Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com Autoblog Canada http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Smart shows production version of winged ForJeremy [w/video]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/smart-shows-production-version-of-winged-forjeremy-w-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/smart-shows-production-version-of-winged-forjeremy-w-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/smart-shows-production-version-of-winged-forjeremy-w-video/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



The SmartForJeremy is a reality, a limited run of the haute couture Smart Fortwo being announced at the Shanghai Motor Show. It has been toned down for production since we first saw it at last year's LA Auto Show but its signature flourish, the wings, remain. Instead replacing the brake lights, though, a smaller set of red-accented wings sit above them. The white interior remains, though the KITT-style wheel has been swapped for a traditional unit.

A collaboration between Mercedes-Benz Cars Advanced Design Studios and Jeremy Scott, it will come in white with white wheels and alubeam accents outside and in. Production starts this month and there will be three powertrain options all in the coupe bodystyle: a standard 55kW Smart ForTwo Electric Drive for 34,800 euro (CAD$46,436), a more powerful 60kW Brabus Electric Drive for 40,600 euro (CAD$54,175) or a 102-horsepower gasoline-engined Brabus for 33,333 euro (CAD$44,478).

It's not for everyone, but if you want to live like it's Fashion Week every week look no further. The press release and videos below can tell you more about it.


Gallery: Smart ForJeremy Photos

Continue reading Smart shows production version of winged ForJeremy [w/video]

Smart shows production version of winged ForJeremy [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 shanghai motor showjeremy scottshanghaishanghai motor showsmartsmart forjeremysmart fortwo Tue, 23 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20547163/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/23/smart-shows-production-version-of-winged-forjeremy-w-video/20547163/article-detail.xml 20547163 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/smart-forjeremy-production_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/smart-forjeremy-production.jpg <![CDATA[Top 10 most fuel efficient cars of 2013]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/top-10-most-fuel-efficient-cars-of-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/top-10-most-fuel-efficient-cars-of-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/top-10-most-fuel-efficient-cars-of-2013/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,



Let's face it, car buyer's in today's consumer conscious crowd are far more interested in hearing fuel economy figures than horsepower numbers when it comes to choosing a new car. With gas prices still on the rise and more drivers on the road these days, several car manufacturers have remained focused on producing more fuel efficient cars in order to quickly capitalize on the gas sipping, money saving trend towards them.

Trusted financial advice website, Kiplinger recently announced its own list of what they consider the most fuel efficient cars of 2013. Although we agree with many of their top picks, we also noticed a few obvious choices didn't quite seem to make the cut. It should also come as no surprise to learn Toyota claimed five of the top 10 fuel efficient spots on Kiplinger's list, as the eco-minded automaker continues to lead the way with its popular hybrid technology being sprinkled throughout its vehicle line-up.

Scroll down to watch Kiplinger's video on the Top 10 most fuel efficient cars of 2013 and click here to learn which cars will help you save the most money at the pumps... if you ever have to stop at one, that is.


Gallery: Top 10 Cheapest Cars in Canada

Volkswagen Jetta - $14,990Honda Fit DX - $14,580Smart fortwo coupe - $14,400Toyota Yaris hatchback CE - $14,250Mazda2 - $14,095

Continue reading Top 10 most fuel efficient cars of 2013

Top 10 most fuel efficient cars of 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 10 besteconomicelectricelectric vehiclefuel economyfuel efficientfuel efficient carshybridtop 10 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 11:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20535478/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/10/top-10-most-fuel-efficient-cars-of-2013/20535478/article-detail.xml 20535478 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/01-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/01-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Meet the Smart Fortwo that should be competing in the 2013 Dakar Rally [w/video]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/meet-the-smart-fortwo-that-should-be-competing-in-the-2013-dakar/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/meet-the-smart-fortwo-that-should-be-competing-in-the-2013-dakar/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/meet-the-smart-fortwo-that-should-be-competing-in-the-2013-dakar/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



When it comes to specialty applications of the Smart Fortwo, "off-road motorsports" may seem about as likely as "amphibious assault vehicle." Yet a team has come up with just that (the former, not the latter), creating a rally-ready runabout dubbed the Smart Dakar.

The team used a Fortwo to create a "Smart Buggy 4x4." The creator's website claims that the vehicle is in compliance with FIA regulations, and weighs only 750 kilograms (1,653 pounds). As the name suggests, the intent of this vehicle is to compete in the Dakar Rally, and it looks the part.

It may be the most hard-nosed Smart that you'll ever find, but it has an uphill battle to make it to competition. The race team, headed by Jose Luis "JL" Alvarez, does not have the funds to field a full assortment of vehicles, including two Smarts and a Honda CRF-450, and now all plans have been canceled for this year's Dakar Rally.

