Smart Electric Drive fortwo coupe

Overview

Get ready to zip through city streets in the 2016 Smart Electric Drive fortwo coupe! This pint-sized EV is all about urban agility and zero-emission cruising. While it was discontinued after this model year, making way for a new generation, it remains a quirky and distinctive choice on the used market. For around $4,999 (used), you get a two-seater that’s ridiculously easy to park and perfect for short hops. It’s a specialist, a true city slicker, offering a unique electric experience for those who don’t need acres of space or cross-country range.

What's New for 2016?

For the 2016 model year, the Smart Electric Drive fortwo coupe was largely a carryover from the previous year, marking the final iteration of this particular generation. While its gasoline-powered Smart sibling received a full redesign for 2016, the Electric Drive soldiered on with its established powertrain and quirky charm. Think of it as a well-loved classic taking its final bow before the all-new, next-generation Smart ED made its debut for the 2017 model year. So, no major new gadgets or gizmos for this electric warrior in 2016, just consistent city EV fun.

Design & Exterior

The 2016 Smart Electric Drive fortwo coupe is instantly recognizable with its super-compact, two-door hatchback design. It’s tiny, measuring just 106.1 inches long, 61.4 inches wide (excluding mirrors), and 61.6 inches tall, making it a parking champion. The exposed Tridion safety cell often contrasts with the body panels, giving it a unique two-tone look that’s become a Smart signature. It’s more about function and fun than outright aggression, with small wheels and a friendly face. This little EV is definitely not trying to blend in with the crowd; it’s proudly unconventional!

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the fortwo coupe and you'll find a surprisingly airy cabin for two, thanks to its tall-boy design. Materials are on the basic side, but it’s functional and quirky. Tech-wise, it's pretty old-school; expect a standard radio and perhaps basic connectivity, but don't go looking for fancy touchscreens or smartphone mirroring from this era. For your bits and bobs, there’s a modest 7.8 cubic feet of trunk space directly behind the seats. No frunk here, but enough room for groceries or a couple of weekend bags for your urban adventures.

Performance & Driving Experience

Don’t expect to win drag races, as 0-60 mph takes a leisurely 11.1 seconds, with a top speed of 78 mph. Its single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) sends 55 kW of power to the rear wheels. The provided data lists motor torque at just 22 lb-ft, which is exceptionally low. However, being electric, initial take-off for city speeds can still feel responsive. Its tiny turning circle makes U-turns a doddle. The ride can be a bit bouncy on rough roads due to its short 73.5-inch wheelbase, but it’s a hoot to pilot through congested streets.

Range, Battery & Charging

The 2016 Smart ED fortwo coupe packs a 16.7 kWh usable battery, giving you a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of around 66 miles – perfect for city errands. It sips energy at a rate of 3.95 mi/kWh. Charging is handled via a Type 1 (J1772) port, with a standard 3.7 kW on-board AC charger. This means a full top-up from empty will take roughly 4.5 to 5 hours on a Level 2 (240V) charger. Unfortunately, there’s no DC fast charging capability on this model, so plan your longer trips accordingly.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

While official NHTSA or Euro NCAP ratings for this specific 2016 EV trim aren't listed in the provided data, the Smart fortwo’s ace up its sleeve is the Tridion safety cell, a high-strength steel cage designed to protect occupants. Standard kit includes essentials like electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, and a suite of airbags. Don't expect advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise or lane-keeping assist; this car keeps it simple, focusing on fundamental safety in its compact package. Think of it as old-school safe for city driving.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

When new, the 2016 Smart Electric Drive likely came with a 4-year/50,000-mile basic vehicle warranty, typical for Mercedes-Benz affiliated brands. The crucial high-voltage battery was often covered for around 8 years or 60,000 to 100,000 miles, protecting against premature degradation. Powertrain coverage would align with the basic warranty. Maintenance is a breeze compared to gas cars – no oil changes! Just keep an eye on tires, brakes, and cabin filters. Generally, these little electric Smarts have proven to be quite reliable for their intended city-dwelling purpose.