smart Alternative... 09 Fit? - Smart Car of America Forums : Smart Car Forum

Willy · 02-23-2008, 08:58 AM

This might be an alternative to the smart, at least for me. A little more car, Honda reliability, and look at those mileage numbers.

http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/22/2...-for-new-york/

I haven't gone on a test drive of the smart yet, but I'm beginning to wonder if the smart is going to me enough car to serve as my year-round daily driver. Also getting a little nervous about all the issues people seem to be having. For once I'm glad I have a late reservation.

Smartdavis · 02-23-2008, 09:05 AM

Those mileage numbers look pretty darn good and the Honda might be a better fit. Sounds like you're getting the Willies.

**jwight** · 02-23-2008, 09:14 AM

We were looking hard at the 08 Fit; this one looks even better. Unfortunately, to get the features offered on a smart you have to go to the "S" version, which runs the price up. Still, very nice cars and the 5 door layout has lots of room in back. Worth looking into IMHO.

Smartdavis · 02-23-2008, 09:25 AM

Ok, on a more serious note, the new Honda Fit and the new Toyota IQ, are going to be terrific cars. I have owned both Honda's and Toyota's over the years and I will probably own more of them in the future. If I could only have one car I would move in that direction, because frankly from time to time you just need to be able to put more than two people in a car, and that is something the Smart can't do. As to reliability with the Smart, it's still too early to say for sure, but you have to believe the manufacturer wants this new release to go well and will jump on any problems quickly. So far my Smart is exceeding my expectations, it handles very well, and it sure makes you grin when you drive it.

Karl Roth · 02-23-2008, 09:28 AM

A Bentley may be a better choice for some smart is still the only micro car sold in the US. At the moment there is no "alternative". You can choose something else and that is what it will be. An other choice.
karl

bmx43 · 02-23-2008, 09:38 AM

and still as ugly as ever. why is it that car makers still don't seem to get the idea of eco freindly doesn't not have to mean ugly or lame looking. one of the reasons for the Smart's success is that it's one of the first eco cars that actually doesn't look stupid. personally i think the Fit and even the prius are lame looking. zero style whatsoever. i wonder if they can get a smaller wheel on that fit. maybe they can go with like 9's all around...

edit. the Toyota IQ is the first car that seems to get it. although the production car is not as aggressive as the concept, it still has a lot of potential. couple that with Toyota's build quality and a likely longer warranty and it might be hard to pass up. throw on some 18's and roll. yea.

meaux61 · 02-23-2008, 10:08 AM

Im with Karl and BMX. There is no current alternative to the smart in the US.
I am anxious to see the IQ hit the US. I love the reliability of my Toyotas.
I did not order the smart because it is a "small car". I ordered it because it is unique. I cannot think of another small car that I would remotely want that is currently on the market.

Meaux

andersenjp · 02-23-2008, 11:32 AM

Don't do it!!!! The smart will be worth it. Believe me. I have never had more fun with a car ever. My mileage is great (up to 48mpgUS highway and 35 combined). What more would you want?

Besides the Fit won't turn heads like the smart.

SmartBob · 02-23-2008, 11:34 AM

Dittoes....the Fit is a small station wagon....and butt ugly. The only thing near a Smart for me is the Yaris and that's the way I'll go if my fortwo flops for some reason..I'd love to see the IQ or the Fiat 600 but it won't happen in time for me.

prm1177 · 02-23-2008, 11:41 AM

If I had additional cash, I might just get one of the new Mini Clubman models in addition to my Smart (for those times when I need to haul stuff back from Home Depot).