JL even appealed to his fans via a YouTube video with the hopes of crowd-funding the project, though it appears that attempt has failed. At any rate, the 2013 Dakar Rally starts January 5 in Lima, Peru, and ends January 20 in Santiago, Chile, and it appears that this team, with its unique ride, will not be attending.

Continue reading Meet the Smart Fortwo that should be competing in the 2013 Dakar Rally [w/video]

Meet the Smart Fortwo that should be competing in the 2013 Dakar Rally [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 28 Dec 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 smart dakardakarfortwosmartsmart dakar 2013smart fortwo Fri, 28 Dec 2012 20:01:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20413218/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/28/meet-the-smart-fortwo-that-should-be-competing-in-the-2013-dakar/20413218/article-detail.xml 20413218 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/smart-dakar-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/smart-dakar-628.jpg <![CDATA[Next-gen Smart lineup growing to three models]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/next-gen-smart-lineup-growing-to-three-models/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/next-gen-smart-lineup-growing-to-three-models/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/next-gen-smart-lineup-growing-to-three-models/#comments Filed under: ,



Still in the testing phases of the next-generation Smart Fortwo and the new Forfour model, Smart could also be planning a new crossover to reach into a more mainstream vehicle segment. According to Auto Express, soon after the redesigned Fortwo arrives in 2014, the Smart lineup will grow to include the other two models by 2015.

As expected, the renderings of the new Fortwo, Forfour and the unnamed Smart SUV are inspired heavily by recent concepts like the 2011 Forvision Concept and the 2012 Forstars Concept (pictured above). One interesting note is that Auto Express says both the Fortwo and Forfour will offer a removable tablet as a center stack display screen. The report says that while these cars were developed alongside the Renault Twingo, the French automaker will only be using the larger of the two hatchbacks for its new model.

This, reportedly, won't be the only tie up between Daimler and Nissan-Renault, though, as Smart also looks to add a new crossover based on the next-generation Nissan Juke, which could arrive by late 2015.


Gallery: Smart ForJeremy Photos

Continue reading Next-gen Smart lineup growing to three models

Next-gen Smart lineup growing to three models originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 27 Dec 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 smart fortwodaimlerforfourfortworenault twingorenault-nissansmart Thu, 27 Dec 2012 13:31:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20412136/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/27/next-gen-smart-lineup-growing-to-three-models/20412136/article-detail.xml 20412136 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/smart-forstars-concept-press-12_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/smart-forstars-concept-press-12.jpg <![CDATA[Cheapest new cars in Canada]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/21/cheapest-new-cars-in-canada/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/21/cheapest-new-cars-in-canada/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/21/cheapest-new-cars-in-canada/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,



Whether you're buying your very first car or in the market for something new, one of the biggest factors considered by many new car consumers is staying within their budget. We decided it was time to look at the top 10 cheapest new cars available in Canada, as these wallet-friendly vehicles are designed to offer great value and reliability at a reasonable price point.

Oddly enough, while shopping around to compile this list of affordable new cars, we noticed our top 10 picks all came in below $15,000 MSRP before taxes, freight etc. meaning there are many great options for Canadian drivers on a budget. Additionally, many of these compacts have outstanding fuel economy, which only adds to their appeal.

While these money-saving vehicles may vary, our handy list is a collection of the lowest priced base models from each respective manufacturer and we'd like to remind you any additional options will come at a extra cost. The bottom line is the compact car market in Canada is still very competitive and nearly every automaker strives to offer an affordable entry level option for consumers. Sure prices and incentives may change, but this is the most current list available.

Click here to countdown the top 10 cheapest new cars in Canada and watch this video on the cheapest 2012 model cars to own and operate.

Continue reading Cheapest new cars in Canada

Cheapest new cars in Canada originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 21 Dec 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> cheapcheapestcheapest carscheapest cars in canadalow price carslowest pricesale pricetop 10 cheap cars Fri, 21 Dec 2012 11:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20407632/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/21/cheapest-new-cars-in-canada/20407632/article-detail.xml 20407632 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/03-long-term-2011-vw-jetta-tdi-1356104121_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/03-long-term-2011-vw-jetta-tdi-1356104121.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz dealer offering free Smart car with SLS AMG purchase]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/05/missouri-mercedes-dealer-offering-free-smart-with-every-sls-amg/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/05/missouri-mercedes-dealer-offering-free-smart-with-every-sls-amg/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/05/missouri-mercedes-dealer-offering-free-smart-with-every-sls-amg/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Smart ForTwo free with Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG offer

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT is an exquisite sports car that probably needs no help flying off dealer lots, even with a starting price of almost $200,000, but Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City has come up with an interesting incentive to sweeten the deal. For buyers who purchase a new SLS AMG from dealer stock before the end of the year, the dealership is throwing in a new Smart Fortwo from its inventory at no charge... with a required coupon no less.

