While reasonably priced, especially for the fortwo's "wow" factor, its novelty will eventually wear off after it becomes
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| With the fortwo's $16,000 base price, it may take some convincing to lure buyers away from larger, higher performance subcompacts such as the Hyundai Elantra, Kia Rio and Toyota Echo Hatchback . (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
more commonplace. To achieve such popularity, smart will need to convince buyers its micro-sized half-pint is worth the extra coin over much larger, higher performance subcompacts such as the Hyundai Elantra, Kia Rio and Toyota Echo Hatchback. The last one on this list, and also the newest to the Canadian market, is selling extremely well. It's cheap, extremely roomy, a blast to drive and quite cute in its own right. What's more, the Echo Hatch's long-term reliability should be stellar, as it's based on the same running gear as its well-proven 4-door sedan sibling. Not to get too down on the tiny Mercedes-Benz made upstart, but the smart fortwo's $16,000 base sticker also encroaches on larger compact models, including old
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| Whether people buy it for its irresistible and unique appeal or it's high level of standard features, the fortwo won't disappoint. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
favorites like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, plus Canada's current top selling Mazda3. But in the beginning, at least, the fortwo should sell quite well. Those that take the time to investigate the car's high level of standard safety features will see their money will be well spent. Even if customers purchase the fortwo just because of its irresistible appeal, however, its price isn't too far out of reach of most buyers. This excitement should carry the brand through at least a year or two, at which time the smart forfour, a larger Mitsubishi Colt-based 4-seater will become available. When this occurs smart will still be cute, yet it will also offer a car that hits mainstream Canada dead on. The forfour will be followed by the formore, a pint-sized SUV that should also broaden the brand's appeal.
