Let’s Get Small
Smart reboots the original ForTwo
First, let’s address the elephant in the room: it’s not the Smart “Number Two”, it’s the “Hashtag Two”. And, yes, I feel that is literally the most awkwardly named vehicle—and possibly the most awkwardly named consumer product—I’ve ever encountered.
The original ForTwo, of course, came from the partnership between innovative watchmaker Swatch and Mercedes-Benz, whereby SMART=Swatch+Mercedes+ART. Launched in 1998, it featured a rear-mounted engine, a “Tridion” spaceframe with removable (and changeable) plastic body panels, a clever internal storage system, and a unique and charming look. An EV joined the 2nd generation, and the 3rd generation ceased production in 2024.
The new #2 comes from the rebooted Smart, a joint venture between China’s Geely and Mercedes that launched in 2019. Using a new Electric Compact Architecture, it’s still rear-drive but now EV-only, and has a version of what they call a Tridion safety cell—but without the composite body panels. It’s 10” longer and wider than the original and (unfortunately), about 1000lbs heavier. That weight includes a battery pack that’s double the size of the last ForTwo EQ, more than doubling the range to 290 km WLTP (about 155 mi EPA). You get (sort of) fast DC charging at 65 kW, and there’s V2L capability to plug in and charge other electrical devices.
The interior features plenty of curves and circles, from the S-shaped instrument panel (and bench seat!) to the circular air vents and door pulls. Available ADAS technology includes smart Pilot Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go and Highway Assist. There’s no 65 open-air variant yet, but a higher-performance Brabus model is teased on Smart’s website. Also not yet visible are some of the brighter colors and trims associated with the original ForTwo; the photos on the website show a rather depressing black interior.
The ForTwo wasn’t the most fuel-efficient or cost-conscious (or really rational) choice for those searching for a small car, but it was rather a unique proposition with the original focus on maneuverability, fashion, and safety. The #2 seems to have successfully captured the spirit of the original while improving on the capability. With over 2 million ForTwos built over 26 years, Smart is hoping to recapture the magic for only €19,990. With a wave of stylish four-seat affordable EVs on the way (including the VW ID. Up, Citroën 2CV, Fiat Koala, Renault Twingo, and Dacia Spring – not to mention the Chinese), Smart is going to have a tougher job...
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