Smart Forfour (2014 – 2019) Review
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Smart Forfour (2014 – 2019) Verdict
Excellent turning circle. Very easy to park. Compact size. Low emissions. Proving to be more popular than Renault Twingo stablemate.
71PS engine lacks grunt out of town. More expensive than rival cars.
Find out more about the Smart Forfour (2014 – 2019)
At face value the Smart Forfour seems pointless, since most people would only buy a Smart for its tiny, two-seater layout - but in reality the Forfour is arguably a better buy. It is still very small, but it comes with the added practicality of a bigger boot, two more seats and numerous practical touches to make urban life easier.
In towns and cities the Forfour feels just as compact, lithe and nimble as the smaller Fortwo, with a tight turning circle that makes small spaces and multi-storey car parks a doddle. The light controls and short length make town-driving incredibly easy. Go for an entry-level 71PS 1.0-litre engine and there’s enough zip for narrow streets, but at higher speeds it feels out of breath and lacks any punch.
Thankfully, if you spend time on motorways and dual carriageways the 90PS 0.9-litre turbocharged petrol engine is perfectly capable, offering noticeably more torque and far better performance. Both engine options are clean and frugal, with emissions below 100g/km and official economy figures of 67.3mpg for the 71PS engine and 65.7mpg for the 90PS engine.
Obviously the main difference between the Fortwo and the Forfour is the addition of two rear seats. These have space underneath for storage, or they can be folded in two ways. Either the seat bottoms can be flipped down for storing tall items or the seat backs can be folded forward to give a good-sized, flat load area of 975 litres.
This added practicality comes at the expense of size – the Forfour is 800mm longer than the Fortwo. However in reality the Forfour is noticeably shorter than a Ford Fiesta, so it never feels like a large car. If you like the Smart styling and urban capability but the Fortwo’s lack of space has been offputting, the Forfour is precisely what you’ve been looking for.
The price is fairly steep though – rivals like the Volkswagen Up are just as practical and are as cheap to run, but cost less to buy. Similarly the new Renault Twingo, with which the Forfour shares the majority of its major components, is cheaper to buy. It is still easy to recommend the Forfour though, thanks to good levels of standard equipment and quirky styling.
Reviews for Smart Forfour (2014 – 2019)'s top 3 rivals
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Smart Forfour (2014 – 2019) handling and engines
- Engines range from 0.9 to 1.0 71 Automatic
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 34–54 mpg
Buyers of the Smart Forfour can choose between two small petrol engines – a 1.0-litre three-cylinder with 71PS or a 0.9-litre three-cylinder turbo with 90PS. Both produce less than 100g/km of CO2, meaning free annual road tax – plus they are efficient.
The 71PS engine has an official economy figure of 67.3mpg, slightly better than the 65.7mpg of the 90PS engine. In reality you’re unlikely to see much difference between the two in terms of fuel consumption, but you will see a serious difference in performance – the 71PS engine lacks punch at anything above town speeds.
It’s fine at 30 or 40mph, but once on a dual carriageway it feels out of its depth. If you spend any amount of time on national speed limit roads then the 90PS engine is the one to go for thanks to its 135Nm torque output, versus 91Nm for the less powerful engine. It’s peppy and lively enough for overtaking slower traffic or getting up steep hills without changing down through the gears.
The Forfour has a rear-engine, rear-wheel drive layout which is very rare in modern cars. The biggest advantage of this is a very tight turning circle, since the front wheels have a lot more space to steer. U-turns, tight parking spaces, narrow streets and multi-storey car parks are made far easier by this arrangement.
Despite all the weight being at the rear the Forfour never feels unstable, even when cornering at high speed. There isn’t very much in the way of body roll, but the car does thump and jiggle its way over lumps, bumps and potholes and the steering could do with just a little more weight on a fun, twisting stretch of road.
Refinement is good, thanks largely to the engine being in the back, rather than immediately in front of the dashboard. Even at motorway speeds the 90PS engine hums away quietly, but the 71PS option is a little louder, since it needs to be worked that much harder to get up to speed.
