2008 smart fortwo pure 2dr Hatchback (1.0L 3cyl 5AM)

Great second generation of this car. Local used car dealer was importing "used" first gens and selling for 25-30K. Wife got one of the first to be titled in Washington, and loves every minute in it. She flogs the crap ot of this car and still gets 35MPG, drive it smart and get over 40mpg. Great car to use a a city DD, but don't own as an only car. If you travel more than 75 miles one way, you may want to consider another vehicle because there isn't a cruise control.

After 13 months of wait (reserved mine on the first day these became available in the US) finally got our car yesterday (5/24). I had driven this on several occasions while on my business trips to Europe and loved these.

With the gas prices going where they are, this thing came in just the right time. My current commute car consumes about $80/wk in gas (well that's what fun of driving a 540i is about). I guess I will pay that much in gas for a month's commute in this car. Found this to be a much cheaper option compared to the Prius both on initial price as well as ownership over the next 5-6 years. Yes this is NOT a GREEN car and does not use alternative fuel, but it sure saves gas and gives better highway mileage than the Prius.

OK now for the car. We got the Smart ForTwo Passion with a few options - blue metallic paint, silver tridiron, and the comfort package. Wife and kids had not seen this car before and they were really amazed at how small this was. When parked next to our BMW this was almost a third in length and close to 60% the breadth of the BMW.

The experience at the dealership was short and quick. We got the car out of the lot within 45 minutes of getting there. Once on the road the fun started.

Initial impression - one-day old - The car has a rough transmission when it is pushed too hard. As soon as I got used to the acceleration, things are beginning to feel better. Have already put on 130 miles on it in a day.

Do not buy this car if you are expecting to put pedal to the metal. If you want to save on gas for your daily commute, this may be useful,