2016-2017 smart fortwo coupe 0.9L

Overview

The 2016-2017 smart fortwo (C453) represents the third generation of the iconic micro-car, marking a significant departure from its predecessors in terms of refinement, width, and mechanical architecture. Developed in a collaborative partnership between Daimler AG and Renault, the third-generation fortwo shares its platform and powertrain components with the Renault Twingo. This strategic alliance allowed smart to address the primary criticisms of the previous generation—specifically the jerky automated manual transmission and the narrow, unstable-feeling track—by introducing a wider chassis and a more conventional manual transmission option for the US market.

Engineered primarily for dense urban environments, the fortwo retains its signature “tridion” safety cell, which provides a high level of structural rigidity despite the vehicle’s diminutive footprint. The 0.9-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, sourced from the Renault-Daimler alliance, provided a noticeable boost in power and torque compared to the naturally aspirated engines of the past. By increasing the vehicle’s width by four inches, engineers significantly improved handling stability and interior shoulder room, positioning the car as a premium “city-car” solution rather than just an economy commuter.

In the North American market, the 2016-2017 fortwo was marketed as a niche lifestyle vehicle, appealing to urban dwellers, eco-conscious commuters, and those requiring extreme ease of parking. Despite its engineering improvements, the model faced stiff competition from larger subcompacts and the rising popularity of crossovers. The third generation remains a notable chapter in automotive history for its bold attempt to normalize micro-mobility in a market traditionally dominated by full-size SUVs and trucks, eventually leading to the brand’s transition to an all-electric lineup in the United States.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	smart
Model	fortwo coupe
Model Year	2016-2017
Generation	C453
Trim	Pure, Passion, Prime, Proxy
Body Style	2-door Coupe
Vehicle Segment	City Car
Vehicle Class	Two Seaters
Market	USA
Platform	Renault-Daimler Edison
Assembly Plant	Hambach, France
Country of Origin	France
Production Start	2015
Production End	2019
VIN Identifier	WME
Base MSRP	$14,650
Destination Charge	$750
Total MSRP	$15,400
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	ICE
Engine Family	Renault H4Bt
Engine Name	M281
Engine Code	–
Engine Configuration	Inline-3
Displacement	0.9 Liters
Bore x Stroke	72.2 mm x 73.1 mm
Compression Ratio	9.5:1
Aspiration	Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery	Direct Injection
Valve Train	DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	3.7 qts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	5W-30
Horsepower	89 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Torque	100 lb-ft @ 2,500 rpm
Redline	6,500 rpm
Drivetrain	Rear-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Manual 5-spd
Final Drive Ratio	4.21
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane	91
EPA City MPG	31
EPA Highway MPG	39
EPA Combined MPG	34
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	6.9
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	8.7
Estimated Driving Range	300 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$1,350
CO₂ Emissions	260 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	7
Smog Rating	5
Performance
0-30 mph	3.9 s
0-60 mph	10.1 s
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	17.6 s
Top Speed	96 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	122 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.78 g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	0.045 hp/lb
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	106.1
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	65.5
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	74.2
Height (in)	61.2
Wheelbase (in)	73.7
Front Track (in)	57.5
Rear Track (in)	56.5
Ground Clearance (in)	4.5
Curb Weight (lbs)	1,984
GVWR (lbs)	2,645
Towing Capacity (lbs)	0
Payload Capacity (lbs)	661
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	45.4
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	9.2
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	12.0
Turning Circle	22.8 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	–
Side Impact	–
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	3.5-inch or 7-inch touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog with digital MID
Apple CarPlay	Optional
Android Auto	Optional
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	JBL Premium
Speaker Count	8
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	Valladolid, Spain
Transmission Supplier	Getrag
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	–
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	110
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2016-2017 smart fortwo is widely regarded as a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering a much more composed ride and a vastly superior manual transmission that makes the car genuinely fun to drive in urban settings. Reliability is generally considered solid for the drivetrain, though owners should be mindful of the turbocharged engine’s requirement for premium fuel and regular oil changes to prevent carbon buildup. Common issues to monitor include the electronic parking brake system and occasional software glitches within the infotainment unit. In the used market, the fortwo appeals to a specific demographic of city dwellers who prioritize parking ease and fuel efficiency above all else; however, prospective buyers should be aware that its limited cargo capacity and highway stability make it less suitable as a primary vehicle for long-distance commuting or families.