The old Smart was offered with an automated manual transmission that was very sluggish and lethargic when it came to changing gear. In the new Forfour and Fortwo this has been replaced with a twin-clutch auto that is far slicker and much better suited to town driving, where nipping up to speed quickly is essential.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.9 | 52–66 mpg | 11.2 s | 99–122 g/km |
| 0.9 Automatic | 54–67 mpg | 10.5–11.9 s | 98–117 g/km |
| 1.0 71 | 54–67 mpg | 15.9–16.9 s | 96–117 g/km |
| 1.0 71 Automatic | 57–67 mpg | 16.9 s | 96–112 g/km |
| EQ 22kW | - | 12.7 s | - |
Real MPG average for the Smart Forfour (2014 – 2019)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
74%
Real MPG
34–54 mpg
MPGs submitted
48
Smart Forfour (2014 – 2019) interior
- Boot space is 185–975 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of four stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 3495–3525 mm |
| Width | 1875 mm |
| Height | 1543–1555 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2492–2494 mm |
Obviously the biggest difference between the Forfour and the Fortwo is the addition of two additional individual seats. They aren’t particularly large or particularly comfortable, but they’re fine for children. Adults will be OK on a shorter journey, with about enough leg and headroom. The rear doors open to 85 degrees which is especially useful when loading child seats.
The boot is quite small at 185 litres (A Ford Fiesta has 290), but to make up for it you can flip the bases of the rear seats over and down for loading tall boxes or other bulky items. You can also fold the rear seat backs completely flat, freeing up a useful 975 litres of flat space. The load lip is high, since the engine lives under the floor, but it’s not so high as to be a problem.
Up front the Smart feels more or less identical to its smaller Fortwo brother – and that’s no bad thing. The layout is quirky and characterful yet user-friendly, with simple, intuitive controls. A touchscreen system with navigation is available and it’s easy to get to grips with, but you could save some money and opt for the mobile phone cradle with built in charger instead.
Material quality is generally quite good. The plastics are sturdy and hard rather than plush and luxurious, but the ambience of the cabin is lifted thanks to a coloured fabric dashboard covering. There are a few areas that could be improved though – the passenger door, for example, has an unsightly plug where left-hand drive models would have the mirror adjuster.
There’s a handy little drawer under the gear lever for storing sweets or change out of sight, which is useful since the glovebox is pathetically small and awkwardly shaped. Thankfully the door pockets are a reasonable size and there is a pair of useful cupholders. There’s also a removable storage box that fits between the rear seats, with space for odds and ends or drinks.
Equipment levels are good – all cars get alloy wheels, a multi-function steering wheel, remote central locking, air conditioning, cruise control, hill start assist, electric winows, Aux connectivity and Bluetooth. Upper models gain luxury touches like heated seats, bigger wheels and a panoramic roof.
Standard Equipment
Passion models get 15-inch alloy wheels, manually adjustable door mirrors, a rear cargo box, multi-function steering wheel, 12v socket, climate control, remote central locking, electric windows, colour multifunction instrument screen, audio system with Aux, USB and Bluetooth, stop/start, crosswind assist, cruise control with limiter, hill start assist, two ISOFIX mounting points, tyre pressure monitor.
Prime trim adds a panoramic glass roof, alternate design 15-inch alloy wheels, sunglasses golder, leather upholstery, heated front seats and lane keep assist.
Proxy is the top trim and adds 16-inch alloy wheels, brushed stainless steel pedals, 10mm lower suspension and a chome-plated tail pipe.
Smart Forfour (2014 – 2019) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 3495–3525 mm |
| Width | 1875 mm |
| Height | 1543–1555 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2492–2494 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 975–1200 kg |
| Boot Space | 185–975 L |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Servicing | 9000–25000 miles |
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £10,495–£22,285 |
| Insurance Groups | 2–12 |
| Road Tax Bands | A–D |
| Official MPG | 52.3–67.3 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 4 |
On sale until July 2020
On sale until April 2017
On sale until October 2015
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 0.9 Turbo Edition 1 90 4dr | £14,315 | 65.7 mpg | 11.2 s |
| 0.9 Turbo Edition 1 90 Auto 4dr | £15,310 | 67.3 mpg | 11.9 s |
On sale until January 2015
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.0 Edition 1 71 2dr | £13,720 | 67.3 mpg | 15.9 s |
Model History
- July 2014: Smart Forfour unveiled
- January 2016: Smart Forfour edition white and edition black launched
- September 2016: Smart Forfour Brabus launched
- July 2017: Forfour Disturbing London edition launch
July 2014
Smart Forfour unveiled
Two state-of-the-art three-cylinder engines will be available for the new smart at the market launch: the naturally aspirated engine generates 71PS from a capacity of 999cc. The engine's ample torque from an engine speed as low as 1000 rpm (maximum: 91Nm at 2850rpm) enables particularly economical driving in high gears, even in urban traffic. This engine is also sude in the 2015 Renault Twingo.
