2009-2015 smart fortwo coupe 1.0L

Overview

The 2009-2015 Smart Fortwo Coupe represents the second generation (W451) of the iconic microcar, which marked the brand’s official entry into the United States market. Designed by the Swatch-Mercedes Art (smart) collaboration, the Fortwo was engineered to solve urban congestion and parking challenges. Its defining feature is the “Tridion” safety cell—a high-strength steel frame that provides structural integrity despite the vehicle’s diminutive footprint. Unlike its predecessor, the second-generation model grew slightly in length to meet US crash safety standards, allowing it to be officially imported and sold through a dedicated dealer network.

Under the rear deck lies a 1.0-liter Mitsubishi-sourced three-cylinder engine, paired with a five-speed automated manual transmission. While the vehicle was criticized by some automotive journalists for its slow gear changes and firm ride, its cult following appreciated its extreme maneuverability, ease of parking, and distinct aesthetic. The Fortwo was positioned as a premium city car, offering a high level of customization and a surprisingly spacious cabin for two occupants. Throughout its production run, it remained a symbol of minimalist urban mobility, eventually paving the way for the brand’s later transition toward all-electric powertrains.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	smart
Model	fortwo coupe
Model Year	2009-2015
Generation	W451
Trim	Pure, Passion
Body Style	2-door hatchback
Vehicle Segment	City Car
Vehicle Class	Two Seaters
Market	USA
Platform	W451
Assembly Plant	Hambach, France
Country of Origin	France
Production Start	2007
Production End	2015
VIN Identifier	WME
Base MSRP	$12,490
Destination Charge	$750
Total MSRP	$13,240
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	Mitsubishi 3B2
Engine Name	3B21
Engine Code	–
Engine Configuration	Inline-3
Displacement	1.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke	72.0 x 81.8 mm
Compression Ratio	10.5:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Multi-point fuel injection
Valve Train	DOHC 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	3.5 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	5W-30
Horsepower	70 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque	68 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Redline	6500 rpm
Drivetrain	Rear-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (AM5)
Final Drive Ratio	4.13
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane	91 AKI
EPA City MPG	34
EPA Highway MPG	39
EPA Combined MPG	36
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	6.5
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	8.7
Estimated Driving Range	330 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$1,350
CO₂ Emissions	245 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	7
Smog Rating	6
Performance
0-30 mph	4.5 s
0-60 mph	12.8 s
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	19.2 s
Top Speed	90 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	125 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.78g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	26.5 lb/hp
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	106.1
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	61.4
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	71.0
Height (in)	60.7
Wheelbase (in)	73.5
Front Track (in)	50.4
Rear Track (in)	54.6
Ground Clearance (in)	5.2
Curb Weight (lbs)	1852
GVWR (lbs)	2425
Towing Capacity (lbs)	0
Payload Capacity (lbs)	573
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	45.4
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	7.8
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	12.0
Turning Circle	28.7 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	–
NHTSA Frontal Crash	–
NHTSA Side Crash	–
NHTSA Rollover	–
IIHS Award	–
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	Acceptable
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	Optional Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog
Apple CarPlay	No
Android Auto	No
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	2-Speaker
Speaker Count	2
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Roadside Assistance	4 years / 50,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	No
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Mitsubishi Motors, Japan
Transmission Supplier	Getrag
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	5.5 Quarts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	110
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

In the used car market, the 2009-2015 Smart Fortwo is regarded as a niche vehicle with polarizing appeal; it is highly prized by urban dwellers for its ability to park in spaces no other car can fit, but it is often criticized for its jerky automated manual transmission and stiff suspension. Reliability is generally decent regarding the engine block, but prospective buyers should be wary of the clutch actuator and transmission control module, which are known failure points that can be costly to repair. Additionally, because the car requires premium fuel and has a small fuel tank, the cost-per-mile savings are often offset by frequent stops at the pump. While it is not a highway cruiser, its unique design and low entry price make it a compelling, albeit quirky, choice for those who prioritize footprint and maneuverability above all else.