Armed with the advice given by many of my colleagues to shift our long-term Smart fortwo’s gears myself for an improved driving experience, I ventured forth. And I have to say that it is much, much better that way. Shifting the automated manual myself, I actually was able to enjoy myself in the little thing and relax enough to realize that I really like the
Smart fortwo Passionâs bold orange-red interior, particularly the slightly nubby fabric that covers much of the dash. The little nubs catch the light and give it a bit of a sparkle, which just adds to the fun factor and suits the carâs personality...
To me, it wouldnât make sense to have a Smart dressed in understated tones like grey, black and beige (which are all available). This car is all about fizzy, pop-y candy colors.
Bryn MacKinnon, Senior Editor, Edmunds.com @ 5,625 miles
lvranger says:
10:37 AM, 06/12/08
My 80 Mustang shifted better when you did it yourself. Too bad the trans blew up after 10 months...
compliance says:
10:43 AM, 06/12/08
The transmission in this car is unforgivable. I drove one on their PR tour last summer. I was laughing at how bad it was. All the Smart employees doing the test drives with people seemed to be embarassed about it. The guy I was with had obviously been making excuses and trying to explain it to people all day. The sooner they get a normal automatic in there the better. You shouldn't have to work around the transmission to drive a car normally.
compliance says:
10:47 AM, 06/12/08
Sorry, I have been waiting for the Smart Transmission Post to get that rant out of my system. I feel much better now.
estreka says:
03:58 PM, 06/12/08
I would relate the Smart to Pop Rocks:
1. Really cool and different
2. Very sensational
3. Agonizingly painful in large doses
opfreak says:
07:47 PM, 06/12/08
to me that fabric looks cheap and worn. like a shirt that was washed and ran through the drier too many times
dougtheeng says:
06:00 AM, 06/13/08
Is that a tire pressure button?
cx7lover says:
09:22 AM, 06/13/08
It's just a dummy light, I don't see it as being a button, maybe it is though.
They really need to get a new automated manual together, or a automatic with a torque converter. I swear I can see this thing jolt when it shifts on the streets.
autoboy16 says:
07:06 PM, 06/14/08
This thing needs a turbo and a DSG like tranny! A 120hp 100lbs ft would make this car much more comfortable! I couldn't drive this car without a turbo, AC, power steering, and that panoramic sunroof.
This car isn't that bad. NOT GOOD, but not bad. Can't wait until people mix and match body color panals!
-Cj