Smart fortwo cabrio pulse (84bhp) 2dr Car Review - February 2012

The fortwo cabrio pulse offers a higher power output of 84 bhp with torque figures of 88 lb-ft at 2500-4750 rpm. This gives the model an additional boost over the standard fortwo pulse and efficiency remains fairly high for a car of this calibre. The car achieves a decent fuel efficiency of 57.6 mpg – a figure which many may find surprising in a petrol engine. Whilst this is lower than 67.3 mpg figure offered by the standard fortwo pulse it is better than the 54.3 mpg efficiency offered BRABUS Xclusive.

There is a fairly fast response between gears as compared to previous models and the car feels comfortable on city roads as well as out of town. The drive is relaxed thanks to improved suspension but those after a powerful drive could still find the low power output a hindrance.

Unfortunately, noise disruption is still a problem within the cabin – although it is vastly improved. This is worst at high revs and means long stretches of motorway driving could be frustrating.

With power steering costing an additional £325, the fortwo cabrio pulse still lacks some of the standard equipment offered by rivals. The model is reasonably priced at £11,200 but offers little additional tech compared to the standard fortwo pulse which is a full £2,000 cheaper.

Central locking, stability control, alloy wheels, air conditioning and electric front windows are still standard features, as is MP3 connectivity for the stereo system. However, the joint sat nav and Bluetooth option is only available at an additional cost of £490.

Electric door mirrors will still cost you another £130 with metallic paint finishes, cruise control and an alarm system also featuring as chargeable extras. Cruise control costs £275 which is cheaper than in the fortwo passion.

A refined interior gives this model an easy to navigate dashboard that is sure to appeal to most drivers. The drive is more comfortable thanks to improved suspension and the automatic gear programme, and interior space is used well. The cabin benefits from a tall shape which offers generous leg and headroom whilst still abiding by Smart’s dedication to offering compact vehicles.

In terms of storage capacity, the fortwo cabrio pulse still offers a mediocre 220 litre capacity when the rear seats are in place, expanding this by 120 litres when the seats are folded – giving a maximum capacity of 340 litres. The twin section tailgate makes loading goods easier by acting as a small platform.

In terms of safety, the cabrio pulse comes with driver and passenger airbags as standard with front side airbags costing £205. This is a huge disadvantage as many rival manufacturers now offer these features as standard equipment.

Elsewhere an immobiliser is fitted as standard but an alarm costs an additional £210 – the same as in the standard fortwo pulse. That said, the model performed amicably in the NCAP tests, achieving a four star rating for occupant safety.

Despite the additional power, this vehicle is still exceptionally inexpensive when it comes to running costs. It is placed in a fairly cheap road tax band (C).

Green credentials are strong with carbon emissions of 115 g/km. Achieving 57.6 mpg, refuelling is inexpensive and infrequent – keeping running costs at an all time low. However, both these figures fail to match the standard fortwo pulse which boasts marginally lower carbon emissions of 97 g/km and better fuel efficiency of 67.3 mpg at a lower purchase price. The additional ecological benefits of the fortwo pulse also place it in road tax band A – making road tax costs non-existent.

For a two-seater city car, this model delivers everything it promises and more. Clearly aimed at eco-conscious road users, the low carbon emissions and lower running costs make this an attractive proposition for any driver.

However, the purchase price of £11,200 is a little high considering the value offered by the basic fortwo pulse. Whilst the additional power boost is welcomed the top speed remains the same and the minor improvements fail to justify the £2,000 mark-up from the standard fortwo pulse. Those after a powerful, high performance car are likely to see the fortwo cabrio pulse as a worthy investment but those more concerned with buying a basic and economical city car would be better off with the standard pulse.