2013 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive review

August 19, 2013

Upon first approach, the Smart EV is identical to the previous second-generation Fortwo with no major changes -- why reinvent the wheel if you don't have to? -- except for the new electric drivetrain.

The third-generation Smart EV is a zero-emissions vehicle driven by Bosch/Daimler 55-kilowatt electric motor that is powered by a Deutsche ACCUmotive lithium-ion battery created in house by a Daimler subsidiary.

Beyond the doors is a spacious two-seater, where looks are all the same with two dash-mounted gauge pods that resemble a massive tach grossly encroaching on valuable window space.

The only true signifier that the vehicle is on is the “ready” is a light flashing idly on the dash. It does feel strange when the vehicle is turned on and there is no normative feedback or under the hood grumble. Breaking the silence is an on-board noise generator which allows pedestrians and bicyclists to know that a vehicle is moving.

Despite traveling around in the crammed city streets, the added noise was unapparent in the cabin. However, the Smart EV allows for a considerable amount of road noise, and at 30 mph it sounded like a lifted Ford Bronco with 33-inch BFG mud tires slapping against the pavement.

A noticeable drive feature is the throttle response, a variable position pedal that doesn't allow for an abrupt or teeth-rattling launch from a park position; instead it's a constant and linear power application. That's not to say that the Smart EV cannot make a swift takeoff. For long distances the pedal resistance could become more of a labor-intensive exercise than a joy.

The EV truly springs to life with the pedal to the floor: using a double accelerator tap, the 96 lb-ft of torque is instantly available. Under hard acceleration, it causes a serious jolt and allows for the MacPherson front suspension to be fully extended in an all-out rocketship-style launch. Perhaps further improvements to the EV will include a stiffer set of front springs to compensate for the additional torque that the gas Fortwo lacks.

Regenerative braking is something even the most experienced drivers must adjust for. The Smart EV is no different. With even the slightest application, braking modulation is at a minimum, operating in an all-or-nothing manner.

The rear-wheel drive layout, small wheelbase and low center of gravity allows for a go-kart-esque feel around town. Manipulating tight turns and long sweeps, the Smart EV is even a little entertaining on the open road. Handling is tight and planted on the road, and while it is no Porsche 911, the Smart holds its own in a well-mannered fashion. Steering under full throttle takes anticipation and a sense of direction so oversteering is not too extreme.

Lead-foot drivers beware, the Smart EV is capable of breaking the law just like any other car. At any speed above 25 mph, it feels the same. The straight line characteristics and cabin noise remain consistent, and many times we found ourselves going over the posted limit and having to adjust.

The interior of the Fortwo EV is ample enough for adults up to 6 feet, with the rear restriction being in the leg room. Trunk space is tight, so an overnight bag might even max out the rear hatch space. It would be a good idea to minimize your travel essentials.

The in-dash entertainment system is simplistic with a primitive touchscreen display. But when did GPS systems become so difficult? It was like a demonic voice demanding our every action: “Turn right NOW!” It was as if we upset it by deviating from the planned route. Sheesh.

One of the notable comfort options is the preconditioning system that can be controlled by your smartphone while the Smart EV is plugged in. This system allows for interior temperature control, pre-set for a specific time. On blistering summer days and chilly winter nights, this auto-run system can take the edge off the worst temperatures Mother Nature can dole out.

Recent pricing changes drop the original lease cost from $199 per month to a reasonable $139, including the battery protection package, requiring $1,999 down. The Smart EV can now be purchased outright for $25,750, but we would not recommend it unless you also get the battery protection, which covers the battery for the first 10 years. Ideally this assurance program is to keep consumer woes at bay in light of all the trivial issues being faced by up-and-coming EV programs. The Smart EV is currently available in key electric vehicle markets such as California, while the remaining dealers across the nation will be coming online in the coming months.

If you're looking for a vehicle for short range, commuting in congested inner-city streets, the Smart EV could be the car for you, and if you prefer a burner, this car isn't on your list of must drives anyway.

On Sale: Now

Base Price: $25,750 (Coupe)

Drivetrain: 55-kW electric motor; RWD, one-speed transmission

Output: 74-hp, 96-lb-ft

Curb Weight: 2,094

0-60 mph: 11.5 sec (mfr)

Fuel Economy (EPA City/Hwy/Combined): 122 city/93 hwy/107 combined mpg-e