Smart Car MPG In USA Review

Introduction

The Smart car is known for its compact size and fuel efficiency. With models running on gas, diesel, electric, and hybrid powertrains, understanding the Smart car’s miles per gallon (MPG) ratings across different configurations can help consumers make informed decisions. This article will review MPG data for Smart cars in the USA, comparing ratings between models and analyzing the key factors that impact fuel economy.

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Smart Car MPG Ratings

The table below summarizes EPA-rated MPG data for recent Smart car models sold in the USA between 2017-2022:

As the data shows, electric Smart cars achieve significantly higher mile per gallon equivalent (MPGe) ratings than their gas-powered counterparts. The Fortwo Electric Drive model stands out with combined EPA ratings over 100 MPGe each model year.

The gas-powered Fortwo sees a slight drop in combined MPG from 35 in 2017 down to 33 in the 2022 model. The electric Fortwo EQ is rated the same 35 MPGe combined in 2017 as the gas Fortwo. Generally across all powertrain types, Smart cars achieve excellent MPG and MPGe compared to other mini-compact and subcompact vehicle classes.

Real-World MPG

EPA ratings provide a standardized MPG benchmark, but do not always reflect real-world driving. Owners commonly report Smart cars achieving 28-44 mpg in mixed driving based on factors like speed and acceleration habits. On average, 38 mpg is commonly cited as attainable with conservative driving.

This positions the Smart car well against other mini-vehicles like the Fiat 500 (31 mpg combined rating) and Toyota Yaris (35 mpg combined rating). The Smart car’s short wheelbase can result in more frequent gear changes compared to longer subcompacts, reducing highway mpg if driven over 65 mph consistently. But for around-town commuting with moderate acceleration, the Smart car’s light weight and tiny footprint give it an MPG advantage.

Factors Impacting MPG

What makes the Smart car such an efficiency standout in city driving, but causes highway mpg to suffer compared to larger subcompacts? There are several key factors at play:

Transmission – Smart cars have automated manual transmissions optimized for start-and-stop urban commutes. Gear ratios keep the engine rpm low during acceleration from 0-40 mph. At higher sustained speeds, the transmission tends towards higher rpm, lowering mpg.

Vehicle Size & Weight – Weighing just 1,800 lbs, the Smart Fortwo is classified as a microcar. With tiny 12.6 ft length and 5-speed automated manual transmission, it requires less power and fuel to accelerate compared to 3,000 lb subcompacts with more gears.

Driving Conditions – Aggressive acceleration, high speeds, cold weather, and using accessories like air conditioning reduce MPG. Electric models can lose range in extreme cold and hot weather. Stop-and-go city driving allows the Smart car transmission and engine efficiency to shine.

Powertrain – Electric Smart cars boast far higher efficiency ratings than their gas counterparts, though at a higher purchase cost. Power output is limited to around 80 hp for gas Smart engines to conserve fuel, making electric models feel peppier.

Buying Considerations

For shoppers prioritizing fuel sippers, the Smart car presents excellent efficiency wrapped in a uniquely tiny, nimble package. Gas models offer 30+ mpg in the city and mid-30s on the highway. Electric Smart cars deliver triple-digit MPGe figures that handily beat economy models.

Driving style and expectations play a key role – those wanting robust acceleration will find the Smart car lacking compared to larger subcompacts. However city dwellers that rack up stop-and-go miles will enjoy saving money at the pump thanks to Smart cars’ ultra-thrifty personality. Just beware that its phenomenal urban efficiency doesn’t fully carry over once highway cruising speeds enter the picture.

Conclusion

In the microcar class, the Smart car line stands tall as an ultra-efficient option. Upwards of 40 mpg is attainable for conservative drivers based on real-world owner reports. Choosing the electric Fortwo can push efficiency over 100 MPGe based on EPA ratings, but at the cost of higher sticker prices. No matter the powertrain, the transmission tuning and tiny size make the Smart car a mileage maven around town. For the urban commuter on a budget, few nameplates can match its smiles-per-gallon (and money saved) potential.