Smart Car questions... - Smart Car of America Forums : Smart Car Forum

hmeadq · 07-10-2008, 10:36 AM

I am just considering a Smart Car... Maybe I can out-green my green boss who drives a Prius by being not only a green architect and organic farmer but also driving a Smart Car!

But my car is on it's last legs so I am worried about how long it will last and if it will last long enough...

I have 3 questions...

1. Are they going to bring a diesel into the US soon?

2. Do they drive OK in the winter?

3. How long would it be from when I "reserve" until I get it, and if they were to change options or something (bring deisel in) between now and then could you change...

Thanks

WhiteNBlack08 · 07-10-2008, 10:58 AM

1. there is talk about the diesel, but nothing official.

2. From what I've read on some of the European sites, they love them in the winter, I've only had mine 2 months, so I can't personally comment on winter driving.

3. figure 2 years right now(it's getting longer by the day). You will not finallize your order until you configure, which should be about 4 months before you get your car, then you can choose all currently available options(including diesel if offered at that time).

gotta have a SMART · 07-10-2008, 11:18 AM

In regards to your Question #3: do a search on here for "orphans". That is a MUCH faster way to get a smart car! I was looking at an 18+ month wait for a reserved smart soI did some calling around and had an orphan within a month! I LOVE IT! Good luck!

**jwight** · 07-10-2008, 11:19 AM

Search for ice, snow, winter, etc.

Here's one thread: How do SMART handle in the snow/ice

Turbo42 · 07-10-2008, 03:14 PM

good luck with the diesel dont see that happening any time soon

RVGRINGO · 07-10-2008, 03:31 PM

You should put down your $99 for a reservation and then get on every orphan's list possible. Then, call frequently and drop in to see 'your salesman' from time to time. You'll have one soon if you aren't fussy about colors, etc.

rollingtones · 07-10-2008, 06:41 PM

I placed my order several months ago but another dealer had an orphan which I bought on the spot. So put in your reservation right away but keep asking any dealers near you about orphan cars, they ARE available.

Earliest for turbodiesel is Model Year 2010, but maybe not even then. Definitely NOT in Model Year 2009. Get a gas one now and trade up to a turbodiesel if & when it arrives. Your gas smart will retain a high percentage of it's purchase price, making the transition into the turbodiesel fairly easy.