In this era of high gas prices, the Smart ForTwo is creating quite a stir. It made its debut in the U.S. this spring, although it's been buzzing around Europe for 10 years.
It's made by Daimler Benz and costs just over $15,000.
Consumer Reports took a closer look and found that the inside seems bigger than many consumers might expect.
"The cabin is very airy. There's a lot of light coming in from the sunroof and the windows are nice and big, and it actually feels quite roomy inside," said David Champion, the head of auto testing for Consumer Reports
This tiny two-seater gets great mileage. Consumer Reports has been using just over five litres for every 100 kilometers. But it needs premium gas .
In crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Smart Car did quite well.
It received the highest rating in the 40 mile an hour front-crash test, as well as in the side-impact crash test.
However, out on the road, if the pavement is rough, the driver will feel it.
"The ride quality is very stiff and jiggly. The bumps really come through. And you're never really comfortable in it," said Champion
Acceleration isn't very quick either, and the transmission isn't smooth.
"It takes an awful long time and makes the car almost nod back and forth in between gear changes," he said.
While it's not very practical for most people, a Consumer Reports score card said the Smart Car has got a quirky quality owners seem to like.
If you're in the market for a small car, Consumer Reports says a much better choice is the Honda Fit.
It costs about the same as the Smart Car, seats five and gets excellent mileage.
But with gas prices high and going higher, you can see the attraction of a tiny smart car that sips fuel.
With a report by CTV British Columbia's Chris Olsen
