Smart Forfour II (W453) 0.9 (90 Hp) Automatic

The Smart Forfour II (W453) 0.9 (90 Hp) Automatic is a city car produced by Smart, a microcar manufacturer owned by Mercedes-Benz. Introduced in 2014 and continuing through 2019, the W453 generation represented a significant departure from its predecessor, offering a five-door hatchback configuration and, crucially, a rear-wheel-drive layout. While Smart vehicles have a limited official presence in the United States, the Forfour is a popular choice in European markets, particularly for urban commuters seeking a compact and fuel-efficient vehicle. This model, powered by a turbocharged 0.9-liter three-cylinder engine, aimed to balance practicality with Smart’s signature focus on maneuverability and low running costs.

Smart Forfour II (W453) 0.9: Overview and Market Position

The Forfour II was developed in collaboration with Renault, sharing its platform and some components with the Renault Twingo. This partnership allowed Smart to offer a more conventional and spacious vehicle than previous Forfour models. The W453 targeted buyers in densely populated urban areas who prioritize ease of parking, fuel economy, and a small footprint. The 0.9-liter engine variant, producing 90 horsepower, was a common offering, providing a balance between performance and efficiency. The Forfour’s rear-wheel-drive configuration, unusual for this class of vehicle, contributed to its nimble handling and surprisingly spacious interior for its size.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the Smart Forfour II 0.9 Automatic is a 898 cc (54.8 cubic inches) inline three-cylinder gasoline engine, designated M 281.910. This engine is turbocharged and intercooled, allowing it to produce 90 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 135 Nm (99.57 lb-ft) of torque at 2500 rpm. The power-to-liter ratio is a respectable 100.2 hp/l. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.9 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.3 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 165 km/h (102.53 mph). Fuel economy is a key strength, with combined cycle consumption rated at 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg or 67.3 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 98 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards.

Design & Features

The Smart Forfour II is a five-door hatchback, offering seating for five passengers. Its compact dimensions – 3495 mm (137.6 in) in length and 1665 mm (65.55 in) in width – make it exceptionally easy to maneuver and park in tight urban spaces. The design is characterized by its short overhangs and relatively tall body. Inside, the Forfour offers a surprisingly spacious cabin for its size, thanks in part to the rear-wheel-drive layout which frees up interior space. Standard features typically included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electric power steering, and a range of safety equipment designed to meet European safety standards. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 185 liters (6.53 cu ft) to a maximum of 975 liters (34.43 cu ft) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s kerb weight is 950 kg (2094.39 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1450 kg (3196.7 lbs).

Technical Specifications