwo has been substantial. Factors affecting resale value include the limited appeal of a two-seater, the unrefined transmission of gasoline models, and the relatively short range of the ED version. Higher mileage, poor maintenance, and cosmetic damage further diminish value. Its niche appeal means it depreciates faster than more mainstream cars, but its low entry price makes it an attractive budget option.
Today, current used market prices vary widely but are considerably lower. Gasoline models can be found for as little as $3,000 to $7,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim. Electric Drive models, while retaining slightly better value due to EV demand, might fetch $5,000 to $10,000, heavily influenced by battery health and range.
Depreciation for the Smart fortwo has been substantial. Factors affecting resale value include the limited appeal of a two-seater, the unrefined transmission of gasoline models, and the relatively short range of the ED version. Higher mileage, poor maintenance, and cosmetic damage further diminish value. Its niche appeal means it depreciates faster than more mainstream cars, but its low entry price makes it an attractive budget option.
2014 Smart fortwo Cost of Ownership
The 2014 Smart fortwo is generally an economical vehicle to own, primarily due to its outstanding fuel efficiency. Gasoline models offer excellent MPG, while Electric Drive models benefit from lower electricity costs compared to gasoline. Insurance costs are typically on the lower side due to its low purchase price and modest performance. Routine maintenance is relatively affordable, but specific repairs, particularly those requiring specialized Mercedes-Benz parts or diagnostics, can be costly. The automated manual transmission's potential issues can also lead to repair expenses. Overall, the fortwo is an economical choice for urban dwellers, but potential for specific high-cost repairs prevents it from being universally cheap long-term.
2014 Smart fortwo Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Electric
Fuel Capacity
8.21 liters
City Mileage
0.81 km/l
Highway Mileage
1.06 km/l
2014 Smart fortwo Safety Rating
IIHS
2014 Smart fortwo 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
2014 Smart fortwo Insurance
Insurance for a 2014 Smart fortwo is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Coupe with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2014 Smart fortwo Compare to Other Coupe?
The 2014 Smart fortwo occupies a unique niche, and its "class" is quite small, often pitting it against slightly larger subcompacts or other microcars. Key rivals might include the Fiat 500, Scion iQ, Mini Cooper, and even some smaller subcompacts like the Chevrolet Spark or Mitsubishi Mirage.
In terms of Performance, the Smart fortwo lags significantly behind most rivals. Its 70 hp gasoline engine and sluggish automated manual transmission deliver a 0-60 mph time exceeding 12 seconds, making it one of the slowest cars on the road. The Fiat 500 (101 hp, ~10 seconds), Scion iQ (94 hp, ~10 seconds), and Mini Cooper (121 hp, ~8.5 seconds) all offer a more engaging and capable driving experience, especially outside city limits. Even the Chevrolet Spark (84 hp) feels more sprightly.
Features are also basic in the fortwo. While it offers essentials, rivals like the Fiat 500 or Mini Cooper provide more upscale interiors, better infotainment options, and generally a more refined user experience. The Scion iQ, though also small, often came with more standard tech. The fortwo Electric Drive variant offers modern electric propulsion, which is a feature advantage over most gasoline-only rivals.
Reliability for the gasoline fortwo can be a mixed bag, largely due to the much-maligned transmission and occasional electrical quirks. While the engine itself is fairly robust, it's generally not considered as reliable as Japanese alternatives like the Scion iQ or Chevrolet Spark. The Electric Drive model often boasts better powertrain reliability, but long-term battery degradation is a factor.
Price is where the fortwo initially held an advantage as one of the cheapest new cars, especially the base Pure trim. However, depreciation has been steep. Used prices are very low, but rivals like the Chevrolet Spark and Mitsubishi Mirage also offer competitive used pricing with greater practicality. The Mini Cooper and Fiat 500, while more expensive new, offer better driving dynamics and features for their used price points.
Recommended Alternatives:
The Smart fortwo remains a highly niche vehicle. For most buyers seeking a small, economical city car, several alternatives offer a better balance of performance, features, and reliability.
In terms of Performance, the Smart fortwo lags significantly behind most rivals. Its 70 hp gasoline engine and sluggish automated manual transmission deliver a 0-60 mph time exceeding 12 seconds, making it one of the slowest cars on the road. The Fiat 500 (101 hp, ~10 seconds), Scion iQ (94 hp, ~10 seconds), and Mini Cooper (121 hp, ~8.5 seconds) all offer a more engaging and capable driving experience, especially outside city limits. Even the Chevrolet Spark (84 hp) feels more sprightly.
Features are also basic in the fortwo. While it offers essentials, rivals like the Fiat 500 or Mini Cooper provide more upscale interiors, better infotainment options, and generally a more refined user experience. The Scion iQ, though also small, often came with more standard tech. The fortwo Electric Drive variant offers modern electric propulsion, which is a feature advantage over most gasoline-only rivals.
Reliability for the gasoline fortwo can be a mixed bag, largely due to the much-maligned transmission and occasional electrical quirks. While the engine itself is fairly robust, it's generally not considered as reliable as Japanese alternatives like the Scion iQ or Chevrolet Spark. The Electric Drive model often boasts better powertrain reliability, but long-term battery degradation is a factor.
Price is where the fortwo initially held an advantage as one of the cheapest new cars, especially the base Pure trim. However, depreciation has been steep. Used prices are very low, but rivals like the Chevrolet Spark and Mitsubishi Mirage also offer competitive used pricing with greater practicality. The Mini Cooper and Fiat 500, while more expensive new, offer better driving dynamics and features for their used price points.
Recommended Alternatives:
- For City Agility and Better Driving Dynamics: The Fiat 500 or Mini Cooper (base models). They offer more personality, better performance, and superior interior quality, though they are slightly larger.
- For Reliability and Practicality on a Budget: The Scion iQ (if you can find one, as it's also a microcar with better reliability and a more conventional CVT) or the Chevrolet Spark. These offer similar economy but with a more traditional and often more reliable powertrain and slightly more interior space.
- For EV Economy with More Range: Newer used EVs like the first-generation Nissan Leaf (though larger) offer substantially more range and often comparable used prices.
The Smart fortwo remains a highly niche vehicle. For most buyers seeking a small, economical city car, several alternatives offer a better balance of performance, features, and reliability.
Final Verdict: Is the 2014 Smart fortwo a Good Coupe?
The 2014 Smart fortwo is ideal for a very specific type of driver: the urban dweller who prioritizes absolute maneuverability, ease of parking, and fuel efficiency above all else. It's perfect for navigating extremely tight city streets and slotting into parking spots no other car can manage. It's also suitable for individuals or couples without children who need a secondary, short-distance commuter car.
For these buyers, it can be worth buying, but strictly as a used vehicle. Its new price depreciation was severe, making current used models excellent value for money. The Electric Drive (ED) trim is generally a better long-term proposition due to its smoother, more reliable powertrain and lower running costs, assuming its limited range meets your needs and battery health is good. For gasoline models, opt for the Passion trim for basic comforts like A/C. Avoid it if you frequently drive on highways, need cargo space, or desire a refined driving experience. Test drive the automated manual transmission extensively before committing.
For these buyers, it can be worth buying, but strictly as a used vehicle. Its new price depreciation was severe, making current used models excellent value for money. The Electric Drive (ED) trim is generally a better long-term proposition due to its smoother, more reliable powertrain and lower running costs, assuming its limited range meets your needs and battery health is good. For gasoline models, opt for the Passion trim for basic comforts like A/C. Avoid it if you frequently drive on highways, need cargo space, or desire a refined driving experience. Test drive the automated manual transmission extensively before committing.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.