Petite size
I don’t think a lot of expansion is needed on its size. For a new driver, smaller cars are always ideal. With the smart forfour you can put your car into any parking space with ease, whether in the city, the mall, through a drive-through, etc. Parking is made so much easier with a car this size.
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For the long haul
The smart forfour was available with two engines: a 52kW with a manual gearbox and a 66kW with an automatic gearbox. When tested some years back, journos had said they were surprised by the prowess on the highway in the 52kW variant. And it was surprising because these little cars are known to be city cars and not long-distance cars.
They were said to be very capable and soldiered through the infamous South-Easter wind in the Cape. It holds well to the road, which is what a new driver needs in a car is the stability, and its punchy little engine doesn’t feel like it’s only putting out 52kW.
Fuel consumption
Another advantage of the smart forfour is its frugal fuel consumption. Smart claimed a fuel consumption of just 4.2 litres/100km.
Simple interior
City cars need to be uncluttered inside and the smart forfour is simple. It has a few key buttons, dials and controls that are self-explanatory and intuitive. Less is more for new drivers because there’s less to distract you while you’re driving.
The seats are said to be durable and comfortable and the materials used around the cabin are child-friendly and won’t easily catch stubborn marks.
Verdict
As a new driver in search of a good entry-level or city car then the smart forfour is a good option to consider. It's unobtrusive and funky.
You won’t have to break the bank on fuel and you will be able to get a few shopping bags in the boot despite its looks.