2006 smart forfour Preview

Weighing in at a meager 975 kilos (2,150 pounds), the forfour is fairly brisk. The torque curve on this motor flattens out at 2,000 rpm, so revving high and hard is not necessary for decent progress. Expect the top of the line forfour to scoot to 100 km/h in less than ten seconds. European customers have

Where the fortwo and roadster feature clutchless manual gearboxes, known for their jerkiness, the forfour gives the customer a choice. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)

two diesels at their disposal, both 1.5 liter inline threes using the latest common rail turbodiesel technology. Output on each CDI model is 68 and 95 horsepower respectively.

Having a completely new engine lineup that now drive the front wheels as opposed to those in the rear meant that extensive R&D work was need to done be done on the transmissions. Where the fortwo and roadster feature clutchless manual gearboxes, known for their jerkiness, the forfour gives the customer a choice. Standard equipment is a conventional five-speed manual (with a clutch), the first of its kind to be fitted to a smart. In order to help quicken acceleration the forfour's ratios are rather short, which could leave some drivers

Although it does break from the traditional mold somewhat, the forfour still contains all the basic genes that make a smart a smart. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)

desiring a sixth 'cruising' gear. As an extra-cost option, forfours equipped with engines larger than 1.3 liters feature a six-speed clutchless manual. Called "Softip," it has been designed with smoothness and comfort in mind. The jerkiness and roughness of the old clutchless gearbox is reportedly a memory of the past, and aside from offering a manual mode, there is a fully automatic mode. Steering-wheel mounted paddles are available too, for a slightly more involving drive.

As far as smarts go, the forfour fits right into the family lineup. Although it doesn't have a turbocharged inline three gasoline powered engine and is not a strict two seater, the forfour contains all the basic genes that make a smart a smart. It's a great looking car that puts the emphasis on personality and lifestyle, exactly what the company's values are.