Smart fortwo
The Smart fortwo is available in three different trims: Pure coupe; Passion coupe and Passion cabriolet. Each comes with a 1.0L, 3-cylinder engine that makes 70 hp and 68 lb-ft of torque. It may not seem like much, but with its small body and a curb weight of less than 1,900 lb, it hardly matters. Planned for later in the year is a new plug-in fortwo Electric Drive model, offered in either coupe or cabriolet body style. Power will come from an electric magneto motor rated at 74 hp and 90 ft-lb of torque.
To ease driver concerns of the tiny car's safety, Smart developed its "Tridion Safety Cell," which provides the underlying structure that gives the fortwo its egg-like shape. The curves of the cell are remarkably strong, providing a "shell" around the passengers in the event of a crash. The fortwo also features a cabin full of airbags, as well as an impressive array of safety systems: electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, cornering brake control, electronic brake assist, skid and torque control and hill-start assist.
The base level of the fortwo, called the Pure, is a bit spartan, but it does feature a leather steering wheel and shifter, keyless entry, power locks, flat-folding passenger seat and one windshield wiper (which is all it needs). Options include cruise control, fog lamps, heated seats, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD sound system and alloy wheels.
The Passion coupe adds a panorama roof, alloy wheels, standard air conditioning and stereo, plus paddle shifters, power windows and electric, heated mirrors. The Comfort Package equips the Passion with power steering, heated leather seats and fog lamps. The Passion cabriolet is similarly set up, but features a soft top with heated rear glass window and an upgraded MP3-ready stereo. LED running lamps, a navigation system, audiophile stereo system with Bluetooth and 6.5-inch touchscreen and iPod input as well as satellite radio are among the options available.
The Passion Cabriolet's targa-like convertible roof is noteworthy for being adjustable at any speed to any position, unlike most cars' convertible roofs, which can only be adjusted at low speeds. The side roof bars can be removed and stowed in the tailgate, for a full wind-in-the-face experience.