In addition to being a great tactic to get a little free press, the spare car also makes sense as an alternative to the SLS, which measures more than 4.6 metres (15-feet) long - almost twice the length of a Fortwo - and has a 563-horsepower engine that sucks down gas at the rate of 18.1 L/100km (13 miles per gallon EPA) in city driving (and even that's provided you don't give in to the devil on your shoulder). Plus, at the end of the day, this really isn't that big of an incentive. Being given a slow-selling US$12,490 car for the purchase of a model starting at US$199,500 represents about a six per cent incentive, which is along the lines of a $1,900 rebate for a $30,000 car.

To get the free Smart, just visit the Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City Facebook page, redeem the coupon and then go buy yourself a new SLS AMG. Congratulations!

Gallery: 2013 Mercedes Benz SLS AMG






Gallery: Smart ForTwo Electric Drive


Continue reading Mercedes-Benz dealer offering free Smart car with SLS AMG purchase

Mercedes-Benz dealer offering free Smart car with SLS AMG purchase originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 05 Dec 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 mercedes-benz sls amg2013 smart fortwofortwofree smart fortwomercedesmercedes-benzslssls amgsmartsmart car Wed, 05 Dec 2012 11:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20394482/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/05/missouri-mercedes-dealer-offering-free-smart-with-every-sls-amg/20394482/article-detail.xml 20394482 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/m-b-k-c-facebook_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/m-b-k-c-facebook.jpg <![CDATA[Fashion designer Jeremy Scott gives Smart Fortwo Electric some wing bling [w/video]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/11/29/smart-forjeremy-la-2012/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/11/29/smart-forjeremy-la-2012/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/11/29/smart-forjeremy-la-2012/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Smart ForJeremy

If you were to gaze upon the Smart Fortwo Electric Drive and ponder what you might add to sort of, you know, set it off a bit, you probably wouldn't consider adding a pair of wings. That's because you are not Jeremy Scott. He, on the other hand, would do exactly that. And has.

That's right, that winged wonder you see pictured above is not some sort of Redbull-induced hallucination. Rather, it is the result of a creative collaboration between Mercedes-Benz Cars Advanced Design Studios and the aforementioned famed fashion designer called, appropriately enough, the Smart ForJeremy. And, it has just made its debut at the LA Auto Show.

Besides the faux-feather flourishes that light up when the brakes are applied, the outward appearance of this 2013 limited special edition is tarted up with a custom set of propeller-inspired wheels with just enough shiny to balance the chromed finish of its tridion shell, mirrors and, um, "eyebrows."

Likewise, the interior is not exactly a study in subtlety. An aeronautical art deco theme is in full effect within the confines of the white, nappa-leather-swathed cabin, with its yoke-like steering wheel serving as the dominating focal point. If that's not enough to remind that you are in a road-going flight of fancy, it also boasts custom four-point seat belts and enough chrome trimmings scattered about to require sunglasses for safe piloting.

While we can't say exactly what kind of flap it will cause in showrooms - we estimate a price tag ranging somewhere from "Are you freaking kidding me?" to just north of "Would you have any Grey Poupon?" - we don't expect more than a very small flock to be offered for sale.

Scroll down below for all the available details in the official press release, along with video including footage of the Smart ForJeremy on the wing. As it were.

Gallery: Smart ForJeremy Photos

Continue reading Fashion designer Jeremy Scott gives Smart Fortwo Electric some wing bling [w/video]

Fashion designer Jeremy Scott gives Smart Fortwo Electric some wing bling [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 29 Nov 2012 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 la auto showforjeremyfortwofortwo edfortwo electricjeremy scottlala auto showsmartsmart car wingssmart wings Thu, 29 Nov 2012 17:58:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20391348/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/29/smart-forjeremy-la-2012/20391348/article-detail.xml 20391348 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/smart-forjeremy-628-1354205806_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/smart-forjeremy-628-1354205806.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/10/2013-smart-fortwo-electric-drive-first-drive-review/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/10/2013-smart-fortwo-electric-drive-first-drive-review/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/10/2013-smart-fortwo-electric-drive-first-drive-review/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Little Daimler Child Finally Nails It With Electrons

2013 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive

Since the official launch of the Smart Fortwo in October 1998, the little company within Daimler has never made a profit. Far from it. Not for lack of trying, certainly. Many of us know well the story of myriad attempts to force the world to adopt the Smart way of living in the automotive sense, only to have the various chapters conclude in a disillusioning crash and financial burn.

