Introducing the Smart #2 (2026): Evolving the Iconic City Car

The Smart brand is making a comeback with the new Smart #2, marking a significant return for this iconic city car more than two years after the discontinuation of the Smart Fortwo in March 2024. This new model, the fourth generation in the Smart lineage, continues the legacy of compact and agile urban mobility, with around 1.5 million units of previous models sold since 1997. Unveiled ahead of its debut at the Paris Motor Show, the #2 is designed to be the ideal solution for bustling city environments.

Compact Yet Capable

One of the biggest challenges in revamping the Smart was integrating modern safety features and driving aids without compromising its compact size. The Smart #2 measures 2.75 meters in length, just 5 cm longer than its predecessor, ensuring it retains the nimble characteristics of earlier models. With a width of 1.67 meters (without mirrors), this car remains well-suited for urban driving.

Jointly owned by Mercedes-Benz and Chinese automaker Geely, Smart has tapped into the design prowess of Mercedes to create the aesthetic of the #2 at the Sophia Antipolis design center in France. The design pays homage to the original Fortwo, displaying a chic yet playful character that aligns with Smart’s heritage. It features pronounced wheel arches with 15-inch standard wheels, upgrading to 16 inches for higher-end trims.

The front end showcases elements reminiscent of the Fortwo EQ phase 2, complete with a large mesh grille and almond-shaped triangular headlights. However, unlike its predecessors, the #2 forgoes a continuous light strip. At the rear, the two-part hatch mirrors the previous model's layout, while the rounded taillights echo the brand's logo. A key safety feature is the Tridion safety cell, discreetly integrated yet capable of supporting over 4 tons.

Enhanced Interior Space

Despite being compact on the outside, the Smart #2 boasts a surprisingly spacious interior. The dashboard design harkens back to the original model, featuring a wave form dictated by the passenger airbag space, while a central 10.1-inch touchscreen is angled for easier visibility by the driver. A vertical wireless charger adds practicality for drivers on the go. The absence of a central console allows easy access and mobility between front seats, a handy feature in tight parking spaces.

The cabin includes thoughtful storage solutions such as a storage compartment between the seats, two cup holders, and an armrest that can be lifted. The placement of window controls under the screen increases cabin space by creating slimmer doors. A glass roof is standard on higher trims, flooding the interior with natural light. The trunk space has received a boost to 305 liters—45 liters more than the Fortwo EQ—and can expand to 527 liters with the front passenger seat adjusted forward.

Electrification and Performance

The Smart #2 is built on a new platform known as the Electric Compact Architecture (ECA), developed by Geely and Mercedes. The model is powered by a rear-mounted electric motor rated at 82 horsepower, matching the output of the previous Fortwo EQ, and is powered by a CATL-sourced LFP battery with a gross capacity of 35.8 kWh (34.5 kWh net). It offers a range of 290 km according to the WLTP cycle, significantly improving on the previous model's performance and narrowing the gap against competitors like the Renault Twingo E-Tech and Citroën ë-C3.

Weighing just 1,140 kg, the Smart #2’s lightweight contributes to its efficiency, although it is about 400 kg heavier than the first Fortwo. Mechanical advancements include a five-link rear suspension, providing a more sophisticated driving experience, while a 50/50 weight distribution and wider rear tires enhance agility. The turning radius is a mere 6.95 meters, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

For charging capabilities, the Smart #2 features a standard 7.4 kW AC charger, with an upgrade to 11 kW available on higher trims. It supports rapid charging up to 65 kW, enabling a quick 10 to 80% charge in about 20 minutes. Additionally, the vehicle includes vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology, allowing users to power electronic devices from the car.

Affordability and Market Position

Despite its advanced features and technology, the Smart #2 remains competitively priced, starting at €19,990. This price point is notably lower than that of the revamped Fortwo EQ from 2020, which began at €26,500. The next trim up is priced at €20,990, featuring a heated driver’s seat and an upgraded 11 kW charger. The Premium version comes in at €24,490 and the limited edition ‘Couture,’ capped at 999 units, stands at €25,690. However, as the car will be produced in China, it won't benefit from the financial advantages previously available to its predecessor, which was manufactured in France.

Order books for the Smart #2 have opened as of October 13, 2026, with initial deliveries expected in the first half of 2027. Future variations, including a convertible and a four-door version, may emerge thanks to the flexible ECA platform, which can accommodate an increase in wheelbase up to 2.50 meters.

Key Highlights

• The Smart #2 effectively modernizes the classic compact city car while addressing necessary safety updates, managing to maintain a small footprint.
• Although it strictly seats two, its design and technology will appeal to urban residents seeking efficient transportation, competing against models like the Renault Twingo, Nissan Pixo, and Dacia Spring.
• The return of Smart as a brand committed to urban mobility is likely to resonate well with enthusiasts of its iconic designs while attracting new customers looking for sustainability in small car formats.

Pricing Overview for Smart #2 (as of October 2026)

Smart #2 Key Specifications