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The headline refers to the 2016 Smart Fortwo, reviewed by Roberto Baldwin for Engadget in September 2015—not a new 2026 Mercedes-Benz model. Baldwin’s verdict was that the Fortwo made its strongest case in tight city streets: it was exceptionally easy to turn around and park, and felt more like a complete modern car than its predecessor. Its two-seat cabin, small cargo area and modest power remained real compromises.
Why the 2016 Fortwo made sense in a city
At a reported 8.8 feet long, the Fortwo was built around a simple urban advantage: it takes up little space. Baldwin found the short car particularly handy for U-turns and for turning around on narrow streets after missing a turn or reaching a dead end during his Portland drive.
The review reports a 22.8-foot turning radius and attributes to Smart the claim that it was the smallest in the United States. That is a claim reported in 2015, not a current comparison of vehicles. The combination of compact length and tight turning circle is the Fortwo’s clearest appeal if your routine involves close parking and cramped streets.
What it was like to drive
Modest power, especially on hills
The manual version Baldwin discussed used a three-cylinder engine rated at 89 hp and 100 lb-ft of torque. He found it short on hill-climbing excitement. Engadget reported zero-to-60-mph times of a little over 10 seconds for both manual and six-speed automatic versions; those are figures in that historical review, not independently verified results for every trim.
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#1 Best Overall
- 🏎️[Pullback Pickup Truck] 1:32 Diecast for Smart Fortwo metal car and rubber tires recommended for boys aged 3 years old and up, off-road model truck has power wheels with rubber tires, which is with pullback function.
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More composed than its size suggests
Despite its tiny footprint, Baldwin found the Fortwo’s handling better than expected through turns. He pointed to its rigid Tridion safety cell and wider stance, while noting that stability and traction control intervened to curb oversteer and could not be switched off. The review also says the 2016 model received more forgiving suspension.
Equipment that made it feel more complete
Baldwin described the 2016 Fortwo as a more fully equipped car than its predecessor. The review lists Bluetooth hands-free calling, cruise control, power steering and power windows among the additions to standard equipment, and also mentions crosswind assist.
The article also describes Cross Connect, a beta companion app that could control radio functions, show vehicle information, provide a dialer and surface crowdsourced parking spots sized for a Fortwo. Baldwin reported navigation errors during the demonstration. The app’s beta status and described functions are historical, not confirmation of present-day availability or operation.
Rank #2
- 【Applicable Models】This car radio is compatible with Mercedes Benz Smart Fortwo 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 and features a plug-and-play wiring harness. For inquiries, ask MAHVEC via Amazon anytime: Go to "Sold by MAHVEC" and select "Ask a question."
- 【Wireless Carplay & Android Auto】Wireless connectivity for CarPlay and Android Auto delivers superior voice - assist control. Effortlessly access your phone's apps, music, navigation, and calls while driving. No cables needed—just connect and drive
- 【2GB+64GB Upgrade Android Car Stereo】The in-dash Head unit for Mercedes Smart Fortwo comes with upgraded Android operating system, 2GB ram and 64GB rom ensures android car stereo runs smoothly. Equipped with DSP EQ, Build-in GPS and WiFi, 26 UIs, support wireless carplay android auto, SW, RDS FM Radio and mirror link
- 【WiFi Connection & Build-in GPS Chip】This Android radio connects to WiFi, allowing you to download various apps to enjoy music, use online GPS services such as Navitel or iGO, and update offline GPS data. The car GPS navigation system features a built-in positioning chip, supporting GPS, GLONASS, and SBAS.
- 【IPS Touch Screen 26UIs & Build-in DSP】1080P IPS touchscreen car audio system for Smart Fortwo, 2.5D toughened glass resists knocks and scratches while delivering razor-sharp visuals. 26 user themes, split-screen multitasking. Lossless-grade DSP with eight EQ curves (Pop, Rock, Jazz, Classical, User etc)—slide your finger to shape the sound in real time
Cabin, passengers and cargo: the main trade-offs
The Fortwo has two seats, so it carries the driver and just one passenger. Baldwin estimated that the trunk might fit “maybe four grocery bags.” Folding the passenger seat opened up about five feet of cargo length, but that flexibility does not change the basic limitation: there is no rear seat for extra people or luggage.
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In the review’s original market context, Baldwin contrasted the Fortwo with the Fiat 500 Pop, describing the Fiat as longer but more practical for passengers and cargo because it had a rear seat and a larger trunk. He also named the Ford Fiesta, Nissan Versa Note and Honda Fit in the broader economic-car comparison, but the article does not provide model-year-matched figures for a full comparison among them.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Phone holder, price and launch details
Engadget described an optional Smart smartphone holder priced at $100 in the 2015 review. It attached to the dashboard, charged a phone and connected to the entertainment system through a dash port; the review said it could work with navigation and audio apps beyond Smart’s own app. That historical description does not establish current stock or fitment for every Fortwo. Anyone seeking a holder for a specific car should confirm compatibility and availability before buying.
Rank #3
- [Perfect Fitment]: Compatible with Smart Fortwo 2008-2016 Coupe/Convertible --- Rear Window Glass (Left and Right Side); The Extended Length is 17.52", not 12.01"!
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The review reported a launch-era starting price of $14,650 and said the car would reach showrooms in September 2015. It also anticipated an electric version in 2016. These are historical launch details, not current prices, availability or a guide to today’s used market.
Who the review’s verdict fits
Baldwin’s conclusion followed a two-day drive: “But when your daily commute involves narrow roads, U-turns and a never-ending search for parking, the new Fortwo is a solid commuter that actually feels like a modern car.” That is one reviewer’s assessment of the 2016 model, not a present-day buying recommendation. The review supports a clear distinction: the Fortwo’s maneuverability was its standout strength, while limited seating and cargo capacity and modest power shaped what owners would have to accept.
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