New smart fortwo Debuts

DaimlerChrysler recently unveiled a redesigned version of the smart fortwo - the first update in the model's history and the first to be officially offered in the United States market when it goes on sale here starting in 2008. As far as redesigns go, this one is decidedly evolutionary. While the fortwo has grown 7.7 inches in length, benefiting rear impact protection and improving ride quality, the car is still nearly 40 inches shorter than the next shortest car currently sold in America. DaimlerChrysler - smart's corporate parent - says the new headlight treatment and front fascia give the car a more masculine look, but the plastic bodypanels and tridion safety cell ensure the new smart fortwo won't be mistaken for anything else. Meeting U.S. safety regulations was a key goal for this second generation fortwo, particularly influencing the layout of the redesigned interior.

Reengineered gasoline-powered engines are now 1.0-liter in size, up from 0.7-liter, increasing power output accordingly: 61 hp, 71 hp, or 84 hp, depending on the model. Fuel economy for the gasoline engine is expected to be about 47 mpg, while the diesel engine in the fortwo cdi improves fuel economy to 67 mpg. Power from both engines is routed through an automated five-speed manual transmission from Getrag. Sometime after the April 2007 European launch of the fortwo, a starter-generator will be available in the 71 hp gasoline version that improves fuel economy 13 percent by shutting off the engine when the car comes to a stop. According to DaimlerChrysler, the fortwo was designed for quick implementation of natural gas or electric drive powertrains as well, should these become economically viable. We do not have official word yet on exactly which models will be offered here, and for how much, but you'll know when we do.