Smart is still trying desperately to find its proper path as a global player that sells rather well - and not just in London and a few Italian and German cities. They insist that China is the great frontier nowadays for the Fortwo in all of its trims, and they still want to figure out North America.

Is electricity the only way to force the breakthrough? We drove the previous generation Smart Fortwo Electric Drive a couple of years ago and had an amazingly good time at it. The punch for traffic holeshots was addictive, and the size of the trinket-on-wheels is ideal for big-shouldered cities - this cannot be debated no matter your personal feelings about the car.

But whereas the Germans and Roger Penske firmly believed that crisis-stricken North Americans would come in droves to the Smart dealer, begging for a Fortwo of any type given the model's efficiencies, most consumers never made the transition of seeing the Fortwo as anything but a purchase for when you have spare change lying around and want a third toy in the garage. And young buyers who can only afford a single vehicle generally want that car to have luggage space and four seats. A more reasonable bang for buck doesn't hurt either.

Seeing as electric vehicles are slowly convincing us (very slowly) that there's some sense in their costing more than traditional-engine cars, Smart sees this as a big opportunity to offer something that still has an inflated price and more premium early adopter lifestyle aura. We have our significant doubts about all of this working, but let's get on with the drive.

Continue reading 2013 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive

2013 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 10 Oct 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 smart fortwo electric driveevfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivefortwofortwo electric driveminicarsmartsmart ev Wed, 10 Oct 2012 11:57:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20346461/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/10/2013-smart-fortwo-electric-drive-first-drive-review/20346461/article-detail.xml 20346461 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-smart-fortwo-ed-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-smart-fortwo-ed-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Smart Electric Drive ad offers blockbuster treatment for tiny car]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/04/smart-electric-drive-ad-offers-blockbuster-treatment-for-tiny-ca/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/04/smart-electric-drive-ad-offers-blockbuster-treatment-for-tiny-ca/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/04/smart-electric-drive-ad-offers-blockbuster-treatment-for-tiny-ca/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Drama, suspense, romance, horror - just about everything you might want from a great big-budget flick has been packed into this minute-long masterpiece from Smart (or its ad agency, anyway).

Smart has been pushing its 2013 ForTwo fairly aggressively over recent weeks, debuting new series of commercials aimed at changing minds about the diminutive two-seater. This spot for the upcoming ForTwo Electric Drive is no different, but it may just be the best of the bunch.

Watch all the way through - it's worth it.

Continue reading Smart Electric Drive ad offers blockbuster treatment for tiny car

Smart Electric Drive ad offers blockbuster treatment for tiny car originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 04 Oct 2012 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 smart fortwo ed2013 smart fortwo electric drivecommercialsfortwofortwo electric drivesmartvideovideosyoutube Thu, 04 Oct 2012 19:29:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20342169/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/04/smart-electric-drive-ad-offers-blockbuster-treatment-for-tiny-ca/20342169/article-detail.xml 20342169 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/smart-ed-commercial-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/smart-ed-commercial-628.jpg <![CDATA[2015 Smart ForFour caught in early testing]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/01/2015-smart-forfour-caught-in-early-testing/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/01/2015-smart-forfour-caught-in-early-testing/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/01/2015-smart-forfour-caught-in-early-testing/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



In North America, we've come to know the Smart brand just for its ForTwo, but other markets have seen a wider variety of models from the Daimler brand including the Smart ForFour that was produced from 2004 through 2006. This bigger vehicle from Smart added two extra doors and a rear seat for some passenger space. While we've already seen spy photos for the next ForTwo, judging by these spy shots of a stretched-wheelbase test mule, Smart is hard at work developing a next-generation ForFour as well.

Although the previous ForFour was a result of a collaboration between Daimler and Mitsubishi, the new model is going to be a venture between Daimler and Nissan/Renault. Under the Penske ownership, it was announced that the new Smart B-segment car would be based on the Nissan Micra (which was later scrapped), but we hear that this car will actually ride on a new platform that will eventually be the basis for the next Renault Twingo. Like the current and upcoming ForTwo, the 2015 ForFour will be a rear-engine/rear-wheel-drive car.

While we don't have any information as to what will power the new Smart ForFour, we can almost guarantee that it (along with the new ForTwo) will have a styling that will be very similar to recent Smart concept cars like the ForStars, For-Us and ForVision. The new ForTwo is expected to go on sale in 2014 with the bigger ForFour hitting dealers a year later.

