The Good
The 2017 Smart fortwo offers unmatched urban agility and parking ease, appealing to practical buyers. Its exceptional fuel efficiency and low running costs are strong advantages. Emotionally, its distinctive, cheerful design provides a unique personality and a fun-to-drive experience in city environments, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a highly compact, stylish, and efficient urban commuter.
The Bad
Known weaknesses include limited cargo space and poor highway performance, particularly stability in crosswinds and slow acceleration. The ride can be somewhat stiff, and the small fuel tank limits range. While improved, the dual-clutch automatic transmission can feel unrefined at low speeds, and interior materials on lower trims are basic.
2017 Smart fortwo: Quick Overview
- Engine: 0.9-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder gasoline engine.
- Horsepower: 89 hp.
- Torque: 100 lb-ft.
- Transmission: Available with a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed "twinamic" dual-clutch automatic.
- Fuel Economy (EPA estimates):
- Coupe (Manual): 32 MPG City / 39 MPG Highway / 35 MPG Combined
- Coupe (Automatic): 33 MPG City / 39 MPG Highway / 35 MPG Combined
- Cabrio (Manual): 31 MPG City / 38 MPG Highway / 34 MPG Combined
- Cabrio (Automatic): 32 MPG City / 38 MPG Highway / 34 MPG Combined - 0-60 MPH: Approximately 10.1-10.5 seconds (automatic transmission).
- Towing Capacity: Not rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- pure: Entry-level trim with 15-inch steel wheels, LED daytime running lights, automatic climate control, Bluetooth, USB port, power windows, and a basic radio.
- passion: Adds 15-inch alloy wheels, heated power side mirrors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a retractable cargo cover, and various interior customization options.
- prime: Builds on passion with 15-inch five-twin-spoke alloy wheels, leather upholstery, heated seats, front fog lamps, and a panoramic glass roof (coupe only).
- proxy: The sportiest trim, featuring 16-inch black alloy wheels, a sport steering wheel, sport pedals, sport suspension (lower and stiffer), and unique interior accents like blue fabric and white leatherette.
2017 Smart fortwo Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2017 |
| Make | Smart |
| Model | fortwo |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Coupe |
| Category | Sports Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | HAMBACH |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2094 pounds |
| 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 | 1.0-L L-3 DOHC 12V |
| Engine Size | 1L |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 |
| 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 |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2017 Smart fortwo Have?
Regarding common problems, some owners have mentioned premature wear of certain suspension components due to the vehicle's stiff ride and exposure to rough city roads. The 0.9L turbocharged engine itself is generally considered robust if regularly maintained, though like any turbocharged unit, it requires adherence to oil change schedules.
For recalls, the 2017 Smart fortwo was subject to a recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V267000) related to the passenger frontal airbag inflator, a common issue across many brands involving Takata inflators that could rupture upon deployment. There were also recalls for earlier 2016 models that might affect some early 2017 production, such as the rear axle wheel bolt (NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V907000) or front seat belt latch (NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V602000). Long-term reliability concerns typically revolve around the specific parts availability and potential for higher repair costs due to its Mercedes-Benz lineage, despite its small size. Keeping up with maintenance is crucial for longevity.
How long will the 2017 Smart fortwo last?
However, weaknesses over time can include wear on suspension components (bushings, struts) exacerbated by city potholes. Electrical gremlins, though often minor, can become more frequent as the vehicle ages. The dual-clutch transmission's long-term behavior can be a point of concern for some owners if not properly serviced. Interior materials, while decent, may show wear and tear, especially on high-touch surfaces. Due to its unique construction, body repairs after minor accidents can also be costly over time.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Built-in Tech & Entertainment: Standard features included Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, an auxiliary audio input, and a basic radio. Higher trims or optional packages could add the Smart Media System, which featured a 7-inch touchscreen display, navigation, and smartphone integration capabilities (often supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, though availability could vary by package and region). A premium JBL sound system was also an available upgrade for enhanced audio quality.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver aids were relatively limited but effective for its urban purpose. Standard on all models was Crosswind Assist, which automatically applied braking to individual wheels to counteract strong side winds, a crucial feature for such a small, tall vehicle. Optional driver assistance included a rearview camera and rear parking sensors, which greatly aid in navigating tight city spaces and parking.
