Mercedes-Benz Canada is not concerned though. The company's president and CEO, Marcus Breitschwerdt commented, "We decided to launch the current generation of fortwo
 |
| The smart cars will be going head-to-head with the cheaper and more powerful Mazda3 and Toyota Echo. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz Canada) |
smarts in Canada in response to strong consumer demand. Based on the success of the fortwo models around the world, it was the consensus that there is an unequivocal need for this type of intelligent, fuel efficient mobility in Canada." He added, "The advanced common rail diesel cdi technology lends itself perfectly to the demands of today's sophisticated driver who is looking for clean energy, performance and
fuel economy. smart will become an integral part of our product and brand portfolio, and we will expand and complete the smart line up in the coming years with additional models including an SUV." With the smart brand arriving in Canada soon, and other brands considering following Toyota's recent lead down market, the Japanese automaker's Canadian division introduced the subcompact
Echo Hatchback late last year, the economy end of the market is
 |
| Mercedes is hoping for the same success with smart as BMW has enjoyed with its popular MINI brand. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz Canada) |
heating up. smart, however, will be the only brand retailing microcars, which are considerably smaller than even Toyota's Echo Hatchback. No doubt the tiny smart fortwo will find an enthusiastic niche of trend setters willing to spend more for something truly unique. BMW's MINI is a prime example of this formula working at its best. No doubt Mercedes-Benz would like to experience similar results with its smart brand. Unlike MINI, smart has announced it will be introducing additional models over and above the fortwo, including the forfour, a subcompact sedan capable of seating four adults, and the formore, a subcompact SUV. smart also makes a sporty roadster that should also be coming to Canada to strengthen its position in the subcompact market.
