
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.
Get FREE Dealer Quotes
![]() | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() |
---|---|---|---|---|
Quick Specs | ||||
Still stylish and quirky, the 2012 Smart Fortwo can be a fun and useful car for tight urban spaces where its size and maneuverability is an asset; but for even occasional highway driving, nearly any other small car would be a better pick. |
The 2012 Honda Fit is peppy and fun to drive, and its interior is incredibly space-efficient; but some might be turned off by its rather utilitarian look. |
Do Americans want small cars with more room and great gas mileage? The 2012 Hyundai Accent is betting they do--and so are we. |
More capacity, more practicality, and just as much sport and style, the 2012 MINI Cooper Clubman strikes a balance between family and fun. |
The appeal of the 2012 Scion iQ minicar is limited; but for parking-challenged urban dwellers, it's charming. |
MSRP From | ||||
$12,490 | $15,325 | $12,545 | $19,500 | $15,265 |
Gas Mileage | ||||
34 MPG City / 38 MPG Hwy | 27 MPG City / 35 MPG Hwy | 28 MPG City / 37 MPG Hwy | 25 MPG City / 37 MPG Hwy | 36 MPG City / 37 MPG Hwy |
Engine | ||||
Gas I3 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 |
EPA Class | ||||
Minicompact | Small Station Wagon | Compact Cars | Minicompact | Mini Compact |
Style Name | ||||
2-Door Coupe Pure | 5-Door HB Manual | 4-Door Sedan Manual GLS | 2-Door Coupe | 3-Door HB (GS) |
Drivetrain | ||||
Rear Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | ||||
2 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4 |
Passenger Doors | ||||
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 2 |
Body Style | ||||
2 Door Coupe | 5 Door Hatchback | 4 Door Sedan | Coupe | 3 Door Hatchback |
Transmission | ||||
Automatic w/Manual Shift | Manual | Manual | Manual | Continuously Variable Ratio |
Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
2012 smart fortwo vs. 2012 Honda Fit | 2012 smart fortwo vs. 2012 Hyundai Accent | 2012 smart fortwo vs. 2012 MINI Cooper | 2012 smart fortwo vs. 2012 Scion iQ |