Driving Position/Ergonomics Issues?

[addison1062]

I must admit I was sorely disappointed by the lack of adjustment for the smart's steering wheel. I found my ideal driving position on the car, but I discovered the steering wheel blocked my view of the speedometer!

I am not tall nor short at 5'11, but I found I had problems, partially due to me being a bit short in the leg and taller in the torso. This could be a make or break issue with me and my smart! =(

Anyone else have a similar problem that have forced them to ditch the smart?

[stevenvillatoro]

5'9 and NO problem! Try adjusting your seatback angle.

[ckigar]

I am built similarly to you.. 'long waisted', and I have found a comfortable position by reclining the seat back a bit more and moving it forward.. the top of the wheel is JUST over the top digits.

The smart is actually one of the cars where I DO have good headroom. It is also easier to get in to without bending than my Sable.. important those days with a stiff neck!

[geochemistry]

I'm 6'6", and my wife is 5'2". Niether of us have any ergonometric problems, and will be doing an 800 mile road trip with the smart in a couple weeks.

[chieftmc]

Originally Posted by geochemistry

I'm 6'6", and my wife is 5'2". Niether of us have any ergonometric problems, and will be doing an 800 mile road trip with the smart in a couple weeks.

My wife and I are about the same as you and yours. I would be VERY interested in how you made out on an 800 mile trip! Please post upon your return.

[MichaelJ]

Originally Posted by chieftmc

I would be VERY interested in how you made out on an 800 mile trip! Please post upon your return.

I did a 500 mile road trip just to see what it would be like (and to have dinner with some friends).

Not as comfortable overall as my Grand Caravan, but it was quite comfortable - 42MPG @ 70(mumble) MPH on I-81.

I find myself wondering what the MPG would have been had I done 55 ;)

[Teresa]

I've got a question. There's been alot of advertisement about how this car accomodates taller persons.......but how does it accomodate a shorter person. I'm 5'1", can I get the seat up close enough to touch the peddles?

[MichaelJ]

Originally Posted by Teresa

I'm 5'1", can I get the seat up close enough to touch the pedals?

5'8" here and I can get the seat far enough forward that I can't get in the car. Unless you have very short legs, I wouldn't expect a problem.

It WILL be a bit of a change from the Ram 2500, though...

[rawlus®]

6'6" and wife of 5' 3" or so. probably one of the better experiences for a vehicle that fits the two of us decently. most vehicles not really fitting me at all. including none of the competitors to the smart.

[SmartAzz]

Originally Posted by Teresa

I've got a question. There's been alot of advertisement about how this car accomodates taller persons.......but how does it accomodate a shorter person. I'm 5'1", can I get the seat up close enough to touch the peddles?

Well, it is all about proportions, but I can tell you as a proprotionate 5'1" female that the Smart is fine, first car I am good with that does not have height adjustable seats. The steering wheel placement is not perfect, would be better if the seat was a tad higher or wheel tilted a bit lower for me, but it is not a problem and I can reach pedals and see fine (and no, I don't look like one of those tiny drivers peering over the wheel ).