In exchange, top of the range engine for the Smart Forfour is the Renault turbo engine from the Twingo, rated at 90PS. This 898cc engine mobilises maximum torque of 135Nm at 2500rpm. The totally new turbocharger features an electronically controlled wastegate which enables increased engine dynamics in conjunction with a sustainable reduction in fuel consumption. Another distinguishing feature is the automatic start/stop system.
Apart from the turbocharger, a whole range of other technical measures also contributes to the engine's excellent fuel efficiency and performance. These include variable swirl control and variable adjustment of the inlet valves. Another defining trait of the all-aluminium three-cylinder engine is the square bore/stroke ratio. A few months after the market launch, a basic petrol engine rated at60PS will extend the range.
Both transmission variants are also new for smart: customers can choose between a five-speed manual transmission and the twinamic six-speed dual clutch transmission.
Three equipment lines (passion, prime and proxy) and a wealth of optional items, some of which were previously the reserve of higher segments, make every smart fortwo or smart forfour a unique gem in its own right. Even in the entry-level version, both models offer a comprehensive scope of safety and comfort features. These include LED daytime driving lights, central locking with radio remote control, visual locking-verification signal and immobiliser, cruise control with limiter (variable speed limitation), exterior temperature indicator with frost warning, instrument cluster with monochrome LCD display and trip computer and electric windows in the front.
New, rich exterior colours and around 40 combination options between bodypanels and tridion cell boost the brand's upbeat image. New colours now available include moon white (matt), lava orange (metallic) and hazel brown (metallic), which can be applied to contrast with new colours for the tridion cell such as cool silver (metallic) or lava orange (metallic).
The dashboard and the door centre panels feature extensive fabric coverings in the three lines. This high-quality textile surface is very pleasant to the touch and is reminiscent of the mesh inserts in modern sports shoes. The mesh structure is a USP in this vehicle segment.
The new smart forfour naturally offers even more loading capacity. The rear seat backrests can be folded down to produce a level load surface measuring 1285 x 996 mm with a cargo volume of up to 975 litres – the benchmark in its segment. The loading length with the front passenger seat backrest folded forward is also exceptional, at 2.22 metres.
The new smart models also feature a sophisticated De-Dion rear axle, which has been modified for substantially greater comfort. New elements are the twin-tube shock absorbers and separate barrel-shaped helical springs. Two elastomer shims provide for effective noise decoupling of the helical springs between body and rear axle.
The Sports suspension package is optionally available to those seeking sportier handling from their smart. The springs are firmer here and the vehicle is ten millimetres lower.
As standard, the new smart models come with mechanical rack-and-pinion steering. The Direct-Steer system with variable ratio and electric power assistance provides for considerably enhanced driving enjoyment, even better handling and increased efficiency.
Advanced assistance systems which were previously the reserve of higher classes of vehicle further enhance safety and comfort. These include Crosswind Assist (standard), forward collision warning (option) and Lane Keeping Assist (option).
The smart models come with driver airbag, driver kneebag and front passenger airbag as standard. The kneebag has a positive influence on occupant kinematics in a frontal collision, thus offering the driver additional protection in many frontal collision scenarios. The principle of the telescoping steering column has been adopted 1:1 from the Mercedes-Benz range.
January 2016
Smart Forfour edition white and edition black launched
Based on the Prime trim line (which includes features such as heated leather seats), the special edition models add the Urban Style and the Premium packages as standard.
These include three-spoke sports steering wheel with perforated leather, brushed stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs, 16-inch Y-spoke-alloy wheels in black, exhaust system with chrome-plated tailpipe, comfort package, rear parking assistance and smart media system including European satellite navigation. Forfour models also come with privacy glass in the rear. The forfour offers £1660 worth of features (adding rear privacy glass), giving customers over £760 worth of extra value.
