Smart fortwo Pre Model pulse cdi (54bhp) 2dr Car Review - February 2012

One of the most frustrating things about the Fortwo Pulse CDI is that getting up to speed is a laborious process, and considering this is designed for city driving where accelerating and braking is the typical drive then this is a problem. The ride is also exceptionally firm, which may be fine for smooth continental roads, but every bump and hole in the British roads is felt in the cabin. The steering is a little stiffer than it should be, but on the plus side the driving position is a little better, although it may not suit larger drivers simply because of the size of the car.

It is the engine performance that is the biggest gripe with this version of the Fortwo, with the diesel engine seeing seasons pass as it goes from 0-62mph in 19.8 seconds. The top speed of 84mph may be well above the motorway speed limit, but for a car designed for city driving, it is the acceleration that is the most important and practical figure worth considering.

The distinctively designed Smart Fortwo is a car that will usually appeal to a certain type of person, and although it may not be practical for many people, this two coloured car is going to divide opinion. The small alloy wheels are included as standard with this model, but it is the cute front end that will often attract people, with the large air intake and the headlights combining to give the Fortwo a mischievous face. Inside the cabin the Fortwo is easy to use, with chunky controls and dials that are clear and easy to read.

A lot of the nicest equipment in the Fortwo is to be found in the optional extras list, but this still comes with air conditioning, electric windows and an immobiliser. Power steering is one option that is well worth considering, as the heavy steering makes parking the Fortwo a little more of a chore than it really should be for this small car.

The Smart Fortwo could be quite practical for those people who only tend to drive around the town or city, and need to have a car that is easy to park as one of the main priorities. However, most people will find that it is a little too small and too ponderous to drive for long distances. Although the car does have a good driver feedback, many people have reported experiencing gearbox problems with the Fortwo.

Safety is another area where the Fortwo doesn't quite keep up with other cars, with side airbags only being optional, but there is a stability control system to help keep the car on the road. The Fortwo was awarded four stars in the Euro NCAP safety test.

Considering that the Smart Fortwo is such a small car, it may gall some people to find that the list price of £10,400 is into five figures. There are many larger city cars which are available well under that figure, but they aren't able to boast the tiny size and exceptional fuel efficiency of this car.

The only reason to consider this version of the car for most people will be the efficiency, with the almost unheard of fuel performance of an average 85.6mpg. Low tax and insurance costs mean that this is an even more attractive prospect, with resale values remaining high too. The package is completed with a two year warranty and a two year roadside breakdown assistance policy.