In Russia, the smart fortwo hatchback has not yet gained much popularity, having sold a modest circulation of 193 copies last year. However, the creators of the compact city car are not discouraged and plan to expand the dealer network in time for the Russian debut of the new generation of smart fortwo, scheduled for the end of 2015.
The third smart fortwo received a completely new look, but at the same time retained the familiar two-tone exterior paint. The front of the car now flaunts diamond-shaped optics with integrated U-shaped daytime running lights. The new radiator grille contains a fresh smart emblem, and on the bumper there is a slightly aggressive pseudo-air intake, reminiscent of the fact that we are in front of a car, and not a cute toy model.
In terms of dimensions, the new generation of smart fortwo has hardly changed. The hatchback retained the same body length of 2695 mm, but received a slightly larger wheelbase - 1873 mm. The width of the city car increased to 1660 mm, while the height, on the contrary, sank to 1550 mm. At the same time, we note that the new smart fortwo has set an absolute record for turning diameter, for which the new product requires only 6.95 meters. The closest pursuer in the face of Toyota iQ fits as much as 7.79 meters.
The new exterior was followed by a new interior. The two-seater smart fortwo flaunts an abundance of oval, spherical and round design elements, can be equipped with fabric upholstery of the upper part of the front panel, received a modernized instrument panel and a display of the on-board multimedia system placed on a stand.
The trunk of the smart fortwo is slightly larger than its predecessor. Now he is ready to swallow up to 260 liters of cargo.
Specifications. The new generation of smart fortwo will receive three gasoline engines, and subsequently a version with an electric motor, the details of which have not yet been disclosed. Initially, the smart fortwo will enter the market with two engines, but a little later a new base engine with 60 hp will be added to them, the characteristics of which the manufacturer promises to reveal during the Paris Motor Show.
As for the remaining engines, the first of them will receive three in-line cylinders and 1.0 liters (999 cm³) working volume. The motor will be equipped with a multi-point injection system, and its maximum power will not exceed 71 hp. The torque of this power plant at its peak will reach 91 Nm.
The second engine will boast a displacement of 0.9 liters and turbocharging, which can develop up to 90 hp. power and about 135 Nm of torque.
Unlike the previous generation, the new smart fortwo will receive two gearboxes - a basic 5-speed "mechanics" and a 6-range "robot" Twinamic with two Getrag dry clutches.
The new generation of smart fortwo is based on the rear-wheel drive chassis from the fresh Renault Twingo, which debuted this spring. The miniature smart fortwo hatchback received a stiffer Tridion power cage and a redesigned suspension: an independent McPherson at the front and a semi-independent De Dion with new shock absorbers and springs at the rear. As before, the smart fortwo will be equipped with ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels and drum mechanisms on the rear. Note that the electric power steering will be available in higher trim levels, while in the database the driver will have to do without it.
Options and prices. The new smart fortwo is expected to be sold in three trim levels: Passion, Prime and Proxy. In the base, the novelty will receive power windows, cruise control, LED daytime running lights, ABS, EBD, ESP and ASR systems, Crosswind Assist stabilization system in crosswind gusts, monochrome LCD display, climate control, front airbags, immobilizer, central locking with remote control and standard audio system.
The manufacturer has not yet announced the exact prices for the third-generation smart fortwo, but it is already known that the version with a 71-horsepower engine will cost less than 11,000 euros.