September 2016
Smart Forfour Brabus launched
Prices for the new Smart Forfour Brabus range start at £16,815.
The Brabus range uses the existing turbo-charged 898cc engine, with an increased power output of 109PS up from 90PS. In keeping with its sportier engine and exterior, it also comes with Brabus Performance sports suspension with specially adapted ESP, sports power steering, and a twinamic dual-clutch transmission with race start function.
Based on the existing passion model, the Brabus models add significant styling updates including Brabus badging, a sports steering wheel, Brabus seats with dinamica inserts, handbrake and gear shift with Brabus logo, Brabus sports pedals plus 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels.
For £845 Brabus customers can add the Premium package which includes height adjustable driver’s seat and steering wheel; heated and electrically operated door mirrors; rear parking sensors; and smart media system. The night sky option also adds a fabric folding sunroof for an additional £625 on smart forfour models only.
For an additional £3170 customers can opt for the Brabus Xclusive model, which adds leather sports seats, a bi-fabric dashboard (leather and mesh), Brabus floor mat and Xclusive badging. Brabus Xclusive models come standard with the Premium Plus package (£1,345 on BRABUS models) which includes ambient lighting, rear view camera, automatic window wipers and lights, fog lamps with cornering function and a centre armrest.
July 2017
Forfour Disturbing London edition launch
Prices start from £16,390. Based on the Brabus sport model line, the special edition features black paint with rose gold exterior and interior detailing. It comes with a 90PS turbocharged petrol engine and six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as standard.
What to watch out for
Report of 2016 Smart Forfour 0.9 Turbo Proxy Premium Plus, bought used in March 2017, suffering a strange breakdown on the M1 northbound. "Deafening crack from the car simultaneous with the computer/satnav shutting down and a deafening clattering noise from the engine. Driver put hazard warning lights on and sounded the horn which she could not hear due to the noise from the engine. As the hard shoulder was in use due to congestion she pulled over as far as she could and turned off the ignition and removed the keys. The engine did not shut down and the sound continued. She took her handbag and fled the vehicle to behind the crash barrier where she phoned the AA, then Smart Assistance. Shortly afterwards two Highways Officers arrived and advised me to stay away from the car due to the potential danger posed by the vibrating and still noisy engine. As the hard shoulder was live due to congestion the vehicle was recovered by Nick from J A K Recovery in Toddington who disconnected and reconnected the electrics and on re-booting the computer found the car to be working fine. Owner was advised that even though it was now ok it would probably break down again in the near future and as Nick had “worked on” the car and I was blocking a live lane the car would still have to be towed to the recovery yard and pay £150 towing fee to Highways Agency. Car was subsequently taken to Smart HQ in Milton Keynes, diagnostically tested and driven 50 miles with no fault found.
20-03-2018:Report of failure of "turbo actuator" of 2016 Smart Forfour at 5,000 miles. Owner told on 1st February there is a Worldwide shortage of turbos for the 90TCe engine. Car still not fixed. By 22nd March 2018 turbo finally arrived.
20-07-2018:Report of clutch problems since new with 2015 Smart ForFour. Dealer adjusted it during the first year, but kept sticking down and sometimes will not go into gear. Smart now saying that at 19,000 miles it needs a new clutch. They will only look at it if owner agrees to pay labour and then if they find it’s wear and tear it’s not covered under warranty.
14-11-2018:Report of problems with infotainment system of 2018 Smart ForFour 0.9 Twinamic Dual Clutch Auto Prime Sport Premium Plus. Touch screen became unresponsive so took it back for replacement. They replaced the screen and subsequent to this lost the DAB radio. They apparently pushed a software update to it which now has fixed the radio, but the satnav does not now recognise the SD card. They have suggested replacing the screen/head unit again and have not fixed it. The car is currently still with the garage and they are suggesting a new wiring loom is required and it can take up to two weeks to order as is chassis specific.
12-03-2019:Report that new Smart ForFour electric has a real world range of only 60 miles.
20-04-2019:Report of 2016 Smart ForFour, biught used 2 months previously, spontaneously combusting under a car cover while parked after being left for 3 weeks.
