Overall Rating:

4 out of 5

Not perfect but still fun, October 17, 2008
By danncote

"First the bad news:
1. Stingiest car warranty in the world (2 years/24,000 miles).
2. Suspension delivers a rough ride over all but the smoothest of roads.
3. It's noisy
4. Waiting list is a year + long.
5. Fewer than 100 dealers across the country.
And the So-So news:
1. The transmission takes some getting used to but the paddle shifters are fun.
2. It's missing some much-needed options (Cruise Control and Daytime Running Lights for example but the aftermarket is addressing this)
3. It requires the use of Premium fuel but mid-grade seems to work fine without penalty.
4. Visibility is compromised by the oddly shaped side mirrors and optional rain sensor but the greenhouse and high seating work in your favor
The good news is:
1. Safety: even the base model comes with all the safety features that result in superior NHTSA & IIHS rankings.
2. Value for money: A fully optioned cabriolet costs less than a top of the line Harley-Davidson tourer or Honda Gold Wing
3. Gas mileage: Ours very consistently delivers 42-43 MPG (hyper-milers do even better) but the smiles per mile are priceless
4. Creature comforts abound: Easy ingress/egress, lots of head & leg room, optional heated seats are excellent, optional climate control is effective.
5. Attention-getting (Is it ever)
6. Chameleon-like capability: Change the color of the car with an available "fresh-up" kit.
7. Aftermarket is gearing up fast (Cruise Control, ECU tuning, Wheels,Suspension, Exhaust, Audio, Navigation are all available now.)
8. Very active on-line community.

Bottom Line: The smart isn't perfect by any stretch but its quirkiness is charming and endearing."

41 of 41 people found this review helpful.

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