If you are in the market for a compact car foryou, why not consider the smart forfour. The model was introduced locally in 2016, and we find out which of the top three trims are the one to choose.
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Photo GridThe smart fortwo and forfour models made their way to local shores during 2016 and were initially offered in three trim levels namely passion, prime and proxy. At a later stage, the manufacturer which is no longer selling new models locally added a Brabus model to the range of small city vehicles. However, if you are in the market for a used smart forfour there are service centres still available to maintain the vehicles.
For this article, we will be focussing on the automatic iterations of the Proxy, Prime and Brabus derivatives. All three variants are serviced by an 898 cc, turbocharged, 3-cylinder petrol engine which is coupled to a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. In the Proxy and Prime derivatives, the combination results in 66 kW and 135 Nm while in the Brabus it manages 80 kW and 170 Nm of torque.
All used smart forfour models come standard with the ABS brakes, traction control, cruise control and front and side airbags for both front occupants. Front electric windows and rear folding seats as well as ISOFIX anchor points also feature. However, items unique to the Prime model includes partial leather seats, climate control, a CD player and rear electric windows as well as 15-inch alloy wheels to complement the standard body-colour bumpers.
Optionally customers could opt for electric mirrors, front fog lights, heated mirrors, satellite navigation and parking sensors and these should be items to look out for when comparing used smart forfour models.
The Prime trim level retained most of the items on the Proxy, however, replaces the partial leather seats with full leather iterations. The seats not only feature new cladding but also offer heating in those cold winter months. While remaining 15-inch, the alloy wheels in each corner also see a new design applied to complement one of nine body-colour options that were available at launch.
The Brabus derivative managed to increase the overall performance of the smart forfour, however, saw many of the standard equipment on the Prime removed. In its standard configuration, the Brabus retains the CD player, climate control, parking sensors and rear electric windows. Stylistically the Brabus changed as it offers unique bumpers as well as 17-inch alloy wheels.
Optionally available to customers, and in many cases specified, electric mirrors, electric passenger’s seat, front fog lights, heated mirrors, heated seats, height-adjustable driver's seat, leather or sports seats trim, satellite navigation and steering wheel rake adjustment.
While it is tempting to just opt for the Brabus variant, it is important for customers to first investigate all the optional extras that are specified on the used smart forfour model. If you are less concerned about the power output of the Brabus or the more dynamic sports suspension, the Prime variant is the best compromise as it offers the most standard specification for the price.
Is the smart forfour good for new drivers? Here’s our verdict.
Ryno FourieRyno started his career capturing press images of the latest and greatest vehicles which have subsequently adorned the covers and pages of prominent motoring titles locally and internationally. After a short stint as a photography lecturer, he once again joined the automotive industry as a sub-editor and photographer for a local publication, however, currently, you will find him spending most of his time in the studio creating written, video, and photography content as part of the AutoTrader content team.View News & Reviews
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