Used buy: Smart ForFour

28th August 2006

Production of Smart’s ForFour has finally come to an end. But while the supermini never made financial sense for parent firm Mercedes, it could as a second-hand buy for you.

On sale since 2004, it is now starting to appear on the used market in good numbers. And with most examples having been owned by private buyers, they will have been well looked after. The quirky styling of the car’s ForTwo stablemate is neatly integrated into a five-door body, with many models being painted in a two-tone colour scheme. Inside, the dashboard is stylish and functional, and while space is at a premium, a sliding rear bench does help legroom. Thanks to nimble handling, the driving experience is fun, too.

There’s also a wide engine range to choose from, the best option being the 95bhp 1.3-litre four-cylinder unit, which offers good acceleration and should provide fuel returns around the 40mpg mark.

So, how much do you pay? Well, prices kick off at £5,000 for a 1.1-litre Pulse, while £6,000 should buy a 1.3-litre car in top-spec Passion trim. This adds alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof and all-important air-conditioning.

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