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I took two trips this weekend of 250 miles each (500 total), going 80-85 most of the way. The car tracked flawlessly and was very comfortable (ride, level of effort, and quietness). I was not tired at all by the back-to-back trips and thoroughly enjoyed the smart. Lots of smiles and waves along the way, of course! This car is an extremely competent cruiser... don't be fooled!
By the way, it was 105 degrees in LA, and the A/C was up to the job. Use 'recirculate' and there is a big boost in cool air.
Well, my first real drive on Friday back from Cleveland was all Interstate at 70 - 75 mph. Pretty windy day and lots of trucks on the road, so the car moved around a lot. Not dangerous, about like driving our Mini at the same speed. My opinion from that 220 mile trip was the car can be a handful and demands constant attention. For that reason, I found the trip pretty tiring. Maybe after some more seat time and familiarity with the car that will change. Still, I'd hate to do the same trip at night and in the rain.
My first day of ownership was a 350 mile trip. I was tired by the end of the trip. But after a week of driving I think it was more due to the fact the car is very different to drive when compared to my highway cruiser, a 99 Chrysler Concorde. The Concorde being a rather large car with a wheelbase much longer than the entire Smart, kinda drives itself...the Smart wants more input...all the time. I now enjoy it...I almost forgot what DRIVING was.....
I recently came back from a business trip and my company offered me a Ford Expedition rental for the week. I have to tell you how bad this thing is. It is a very 'muted' feeling driving this beast. You can't really feel the road. You don't feel like you have much control. It was like you driving a machine that drove the machine (if that makes any sense).
Now with the Smart, you feel like you're in control. You DO feel the road. It is NOT muted. It is a totally different driving experience. Now obviously the comfort level is different between the two cars. With the Expedition, I feel like I'm on my LazyBoy. With the Smart, I feel like I'm part of the car.
I understand the need for the Expedition on rare occasions. I just can't justify it for everyday use.
The Smart wins in a TKO for overall driving experience. It may not be the 'total refinement' of automobiles but then again, I'm looking to drive, not sit on my comfy couch.
Steven, just curious what was your gas mileage at those speeds? i imagine a little lower than say 60-65 MPH but my new commute has a 75 MPH speed limit for 1/2 the 45 mile trip so i am looking into mileage.
i have read a lot of the MPG threads already but wanted to ask yours.....thanks
james
When I picked up my new smart passion in NC, I drove it to CT in 2 days. 755 miles total and got 45.2 mpg for the entire trip. Used 93 octane fuel. Crossed 3 bridges, the Chesapeake, Delaware and the Tappan Zee Bridges. Speed approx 60-70 mph. Not too much wind problems and I thought the turbulence from the 18 wheelers was really not that bad. Used D the entire way. Now I've got 1285 miles and averaging about 38 mpg in mostly suburban driving with a mix of about 70% rolling hills and 30% highway. I'm using the paddle shifting now more frequently.
Steven, just curious what was your gas mileage at those speeds?
James, I won't be able to give you a good answer because my mid-trip fillup was mixed with city driving, and the same will be true for the next tank. My mileage always seems to be 38-40, no matter what I do! Wish I could be mid-40s... tried all the tricks, nothing seems to work.
I did about the same thing last week-end, 250 miles to the river at 75/80 and got 33 mpg. Think it was due to the advanced aerodynamics and some strong head winds. The return 250 miles, I tried to keep it down a bit, but at 70 was in everyones way, but did get 38+ mpg...
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