Smart Fortwo Pulse cabrio

Meet the only model in our test to refer to its carrying capacity in its name. It’s the Smart ForTwo, which is all about making the most of its small dimensions.

Now in its second generation, the two-seater is bigger than the original City Coupé, yet has a similar shape and construction. Its strong structure is wrapped around a unique rear-engined, rear-wheel-drive layout for the ultimate in urban transport.

At 2,695mm in length, the Smart is over one metre shorter than the MINI Cooper, but still provides lots of space for two. Driver and passenger sit high up, getting a great view. While the cabin isn’t as characterful as the previous model’s, its design is cute. Plus, the boot has room for a couple of overnight bags.

Continuing the unique feel is the three-cylinder turbocharged engine – although in our tests it was a poor performer.

The sluggish automated manual box made ham-fisted changes, leaving the Smart as the slowest-accelerating car in this group. Thankfully, the brakes were better, stopping the ForTwo in 49 metres from 70mph. As it has only two seats, there’s no fully laden figure, yet if you travel on your own you could expect to pull up sooner.

Only the costs don’t add up. Our mid-spec drop-top is £10,245, leading to a hefty price-per-head of £5,122.50. Then there are the practicalities of a two-seater. If you ever need to pick up more than one person, you will find the Smart a frustrating choice.