About half a year after the market launch of the Smart Fortwo now comes the convertible of the two-seater: At the IAA (17 until 27 September) presents the open version of the City-Flitzer for the first time the public. From mid-November, the convertible can be ordered in February come the first models to the dealers.
Smart has remained faithful to the concept of the predecessor model: For example, the fabric roof can be moved back as a large folding sunroof, but the roof can also disappear completely to the rear. If you remove the two roof pillars, you have a complete convertible. The spars can be stored in a small compartment behind the tailgate.
At the push of a button, the soft top opens within twelve seconds, even while driving and up to maximum speed. With the vehicle key you can open it from the surrounding area. Buyers have the choice between three colors: red, black and a denim look called "blue denim". The glass rear window is heated.
In dimensions (2,69 meters short), technology and design, the convertible largely corresponds to the closed two-seater. A slightly narrower and slightly more inclined B-pillar should make the open variant more dynamic. The torsional stiffness has improved the engineers by about 15 percent compared to its predecessor.
As engines are the two-cylinder petrol engine with 52 kW / 71 PS and 66 kW / 90 PS to choose from. Both units can be combined with the five-speed gearbox or the fully automatic dual-clutch gearbox. The prices are not yet known. The predecessor model costs almost 14.000 Euro, the closed version of the current generation is available from just 11.000 Euro.
Author: Hanne Lübbehüsen / SP-X