Used Smart ForTwo Mk3: 5 Essential Buying Checks

The third-generation Smart ForTwo, launched in 2015, redefined urban mobility with its ultra-compact footprint and innovative design. Tailored for city dwellers, this two-seater coupe or cabriolet excels in tight spaces while offering surprising interior quality and driving enjoyment. Whether opting for petrol or electric variants, buyers get a vehicle that’s nimble, efficient for short trips, and exempt from many urban restrictions. However, its premium pricing and limitations on highways make it a niche choice.

Why Choose a Used Smart ForTwo Mk3?

In a market flooded with SUVs and family hatchbacks, the ForTwo stands out for those prioritizing parking ease and fun over practicality. Measuring just 2.69 meters long, it slips into the smallest spots, making it ideal for congested cities. The shared platform with Renault Twingo brought refined handling, a quieter cabin, and better ride quality compared to predecessors.

Used models from 2015 onwards hold appeal due to depreciation: new prices started high, but now low-mileage examples offer great value. Petrol versions deliver around 50mpg in mixed driving, while the EQ electric model suits zero-emission zones with real-world ranges of 60-65 miles. Owners praise its stability at speed, firm steering, and premium-feeling interior with high-grade plastics.

Available Models and Trim Levels

The Mk3 ForTwo came in coupe and cabriolet body styles, with petrol (1.0-liter three-cylinder, 71hp) and electric (EQ, 81hp motor) powertrains. Trims evolved from Passion and Prime to Premium, Proxy, and Ultimate, adding features like touchscreens, heated seats, and cruise control.

• Passion/Prime: Entry-level with air-con, Bluetooth, and basic alloys.
• Premium/Proxy: Upgrades to navigation, rear camera, and panoramic roof.
• Ultimate: Top-spec with leather, digital cluster, and blind-spot assist.

Cabriolets add a folding fabric roof for open-air drives, perfect for summer city jaunts. Electric EQ models gained appeal post-2017 with improved batteries, though early ones had shorter ranges.

Engines and Performance Breakdown

The petrol engine pairs with a five-speed automated manual gearbox, prioritizing economy over outright pace. Zero-to-60 takes 10.8 seconds, with a 90mph top speed—adequate for urban use but leisurely on motorways. Real-world fuel use averages 38-50mpg, with some owners hitting 60mpg on highways.

The Smart EQ uses an 17.6kWh battery (post-2018), offering 84 miles officially but 60-65 in practice. It’s zippy in town, exempt from ULEZ charges, but range anxiety limits longer journeys. Home charging takes 3-4 hours on a 7.4kW wallbox.

Transmission quirks persist: the auto-manual can jerk during shifts, though manual mode helps. Post-2017 updates smoothed this.

Driving Experience: City Star, Highway Compromiser

Where the ForTwo shines is urban agility. Rear-wheel drive and a 65/35 weight bias provide playful handling, with wider rear tires ensuring stability. Ride quality absorbs potholes better than older models, thanks to Renault underpinnings. Owners note excellent brakes and precise steering.

Highway cruising reveals limits: wind noise increases, and the short wheelbase causes wandering. It’s stable up to 70mph but feels out of its element beyond. Cabriolets amplify fun with wind-in-hair vibes but compromise refinement.

Practicality and Interior Comfort

Don’t expect family-hauler space—this is a two-seater with 7-8 cubic feet of cargo behind seats, expanding to 12 with seats folded. A front trunk (frunk) adds minor storage. Surprisingly, legroom and headroom suit taller drivers, with supportive seats and quality materials.

Infotainment includes a 7-inch touchscreen (higher trims), Apple CarPlay/Android Auto from 2019, and clear displays. Visibility is superb, aiding parking. Cabriolets offer trunk space for roof operation.

Reliability and Ownership Costs

Reliability is mixed: Warranty Direct ranks it mid-pack (56/100), with owner reviews polarizing—many love it, others cite dealer issues. Common faults include dampness in cabriolets, battery drain in early EQs, and gearbox glitches. Petrol models fare better long-term.

UK sales are low (1,581 in 2021), limiting parts availability, but Mercedes backing ensures quality. Insurance groups are low (2-12), road tax cheap (£190/year), and servicing affordable at £200-300. EQ running costs shine with cheap electricity, though battery warranties (8 years/62,000 miles) reassure.

Buying Tips: What to Check and Prices

Used prices: £6,000-£12,000 for petrol coupes (2015-2020), £10,000-£18,000 for low-mile EQs. Cabriolets add £1,000-£2,000. Aim for full service history, under 50,000 miles.

• Inspect for damp carpets/seals, especially cabriolets.
• Test transmission for smooth shifts; avoid jerky examples.
• For EQ: Check battery health via OBD scanner; verify charge port.
• Scan for accident damage—short length hides repairs.
• Ensure all electrics work: windows, screens, AC.

Best buys: 2018+ Premium trims for updated tech; post-2020 EQ for better range.

Safety Ratings and Features

Five stars from Euro NCAP in 2017, with strong adult/child protection. Standard crosswind assist and tensioners; options include lane-keeping and auto braking. NHTSA gives 3-4 stars overall, IIHS good ratings in most crashes.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Smart ForTwo Mk3 reliable?

Mixed owner feedback: petrol versions generally solid, but check service records. EQ batteries are warrantied long-term.

What’s the real-world range of the Smart EQ?

60-65 miles, ideal for city commutes but not motorways.

Can tall people fit comfortably?

Yes, surprising space for two adults up to 6’2″, with good head/legroom.

Petrol vs Electric: Which is better?

Petrol for versatility and lower upfront cost; EQ for zero emissions and cheap running in towns.

How much does a used ForTwo cost?

£6k-£18k depending on year, mileage, and spec.

Final Thoughts for Buyers

The Smart ForTwo Mk3 suits urban lifestyles perfectly, blending style, efficiency, and joy. Test drive extensively to confirm transmission feel and your tolerance for its quirks. With careful selection, it delivers years of smile-inducing drives.