Smart Car. I like it! I want it??

[rgathright]

Jalopnik.com review

What does everyone think about the Smart Car? I saw one in a parking lot this weekend and really liked it. The price is good too... $12K and dealers are in Houston, TX.

Here are some other reviews:
Wired.com - Review

[GasSavers_BEEF]

first of all they are awesome and I am currently on the waiting list.

but the negatives (there aren't many)
the wait is I think currently at 13-15 months and it is growing.
also the $11,600 model doesn't come with a/c or even a radio.

granted the $13,600 model comes with most creature features and will do most of what anyone needs on their commute and gives you a sun roof as well.

if you sign up for one, get the passion. also check on the orphan list. if you aren't picky, you can get one sooner.

[Kohote]

Go for it! Hopefully Smart will realize this car's popularity and bring over the new 800cc diesel.

[GasSavers_BEEF]

if they brought over the diesel then we will be looking at the 60 mpg car that everyone wants.

[Kohote]

Yeah, imagine the nation's fuel consumption if the average personal vehicle goes from ~20 mpg to ~60mpg. If they bring over the diesel, then maybe they could make a high FE model with better aerodynamics and a six speed manual tranny.

[GasSavers_BEEF]

I wish for the manual tranny as well. they also have this system on some of the smarts overseas that will cut the engine under a certain speed. I can't remember what it is but it is low. what this does is kills the car at stop lights and it claims to get 8 or 9% better FE for it. doesn't sound like much but that is almost 8MPG on a car that gets 40 to the gallon.

I hope that smart takes off in the US. Honestly, I can't see it doing bad. I just wish they could keep up with demand

[rgathright]

Yes, I wish they came with a manual transmission as well.

I terribly curious to see how the Smart Car would behave with the alternator disconnected.

However, with a 12 month wait time... there is little chance I will be driving soon.

[opelgt73]

I've always liked micro cars. I was thinking about getting one after I finish paying off my BMW. Hopefully by then they will have a diesel version with a manual trans available in the US.