Image Credit: CarPix

Continue reading 2015 Smart ForFour caught in early testing

2015 Smart ForFour caught in early testing originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 01 Oct 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2015 smart forfourforfoursmartsmart carspy photosspy shots Mon, 01 Oct 2012 17:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20338433/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/01/2015-smart-forfour-caught-in-early-testing/20338433/article-detail.xml 20338433 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2015-smart-forfour-mule_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2015-smart-forfour-mule.jpg <![CDATA[Smart Forstars Concept is a rolling drive-in movie theater in orange]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/smart-forstars-concept-video-paris-2012/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/smart-forstars-concept-video-paris-2012/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/smart-forstars-concept-video-paris-2012/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Smart Forstars Concept

Smart tells us that its new Forstars Concept is a Sports Utility Coupé. We're pretty sure that's a misnomer. After all, the electric powertrain, while supremely efficient, isn't a powerhouse. Plus, with room for just two occupants and a golf bag plus toiletries, utility doesn't really seem to be its forte either.

So, what is the Smart Forstars good for? Well, judging from our image gallery, it makes an excellent prop for impossibly cute auto show models to lean against. Plus, it's got a completely clear roof, which is how it got its name - you can stare at the stars... get it? Oh, and it also sports an integrated projector on its hood for impromptu drive-in movie nights.

Power comes from a 60-kW electric motor and 17.6-kWh lithium ion battery pack, and Smart claims a top speed of 128 kilometres per hour (80 miles per hour).

As you can see, the exterior, which reportedly previews the automaker's future design direction, is painted in a bright hue that Smart calls Alubeam Rouge, and the interior is finished in white, red and matching orange. Check out the nifty projector feature in the official video below and be sure to peruse the official press release while you're at it.

Continue reading Smart Forstars Concept is a rolling drive-in movie theater in orange

Smart Forstars Concept is a rolling drive-in movie theater in orange originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> drive-inforstarsfortwomovie projectorparisparis 2012paris motor showprojectorsmartsmart forstars Fri, 28 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20335936/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/28/smart-forstars-concept-video-paris-2012/20335936/article-detail.xml 20335936 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/smart-forstars-concept-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/smart-forstars-concept-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Smart hopes to jump-start brand by offering cheapest electric car]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/17/smart-hopes-to-jump-start-brand-by-offering-cheapest-electric-ca/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/17/smart-hopes-to-jump-start-brand-by-offering-cheapest-electric-ca/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/17/smart-hopes-to-jump-start-brand-by-offering-cheapest-electric-ca/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Bloomberg has reported that Daimler is looking at the Smart ForTwo Electric Drive to recharge the division's relevance and brand perception, and part of how the ForTwo ED will do that is by being the first mass-produced and the least expensive German electric car on the market. Some context: Bloomberg says the brand seeks 10,000 annual sales for its electron-powered runabout, which is just 10 per cent of Smart global sales. More important than how many ForTwo EDs are sold, however, would be the fact that by beating the BMW i3 and electric Volkswagen e-Up! to market, it would "re-establish the brand's position as an urban mobility pioneer with the first mass-produced electric auto from a German manufacturer."

At least, that's the plan - one that we're inclined to file under "Things That Make You Go Hmmm...." We enjoyed our time in the ForTwo ED; the electric drivetrain was a perfect fit and remedied what is perhaps the principal gripe with the current car (in Canada, at least) - its less-than-smooth transmission. Nevertheless, even though people open to electric cars and the premiums that electric and range-extended vehicles command, we have a feeling that Smart's pricing will continue to make it tough for the little guy to compete.

A conventional Smart starts at €10,275 (CAD$13,081) in Germany, and a conventional VW Up! is €9,850 (CAD$12,540). The ForTwo ED has been priced at €18,910 (CAD$24,078) plus €65 (CAD$82.76) per month for the battery - and we'd be surprised if VW didn't make sure the larger, plusher e-Up! was right there with it. The Renault Zoe - not German, we know - will be slightly more expensive at €20,600 (CAD$26,234), plus a monthly fee for the battery, but the Zoe is a four-door hatchback the size of a Clio. Pricing for this landmass hasn't been announced, but the electric competition generally hits the mid-$30K mark: the four-door, four-seat Mitsubishi i-MiEV sets the low end at $32,998, the Nissan Leaf at $38,395, the BMW i3 is rumored to come in around $40,000, the Fiat 500E is predicted to be right there, too, and that's supposedly after Fiat swallows a hefty loss on each car. Chevrolet sets the high bar with the range-extended Volt at $41,545.

The question is, how much less-expensive would the Smart ForTwo ED need to be to still attract customers if and when the electric city-car competition really gets going? With just one car in its lineup, even the conventional ForTwo can't be priced to both attract the desired number of buyers and provide a decent profit margin. In spite of eyebrow-raising analyst commentary in the Bloomberg piece like, "The potential demand for the e-Smart is huge, because people have been brainwashed toward electric vehicles for the last couple of years," we wonder if the Smart ForTwo ED is really the car to take advantage of that "brainwashing" over the long term, or if the only thing it really has going for it, for now at least, is that head start.

