2012 smart fortwo vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

The all-new 2012 Scion iQ is without a doubt the Fortwo's only direct rival in the U.S.

market.

The iQ doesn't feel quite as agile and tossable at low speeds as the Fortwo, but it's far better on the highway and a feasible option for suburban commuters.

The iQ also can fit three adults in a pinch, thanks to its unique '3+1' seating, and its set of features and options is more extensive.

The MINI Cooper (and also for that matter the FIat 500) is more of a lifestyle car, and even though it costs thousands more, it overlaps with some of the same crowd, looking for a car that's unique and doesn't scream 'bargain basement.' The Mitsubishi i (electric car) would also land in this class, although it too is priced many thousands higher.

Finally, if you have to look at the Fortwo with a practical eye, it simply doesn't make a lot of sense next to base models of fine subcompacts like the Hyundai Accent, Chevrolet Sonic, Honda Fit, and Ford Fiesta.

With all of those, you get more car, more features, and a price that's about the same.