High mileage, low appeal for Smart ForTwo

With gasoline prices rising almost daily, the 2011 Smart ForTwo would seem right for the times. Large enough for two people, quick enough for most commutes, it is estimated by the federal government at a combined 36 miles per gallon in local and highway driving, making it the most fuel-efficient car in America that isn't a hybrid or a diesel.

The Smart is offered in coupe and convertible models starting at $12,635 with freight - and without air-conditioning, a radio or even power steering. For 2011 it has some aesthetic upgrades, a new interior and four more air bags.

Unfortunately, it's a disappointment to drive, with an "automated" transmission that operates like a manual being driven badly; tire, wind and engine noise that even the optional "surround sound" stereo system struggles to overcome; and the need for premium gas.

At 36 mpg, a Smart should use 6.4 gallons of gas in the average American's 230 miles of driving per week. At Wednesday's Long Island average for premium, $3.847, that would total $24.62. Not bad, but driving the same number of miles would cost only 38 cents more in a five-passenger Ford Fiesta with automatic transmission, which averages 33 mpg but runs on regular gas.

While the 2010 Smart got decent ratings from the federal government and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, any vehicle is at a disadvantage in a crash with a heavier one and, on America's streets, almost everything on four wheels is heavier than the 1,800-pound Smart.

The Smart's ride is tolerable, with more fore and aft pitching over bumps than in other small cars. But the tall and lightweight Smart is vulnerable to crosswinds at highway speeds. And Consumer Reports magazine says its reader/owner feedback indicates the Smart is worse than average in reliability.

Smart claims the sluggish shifting of the transmission is a necessary price to pay for the added power and fuel economy of what is in essence a manual transmission that shifts by itself. You be the judge.

Introduced to America in January 2008, the Smart won many hearts at first for its adorable looks and seemingly intelligent design. More than 24,600 were sold nationwide that year, but sales slumped to 14,595 in 2009 and 5,927 last year. According to Automotive News, 5,212 Fiestas were sold in the United States last year. Smart sales rose in December, January and last month along with gasoline prices, but are still below their initial levels. The Smart dealership in St. James closed last year, leaving the Roslyn store as the only one on Long Island.

2011 Smart ForTwo Passion Coupe

Vehicle Tested:

Engine: 1.0-liter, three-cylinder, 70 hp.

Fuel: Premium recommended

Transmission: Five-speed "automatedmanual," rear-wheel drive

Safety: Eight air bags; front disc, rear drum brakes with antilock and stability control; tire pressure monitoring

Place of Assembly: Hambach, France

Cargo Room: 12 cubic feet (floor to roof behind seats)

EPA fuel economy estimates: 33 mpg city, 41 highway

Price as driven: $16,680 with freight

Bottom line: Wait until it grows up