Click here to see a video of the Smart ForTwo ED in action and view the photo gallery.

News Source: Bloomberg

Image Credit: Copyright 2012 Zach Bowman / AOL


Gallery: 2014 Smart ForTwo test mule spy photos

Continue reading Smart hopes to jump-start brand by offering cheapest electric car

Smart hopes to jump-start brand by offering cheapest electric car originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 17 Sep 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> daimlerelectric carsEVfortwofortwo electric drivefortwo evsmart Mon, 17 Sep 2012 10:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20324993/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/17/smart-hopes-to-jump-start-brand-by-offering-cheapest-electric-ca/20324993/article-detail.xml 20324993 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/smartevcheapest_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/smartevcheapest.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Smart ForTwo gets three bite-size new ads]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/13/2013-smart-fortwo-gets-three-bite-size-new-ads/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/13/2013-smart-fortwo-gets-three-bite-size-new-ads/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/13/2013-smart-fortwo-gets-three-bite-size-new-ads/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



For such a lilliputian car, the Smart ForTwo has giant staying power. The hatch that still gets wary glances is not only still kicking here in the U.S., it's done ten-straight months of year-on-year sales increases. That kind of success calls for ad an campaign, and we have it in three new 15-second - bite-sized in Smart-speak - commercials.

Two of them, "Tough" and "Joy Ride" have begun running now, the third, "Custom Made," will start airing later this month. They'll be rolled out absolutely everywhere a commercial can be shown, and they'll be joined by banner ads and Facebook activity. We could tell you what they're about, but remember, they're only bite-sized, and you'll find all three just below.

Continue reading 2013 Smart ForTwo gets three bite-size new ads

2013 Smart ForTwo gets three bite-size new ads originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 13 Sep 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 smart fortwoadvertisingcommercialcustom madefortwojoy ridesmarttoughvideovideosyoutube Thu, 13 Sep 2012 09:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20322366/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/13/2013-smart-fortwo-gets-three-bite-size-new-ads/20322366/article-detail.xml 20322366 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/smartcellad_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/smartcellad.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Smart ForTwo prototype shows itself]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/08/28/2014-smart-fortwo-prototype-shows-itself/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/08/28/2014-smart-fortwo-prototype-shows-itself/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/08/28/2014-smart-fortwo-prototype-shows-itself/#comments Filed under: ,

2014 Smart ForTwo prototype - front three-quarter view

From the looks of these spy shots, Daimler is hard at work on the 2014 Smart ForTwo, giving us our first look next generation of this micro car. With the partnership between Renault and Daimler finally coming to fruition, the Smart will likely share a platform with the Renault Twingo, and it will come in gasoline, diesel and electric variants.

In terms of styling, the test mule doesn't reveal much, but expect the new ForTwo to utilize some of the design cues introduced on recent concept vehicles like the 2011 ForVision Concept and the 2012 For-Us Concept. One thing we can see with this prototype is that the car appears to have gotten a little bigger with boxier proportions closer to the Scion iQ. Thanks to a bolted-on scoop on the rear part of the car's roof, we can tell that the 2014 ForTwo will continue to have its engine mounted in the rear.

For a release date, the production version of the new ForTwo appears to be heading to the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, but we wouldn't be surprised to see another ForTwo-teasing Smart concept later this year.

Hit the jump for a closer look at our full spy photo gallery.

News Source: CarPix

2014 Smart ForTwo prototype shows itself originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 smart fortwofortwosmartsmart carspy shots Tue, 28 Aug 2012 15:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20311071/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/28/2014-smart-fortwo-prototype-shows-itself/20311071/article-detail.xml 20311071 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2014-smart-fortwo-spy-photos_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2014-smart-fortwo-spy-photos.jpg <![CDATA[Smart and BRABUS celebrate 10 years together with special edition model]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/22/smart-and-brabus-celebrate-10-years-together-with-special-editio/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/22/smart-and-brabus-celebrate-10-years-together-with-special-editio/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/22/smart-and-brabus-celebrate-10-years-together-with-special-editio/#comments Filed under: , ,

Smart BRABUS 10th anniversary edition

Hard to believe, but BRABUS and Smart have been building cars together for 10 years now. Worldwide, more than 50,000 customized cars have been built by the team. To celebrate, the two are producing just 100 specially-equipped cars.

The 10th Anniversary model starts with a Smart Fortwo BRABUS with the 102hp turbocharged engine. The car is then slathered in liquid silver paint and given titanium-look headlamp surrounds and red BRABUS logos.

