Motoring - Tough little car

The new Fortwo is here and the unsuspecting might need more than a second look to spot the difference between it and its much loved predecessor. However, upon closer inspection of this iconic toddler, which Smart claims benefit from a 90 per cent redesign, the differences do become apparent.

The new model boasts quite a list of improvements aimed at resolving many of the original's faults, not least a new engine, gearbox with much improved five-speed transmission, new interior and upgraded safety equipment - along with a body that is 195mm longer and 55mm wider. The Mitsubishi, developed rear-mounted three-cylinder engine now has greater power output with an increased top speed of 90mph (electronically limited), while still being able to get you to the shops and back on a thimble-full of juice.

The distinctive lines of the original car are still present thus maintaining a loyal fan base (770,000 first generation cars sold) but the original softer cutesy shape has gone, replaced by a more masculine and athletic style. From the front, the car sports a more mature grille, along with new headlamps with built-in projection technology, a feature unique to this vehicle class.

The once innovative vertical door handles have made a 90 degree turn to the horizontal position. The rear window is less steeply angled so keeping the roof length short and putting the accent firmly on its coupe characteristics.

Step inside the new Fortwo to discover where the car has undergone the most noticeable changes. Gone is the original S-shaped dashboard - replaced by a straight facia which gives a sense of increased space. External mounted dials and fabric-covered areas on doors and instruments still feature but overall the interior has the feel of a more conventional cabin and is thankfully a lot less cuddly.

The Fortwo still comprises a rear-mounted up-rated petrol engine with 61bhp, 71bhp or 84 bhp options, the top rated engine enjoying the addition of a small turbo-charger making it only marginally slower than the highly-tuned Brabus. Smart does intend releasing a 45bhp diesel in the New Year but only as a left hooker.

All four trim levels - the Pure (basic, but with a good level of standard equipment), Pulse, Passion and the slightly pimped Brabus come in well below the proposed CO2 emissions ceiling of 120g/km. With the entry models returning 60.1mpg and maintenance intervals on the 71bhp of two years or 25,000 miles you won't be spending a bundle on running costs.

Having gained its reputation on the city streets of many a European capital it is a proven city car for two, but thanks to its improved suspension and alert steering the new Fortwo is now more agile and responsive than its predecessor. This is particularly true when faced with an open road, or the challenges of a motorway drive, where the new five-speed gearbox smoothly (and with far less gear change lag) takes you to a surprisingly comfortable cruising speed.

Smart is clearly being what the name suggests, bringing the new Fortwo to market at a time guaranteed to see the youthful, cost-conscious, green voter beating a path to their door and when there's this much fun to be had, who can blame them.

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