2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive: Complete City EV Review

The 2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive redefines urban mobility with its tiny footprint, electric powertrain, and surprising refinements. This fourth-generation model builds on its predecessors by boosting range to around 100 miles, slashing charging times, and widening the cabin for better comfort. Ideal for commuters dodging traffic and hunting parking spots, it delivers instant torque and smooth acceleration without emissions.

Powertrain and Performance Highlights

At the heart of the 2017 Fortwo Electric Drive sits an 80-hp electric motor paired with a 17.6-kWh lithium-ion battery, producing 118 lb-ft of torque for peppy low-speed launches. Smart claims 0-62 mph in 11.5 seconds, a figure echoed across tests showing a capable trot rather than a sprint, perfect for city cut-and-thrust. The single-speed transmission ensures seamless power delivery, eliminating gearshift lurches found in gas versions.

Top speed caps at 81 mph, with some tests noting 85 mph indicated, making highway runs stable but not for overtaking trucks. Regenerative braking aids efficiency but lacks aggressive one-pedal driving, a minor range optimization miss. An ECO mode further conserves energy by limiting speed and acceleration, suiting hypermiling urbanites.

• Instant low-end grunt excels in stop-start traffic, scooting from 15-25 mph effortlessly.
• Smooth electric whirr is the only cabin sound, with an optional pedestrian alert tunable via grille speaker.
• Refined suspension, aided by battery weight, absorbs city potholes better than gas models.

Design and Dimensions for Urban Agility

Measuring just 106 inches long with a 6.95m turning circle – the tightest on sale – the Fortwo parks in spaces others ignore. Its 110mm wider stance versus prior EVs enhances stability and shoulder room, banishing the old shoulder-to-shoulder squeeze. The upright, high driving position offers excellent visibility, aided by large mirrors and minimal rear blind spots.

Available as Coupe or Cabrio convertible, it introduces foglights with cornering function and a Brabus Sport package for 2017. Rear-hinged doors ease access, though the short wheelbase can feel twitchy during sudden maneuvers due to snappy steering. Crosswind-assist steadies it on highways, countering gusts or truck slipstreams.

Interior Comfort and Tech Upgrades

The cabin feels airy for two, with generous headroom, adequate legroom, and a shared center armrest – a first for Fortwo. Softer plastics, more storage cubbies, and supportive seats handle 75-100 mile trips comfortably. A hooded instrument panel displays energy use and battery status, while the optional 7-inch touchscreen handles navigation and infotainment, innovative for using smartphones as screens.

Two six-footers fit reasonably, though cargo is limited to small bags behind seats above the rear-mounted motor. The Electric Drive’s battery placement improves ride compliance over gas models, reducing jitteriness.

Battery, Charging, and Real-World Range

The 17.6-kWh pack charges to 80% in 2.5 hours via the upgraded 7.2-kW onboard charger – half the time of the prior 3.3-kW unit. Overnight on 110V suits short commutes; owners report 100+ miles in ECO city mode without HVAC. Real-world range hovers at 75-100 miles, halved on freeways with climate on.

Owners praise it for local errands, work runs, and easy parking, calling it zippy and freeway-capable despite limits. One notes: “Perfect for our needs… charges every other night”.

Owner Experiences and Reliability Feedback

Aggregate ratings average 4.2/5, with high marks for performance (4.1), efficiency (4.3), and fun. Fans love the security feel despite size, quick get-up-and-go, and maneuverability. Drawbacks include modest range for long trips and tight rear space. Retirees and couples deem it ideal for short runs, economical, and a blast to drive.

• Positive: Brisk acceleration, easy charging, urban agility.
• Critiques: Range anxiety on highways, interior room for more than two.

Safety and Driving Dynamics

Quick steering and light brakes suit congested streets, with sedan-like highway poise from added width and aids. Visibility shines, though the compact form demands caution in sudden swerves. Safety tech scores 3.4/5, adequate for city use.

Purchasing Considerations: Pros, Cons, and Verdict

Pros: Unbeatable parking, instant EV torque, refined ride, quick charging.
Cons: Limited range/highway passing power, minimal cargo.

For city dwellers, the 2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive is a lively, emissions-free gem. It shines in daily duties but falters for road trips. If urban zipping matches your lifestyle, it’s a smart pick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)