Inside, passengers get heated, hand-stitched, black leather seats with 10th Anniversary logos, red trim bits and a dash badge noting the car's serial number. The car's start button is integrated into the shifter.

Read the never-ending press release past the jump for more on the 10-year history of the BRABUS and Smart partnership.

Continue reading Smart and BRABUS celebrate 10 years together with special edition model

Smart and BRABUS celebrate 10 years together with special edition model originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 22 Jul 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 10th anniversary10th anniversary editionBrabusfortwoSmart Sun, 22 Jul 2012 20:01:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20283423/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/22/smart-and-brabus-celebrate-10-years-together-with-special-editio/20283423/article-detail.xml 20283423 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2012-brabus-smart-10th-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2012-brabus-smart-10th-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes to market Tesla-powered 2014 B-Class EV]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/mercedes-to-market-tesla-powered-2014-b-class-ev-in-u-s/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/mercedes-to-market-tesla-powered-2014-b-class-ev-in-u-s/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/mercedes-to-market-tesla-powered-2014-b-class-ev-in-u-s/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class - white - front three-quarter static view

Looks like another Tesla Motors investor will be looking to cash in on their connection. Autoweek reports Mercedes-Benz will offer their B-Class with Tesla propulsion.

The magazine says their source at the German automaker confirms plans for a B-Class electric-only vehicle. While Tesla already provides battery packs for the battery-powered Smart ForTwo, the B-Class EV will reportedly have Tesla batteries, motor and other components. North American residents should be able to procure one sometime in 2014.

The same Mercedes source says plans for a hybrid B-Class have been postponed for now. Adding a range-extending, gasoline-powered engine to an electric vehicle would put the car into a different class for which rebates and incentives aren't as favorable in the States.

Mercedes-Benz parent Daimler owns a 4.7-per cent share of Tesla. Toyota also owns part of the electric-car company with which it builds electric RAV4 crossovers.

News Source: Autoweek

Image Credit: Copyright 2012 Matt Davis / AOL, Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes to market Tesla-powered 2014 B-Class EV originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 05 Jul 2012 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> b classb-classb-class evb-klassedaimlerelectrichybridmercedes-benztesla Thu, 05 Jul 2012 08:55:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20272023/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/05/mercedes-to-market-tesla-powered-2014-b-class-ev-in-u-s/20272023/article-detail.xml 20272023 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2012-mercedes-benz-b-class-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2012-mercedes-benz-b-class-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Smart bringing electric scooter to North America in 2014]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/24/smart-bringing-electric-scooter-to-u-s-in-2014-will-be-part-of/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/24/smart-bringing-electric-scooter-to-u-s-in-2014-will-be-part-of/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/24/smart-bringing-electric-scooter-to-u-s-in-2014-will-be-part-of/#comments Filed under: , , ,



In a blink-and-you'd-miss-it announcement during an event in Berlin, the head of marketing and sales for Smart, Martin Hülder, told us that the third model in the Smart e-Mobility range - after the Smart ForTwo Electric Drive and eBike - will be the Smart electric scooter (or "smart scooter"). To be fair, the original announcement happened in mid-May at a shindig in Davos, Switzerland, but Daimler had some new news for us in Berlin.

The stylish two-wheeler was first shown at the 2010 Paris Motor Show but was whisked into limbo from there, presumably to end up a no-go along with several previous ideas from the traditionally cash-burning company. Instead, the scooter has gotten the green light and North America is a key market for it.

To rehash the features of the silent plug-in runabout, a 48-volt lithium-ion battery pack stored down low behind your feet supplies juice to a 4-kW (i.e. 5.4 horsepower) wheel-hub electric motor at the rear wheel. Top speed is listed at 45 km/h - a choice by Smart that allows the scooter to be driven on streets in many countries before one has a driver's licence.

Click past the jump for more info and videos.

Continue reading Smart bringing electric scooter to North America in 2014

Smart bringing electric scooter to North America in 2014 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 24 Jun 2012 13:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> car2goelectricescooterparisparis motor showscootersmartsmart electric scootersmart scooter Sun, 24 Jun 2012 13:07:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20265000/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/24/smart-bringing-electric-scooter-to-u-s-in-2014-will-be-part-of/20265000/article-detail.xml 20265000 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/escooter-lead-image_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/escooter-lead-image.jpg <![CDATA[Smart cars don't take crap from anyone]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/smart-doesnt-take-crap-from-anyone/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/smart-doesnt-take-crap-from-anyone/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/smart-doesnt-take-crap-from-anyone/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Smart Twitter Response

The minds at Smart took to Twitter to make a point about the manufacturer's tridion safety cell recently. Clayton Hove, who runs a snarky blog about advertising, joked that he "Saw a bird had crapped on a Smart Car. Totaled it," leaving the door wide open for Smart to work up a response. And respond the automaker did.

Smart USA fired off a tweet of its own, complete with an infographic (click above to enlarge) depicting exactly how much bird excrement it would take to damage the vehicle's safety cell. According to Smart, the structure can withstand up to 9,000 pounds of pressure, which equates to around 4.5 million pigeon droppings.

Smart didn't stop at just doing the math. The company worked up a handy infographic to break down exactly how many turkey or emu droppings would do the same damage. Turns out those numbers are 360,000 and 45,000, respectively. Hilarious.

Check out Smart Twitter account to see the original exchange.

News Source: Twitter via Reddit

Continue reading Smart cars don't take crap from anyone

Smart cars don't take crap from anyone originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 21 Jun 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bird crapbird droppingspigeonsmartsmart bird crap tweetsmart fortwosmart tweettweettwitter Thu, 21 Jun 2012 16:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20263637/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/21/smart-doesnt-take-crap-from-anyone/20263637/article-detail.xml 20263637 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/smart-twitter-response-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/smart-twitter-response-628.jpg <![CDATA[Smart ForTwo Iceshine won't make your hair look any better]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/15/smart-fortwo-iceshine-wont-make-your-hair-look-any-better/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/15/smart-fortwo-iceshine-wont-make-your-hair-look-any-better/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/15/smart-fortwo-iceshine-wont-make-your-hair-look-any-better/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2012 Smart ForTwo Iceshine front three-quarter view, blue and white

This must be a first: Smart has named its latest special edition ForTwo after a shampoo. Not really, but clearly someone at Daimler did not do due diligence (or use Google) before dreaming up the Iceshine moniker.

The Smart ForTwo Iceshine is a special edition based on the model's Passion trim level, while Ice Shine is a variety of Pantene. Coming in white and a special azure blue, the vehicular Iceshine matches those exterior colors with white alloys and white mirrors to give the Smartfortwo a positively twenty-five year-old feel. Other equipment includes LED daytime running lamps, "leather effect" seats, and a three-spoke leather steering wheel. Interior trim is done up in - you guessed it - white, including the rings around the Fortwo's instrumentation. Frankly, we're finding all of this about as exciting as washing your hair.

Smart will be looking to push only 1,800 of these onto the German market, starting at just over $18,000 for the coupe and roughly $22,000 for the convertible.

Scroll down to read the full press release and be sure to check out our gallery. And don't forget to bathe.

News Source: Smart

Continue reading Smart ForTwo Iceshine won't make your hair look any better

Smart ForTwo Iceshine won't make your hair look any better originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 15 Jun 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> daimlerfortwofortwo special editiongermanyiceshinesmart Fri, 15 Jun 2012 13:29:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20259597/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/15/smart-fortwo-iceshine-wont-make-your-hair-look-any-better/20259597/article-detail.xml 20259597 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/smart-fortwo-iceshine-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/smart-fortwo-iceshine-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe amongst surprises at Vancouver Auto Show]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/b/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/b/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/b/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,



Being the final major auto show of the season here in Canada, the Vancouver International Auto Show can sometimes offer up a surprise or two.

Along with all the major brands showing off new vehicles previously revealed in Montreal, Toronto, or at a show overseas, such as Geneva, Tokyo, or even LA, Detroit, or Chicago (New York is too close to the Vancouver show this year so Vancouver show-goers won't likely see the new Chevy Impala, Lexus ES, or any of the other cars expected to debut there ... although simultaneous reveals have occurred before), the 92nd annual Vancouver event brings a rare North American debut and an especially sweet moviestar car from Hollywood.

BMW has chosen Vancouver, one of its hottest markets, for the North American unveiling of its all-new 6 Series Gran Coupe, a cross between its popular 5 Series sedan and sporty 6 Series two-door Coupe. The 6 Series Gran Coupe was first shown only weeks ago in Geneva. But that is only a taste of what else is in store at BC Place.

Click for more highlights planned for the Vancouver Auto Show, which kicks off tomorrow at noon.

Continue reading BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe amongst surprises at Vancouver Auto Show

BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe amongst surprises at Vancouver Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 20132013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe6 series gran coupe6 series gran coupe revealBMWBMW 6 Series Gran Coupecanadian autoshowvancouver auto showvancouver autoshowvancouver autoshow 2012vancouver car dealersvancouver interenational auto show 2012 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20207001/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/02/b/20207001/article-detail.xml 20207001 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/vancouver-auto-show-2012-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/vancouver-auto-show-2012-630.jpg -1 2