smart and Mercedes-Benz demonstrate high environmental friendliness in a real-world test

Detroit – In an unusual long distance test the smart fortwo and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class demonstrated their top position among the most climate-friendly cars. On a trip from Los Angeles via Chicago to the Detroit Auto Show 2008 they demonstrated outstanding fuel-saving qualities in everyday real-world conditions. On the 4,400 kilometre route the smart fortwo mhd recorded an average consumption of just 4.8 litres per hundred kilometres. The two smart fortwo cdis were satisfied with 3.9 litres, and even the business saloon E 320 BLUETEC (US version) consumed an average of just 5.8 l/100 km.

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by Kurt Gensheimer

Blings:

• “Interesting” design
• High smug factor - if that’s what you’re into
• More compact than a crushed Geo Metro
• Gets more looks than a Ferrari
• Safer than you think
• Spacious interior makes you forget you’re in an 8 foot box

Dings:

• “Interesting” design
• High smug factor
• 40 mpg ain’t great for a 1600 lb car
• Paltry, wheezing engine
• Geriatric transmission
• High price tag for what it is
• Cargo space for a single…uh…nevermind

Verdict: I don’t get it.

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