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See more 2016 Smart fortwo photos at AutoGuide.comDaimler’s redesigned smart car made its North American debut in Manhattan on the eve of the New York Auto Show.
And where better to showcase this urban runabout than the Big Apple, where space is at a premium and parking spots can be tough to come by? The new fortwo should be better in every way than its predecessor, which has been excoriated for its poorly shifting automated-manual transmission.
That’s one of the 2016 model’s biggest improvements. Drivers now have a choice of gearbox. They can go with the car’s standard five-speed manual or they can opt for a dual-clutch automatic.
The new smart is powered by a rear-mounted three-cylinder engine. It’s turbocharged and delivers 88 hp and 100 lb-ft of twist.
Beyond powertrain enhancements the new car should also feature improved comfort and better maneuverability despite a track width that’s been increased by 100 millimeters. Additionally it should be safer than before thanks to the greater use of high-strength steel.
The 2016 smart should go on sale in the U.S. this fall.