Undefined Smart ForTwo Pulse 71Bhp: City Review & Key Specs

The Smart ForTwo Pulse with its 71bhp engine redefines urban mobility, offering a blend of fun, efficiency, and practicality in a tiny package. Designed for congested streets and tight parking spots, this microcar delivers surprising performance from its compact three-cylinder powerplant.

Design and Dimensions: Built for the Urban Jungle

Measuring just under three meters long, the Smart ForTwo Pulse stands out with its diminutive footprint, making it ideal for navigating narrow city lanes. The Pulse trim adds sporty flair with unique alloy wheels and bold color options, enhancing its playful aesthetic without compromising functionality.

Its narrow width—barely wider than a motorcycle—allows drivers to slip through traffic effortlessly. The rigid Tridion safety cell provides structural integrity, wrapped in plastic panels that are cheap to replace if dinged in tight spots. Inside, the cabin surprises with ample headroom and legroom for two adults, feeling far roomier than expected.

• Length: Approximately 2.69 meters for superior maneuverability.
• Width: Narrow profile eases lane changes in heavy traffic.
• Height: Tall stance improves visibility over surrounding vehicles.

Powertrain and Performance: Nimble Rather Than Quick

At the heart is a 1.0-liter three-cylinder petrol engine producing 71bhp, paired with a semi-automatic gearbox in Pulse models. This setup shines in stop-start city driving, accelerating briskly to 40mph—sufficient for most urban scenarios.

Highway performance reveals limitations; top speed hovers around 90mph, with noticeable engine strain on inclines. Yet, the lightweight chassis keeps it stable up to 70mph, though crosswinds can make it twitchy at higher speeds. The micro hybrid drive (mhd) system cuts the engine at idle, boosting town efficiency dramatically.

Manual mode via paddle shifters unlocks more responsive shifts than full auto, reducing jerkiness during gear changes.

Handling and Driving Dynamics: Joy in Every Turn

Steering is a highlight—light and precise with power assistance, enabling razor-sharp turns thanks to a tight turning circle. City drivers praise its agility for weaving through traffic and U-turns in spaces most cars couldn’t dream of.

On twisty roads, the short wheelbase delivers go-kart-like responsiveness, though suspension can feel firm over bumps. Stability control keeps it composed, but avoid pushing limits in poor weather. Power steering is recommended, as its absence makes low-speed maneuvers heavy.

Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs: A Budget-Friendly Choice

Exceptional economy is a forte, with real-world figures around 4.2L/100km (over 60mpg) in mixed driving. The mhd tech improves urban mpg by nearly 30% via start-stop functionality. Low insurance groups and minimal road tax keep ownership costs down, ideal for high-mileage commuters.

Maintenance is straightforward due to simple mechanics, though parts availability varies by region. Fuel tank holds about 33 liters, offering a practical range for daily use.

Interior Comfort and Practicality: Smart Space Utilization

The two-seater layout prioritizes driver and front passenger, with a surprisingly spacious feel. Boot space is modest at 220 liters, expandable by folding the passenger seat flat. Pulse spec includes air conditioning, Bluetooth, and a decent stereo for enhanced comfort.

Build quality impresses with durable plastics and a modern dashboard. Visibility is excellent, aided by large glass areas and periscope mirrors.

• Seating: Supportive buckets with good adjustment.
• Storage: Deep door pockets and central console.
• Infotainment: Basic but functional touchscreen options in later models.

Safety Features: Protection in a Tiny Package

Despite its size, the ForTwo earns solid crash ratings thanks to the Tridion cell, airbags, and ABS. Twin front airbags and optional extras like ESP provide peace of mind. Its low mass means gentle impacts in rear-enders, a boon in traffic.

Trims and Specifications: Choosing the Pulse

The Pulse sits mid-range, balancing equipment and price. It features 15-inch alloys, sports seats, and the semi-auto ‘box over base Pure or plush Passion. Engine choices include this 71bhp unit, torquier 84bhp turbo, or efficient diesel.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Appeal

• Pros: Unbeatable parking ease, fun urban handling, stellar fuel economy, low costs.
• Cons: Limited power on highways, minimal rear space, firm ride on poor roads.

Real-World Ownership: Buyer Insights

Owners rave about daily usability, from zipping to work to weekend errands. Reliability is generally good, though early automated manuals could be clunky—later versions improve. Resale holds decently for well-maintained examples.

Competitors Comparison

The ForTwo edges out in maneuverability but trails in space and highway prowess.

FAQs

Is the Smart ForTwo Pulse good for highways?

It’s adequate up to 70mph but labors at higher speeds or on steep grades.

How easy is parking with this car?

Extremely—its size and turning circle make it a parking dream.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Up to 65mpg combined, excelling in city with start-stop.

Any common issues?

Gearbox jerkiness in older autos; opt for updated models.

Suitable for tall drivers?

Yes, generous headroom accommodates most.

Final Verdict: Niche but Brilliant

The Smart ForTwo Pulse 71bhp thrives where others falter—in the concrete maze of city life. Its charm lies in simplicity and joy, not outright speed. For urban dwellers, it’s a smart pick; highway heroes, look elsewhere.