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Smart Brabus

Some people will do anything to get noticed. As if the standard Smart isn't unusual enough, those wanting to stand out even more can now dip into the extensive options list and come out with a Smart Brabus.

By Chris Thorp

December 2002

Some people will do anything to get noticed. As if the standard Smart isn't unusual enough, those wanting to stand out even more can now dip into the extensive options list and come out with a Smart Brabus.

The German tuning company - more famous for its outrageous Mercedes conversions - has waved its wand over the city car and boosted its looks and performance. The accessories certainly make it more aggressive, with a front end that now resembles a snowplough and a more attractive rear, with centrally mounted twin exhaust pipes.

Brabus wheels are another welcome addition, giving the car a healthy dose of style, but making the Smart's hard ride even worse thanks to ultra-low-profile tyres. There's more to it than looks, though. By far the best part of the package is the paddleshift gear-change system, which is easier to use than the standard Smart's lever. The controls are situated behind the steering wheel and have a satisfying feel, which makes it simpler to extract smooth cog swaps from the quirky semi-auto transmission. The engine has been upgraded to deliver an extra 9bhp, taking the total to 70, but you'd be hard pushed to tell the difference this makes, as the Smart's limited pace is hardly altered. Acceleration is still modest, and the Brabus runs out of puff at 85mph.

So what does all this cost? A standard Smart City Coup

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FIRST OPINION

    You'll either love or loathe the Smart Brabus. Whether you see it as a tasteless styling conversion or a performance city car, one thing is certain - kitting it out can be expensive. Thankfully, you can pick and choose individual items, keeping the cost down.
 
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