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smart fortwo 2008 Preview

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Khatir Soltani
Alive and kicking!

Stuttgart, Germany - The smart fortwo almost didn't get a second-generation model. But DaimlerChrysler convinced itself that it was worthwhile: the little urban runabout has been revised, modified, and improved. Starting next year, it should even be profitable.

(Photo: Nadine Filion, Auto123.com)
The world unveiling of the 2008 smart fortwo was held last Thursday night, at the top of a multi-level parking lot in the heart of Stuttgart, headquarters of German carmaker Mercedes-Benz. Under the glow of fireworks, the minicar appeared in front of us... albeit with only a minimal transformation. That's good news!

The two-seater keeps its juvenile shape and vivid-colored plastic body panels. However, its headlights are bigger, which gives the front fascia a more determined look.

The sharp eye will also notice the 195-mm longer and 44-mm wider dimensions. Those who are worried about this can be reassured, the smart still measures under three meters long, and can still be parked perpendicularly, between two SUV bumpers.

What's the benefit of these greater dimensions? The wheelbase is extended by 55 millimeters, which should provide greater stability on the road. Also, the cargo area is a third larger; with 340 litres of storage space, the 2008 fortwo can carry as much... as the trunk of a Honda Civic.

New transmission... of course!
Even the biggest fans of the smart couldn't refrain from talking about the Getrag automated manual transmission, which rowed through its six gears like a rocking chair.

(Photo: smart)
Good news: the new gearbox, still from Getrag, cuts in half the time it requires to shift through its five (yes, five) speeds. At least, that's what Dr. Klaus Badenhausen, director of engineering on the project, told us.

The German also revealed to us that while the suspension kept its architecture, it was completely revised: "The shocks' firmness has been reduced by 10%, so the ride is softer."

However, the car has gained weight. For the diesel version, for example, the coupe weighs 50 kilograms more (up to 780 kilos), an increase of 7%.

The heart of the fortwo
(Photo: smart)
The heart of the fortwo, a three-cylinder once again, is still located ahead of the rear axle, a few centimeters away from the occupants' posteriors.

The diesel variant keeps its 0.8-liter displacement, but gains 5 horsepower, for a total of 45. Unfortunately, this version won't be coming to North America when the car will land on our shores, scheduled for next fall.
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
As a car enthusiast, he tests and compares vehicles from different categories through the eyes of the consumer, ensuring relevant and objective reviews.
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada