The Smart Forfour II (W453) 0.9 (90 Hp) is a city car produced by Smart, a microcar manufacturer jointly owned by Mercedes-Benz and Geely. Introduced in 2014 and continuing through 2019, the W453 represented a significant departure from its predecessor, the first-generation Forfour. Unlike the original, which was based on a Mitsubishi platform, the W453 Forfour shared its underpinnings with the Renault Twingo V, resulting in a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration. This generation aimed to address criticisms of the original Forfour’s practicality and driving dynamics, offering a more refined and engaging experience within the compact city car segment. While Smart vehicles were never officially sold in the United States during this period, the Forfour was a popular choice in European markets, particularly for urban commuters seeking a small, fuel-efficient, and maneuverable vehicle.
Smart Forfour II (W453) 0.9: A Detailed Overview
The Forfour II, specifically the 0.9-liter 90 horsepower variant, targeted buyers prioritizing fuel economy and ease of parking in congested urban environments. Its compact dimensions and nimble handling made it well-suited for navigating narrow streets and tight parking spaces. The rear-engine layout, while unconventional, contributed to a surprisingly spacious interior for its size and improved weight distribution. The W453 Forfour was available in a variety of trim levels and customization options, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle. The 0.9-liter engine, a turbocharged three-cylinder unit, provided a balance between performance and efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily commuting.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Smart Forfour II (W453) 0.9 is a 898 cc (54.8 cu. in.) turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine, designated M 281.910. This engine produces 90 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 135 Nm (99.57 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2500 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler enhance performance, delivering a power-to-weight ratio of 10.2 kg/Hp. The engine features multi-port manifold fuel injection and a compression ratio of 9.5:1. Paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, the Forfour 0.9 achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11.2 seconds and a 0-60 mph time of 10.6 seconds. Its maximum speed is 165 km/h (102.53 mph). Fuel economy is a key strength, with combined fuel consumption rated at 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 99 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Smart Forfour II (W453) is a five-door hatchback with seating for four passengers. Its design is characterized by its short wheelbase, compact overall length of 3495 mm (137.6 in), and relatively wide stance of 1665 mm (65.55 in). The rear-engine layout allows for a surprisingly practical interior space, with a trunk capacity ranging from 185 liters (6.53 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 975 liters (34.43 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The Forfour’s interior is designed with functionality in mind, offering a comfortable and user-friendly environment. The vehicle’s turning circle of 8.65 m (28.38 ft) further enhances its maneuverability in urban settings. The Forfour’s styling, while compact, aimed for a modern and appealing aesthetic, aligning with Smart’s brand identity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Smart |
| Model | Forfour |
| Generation | Forfour II (W453) |
| Type (Engine) | 0.9 (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 99 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 135 Nm @ 2500 rpm (99.57 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 281.910 |
| Engine displacement | 898 cm3 (54.8 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.2 mm (2.84 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 73.1 mm (2.88 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.9 l (11.52 US qt | 9.59 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 920 kg (2028.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 185 l (6.53 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 975 l (34.43 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 28 l (7.4 US gal | 6.16 UK gal) |
| Length | 3495 mm (137.6 in.) |
| Width | 1665 mm (65.55 in.) |
| Height | 1554 mm (61.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2494 mm (98.19 in.) |
| Front track | 1467 mm (57.76 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1429 mm (56.26 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 8.65 m (28.38 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 165/65 R 15; 185/60 R 15; 185/45 R 16; 205/50 R 16 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.0J x 15; 5.5J x 15; 6.0J x 16; 6.5J x 16 |