Safety Features: The fortwo came standard with a comprehensive array of safety equipment. This included eight airbags (front, knee, side curtain, and side thorax airbags for both occupants), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), electronic traction control, electronic stability control, and hill-start assist. A foundational safety element is the rigid Tridion safety cell, a high-strength steel frame designed to protect occupants in a collision.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2017 Smart fortwo did not receive full crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the US. However, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducted some tests. It earned "Good" ratings in the Moderate Overlap Front, Side, Roof Strength, and Head Restraints & Seats tests. In the Small Overlap Front (driver-side) test, it received an "Acceptable" rating, which is respectable for a car of its size, especially given the strength of the Tridion cell.
What Colors Options are Available?
2017 Smart fortwo Prices and Market Value
The Smart fortwo experiences relatively high depreciation, particularly in its early years, largely due to its niche appeal and limited buyer pool. Factors affecting its resale value include the overall condition and maintenance history, which are paramount. Higher trims (passion, prime, proxy) or cabriolet models may hold their value slightly better than the base pure, though all models experience substantial drops. The presence of desirable features like the Smart Media System or smartphone integration can also marginally enhance resale value. General market demand for microcars and fuel price fluctuations also play a role.
2017 Smart fortwo Cost of Ownership
2017 Smart fortwo Fuel Efficiency
2017 Smart fortwo Safety Rating
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2017 Smart fortwo Recalls & Defects
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2017 Smart fortwo Warranty
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2017 Smart fortwo Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2017 Smart fortwo Compare to Other Coupe?
Performance: The Smart fortwo is primarily an urban tool. Its 89 hp engine provides adequate zip for city driving but struggles significantly on the highway with sluggish acceleration and instability in crosswinds. Rivals like the Fiat 500 (especially the Abarth) and Mini Cooper offer far more engaging driving dynamics and highway competence. The Chevy Spark and Mitsubishi Mirage, while not performance powerhouses, generally offer better highway stability and slightly more composed rides.
Features: The Smart offers a respectable feature set for its size, with available touchscreen infotainment, navigation, and smartphone integration on higher trims. However, the Chevrolet Spark often provides more standard features and better overall interior refinement for a similar or lower price. The Fiat 500 emphasizes quirky style and customization, while the Mirage is decidedly utilitarian.
Reliability: The 3rd generation Smart fortwo is an improvement, but its niche nature means less widespread data. The Chevrolet Spark and Mitsubishi Mirage are often lauded for their straightforward, basic reliability and lower maintenance costs. The Fiat 500 has its own set of common issues, and Mini Coopers can be expensive to maintain in the long run.
Price: New, the Smart was competitive with the Spark and Mirage. Used, its significant depreciation often makes it cheaper than comparable-year rivals, offering a strong value proposition for its unique capabilities.
Alternatives:
- Chevrolet Spark: A strong contender for practicality, offering four seats, more cargo space, better highway manners, and often more features for the price. Highly recommended if rear seats are needed.
- Mitsubishi Mirage: If extreme fuel economy and rock-bottom prices are priorities, the Mirage is a basic but reliable option, though even less refined than the Smart.
- Fiat 500: For buyers prioritizing style and a more spirited drive in a small package, the Fiat 500 is a characterful alternative, albeit with its own quirks.
- Used Honda Fit or Toyota Yaris: For similar used prices, these offer vastly superior practicality, reliability, and versatility, though they are larger vehicles.
Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Smart fortwo a Good Coupe?
It can be worth buying, but primarily used due to its steep depreciation, offering excellent value. Look for well-maintained examples with a comprehensive service history. The passion or prime trims provide a good balance of features, comfort, and value over the base pure. Test drive the automatic transmission thoroughly to ensure smooth operation.
However, it's not recommended for frequent highway travel, those needing significant cargo space, or anyone regularly transporting more than one passenger. Buy it if its unique strengths—unmatched urban agility and parking ease—align perfectly with your priorities and driving environment; otherwise, more conventional subcompacts offer better all-around versatility.