[AllFinancialMatters] Is 41 Miles per Gallon Enough to Justify Buying a Smart?

I was just on the SmartUSA website. I have seen a few Smarts driving around town and thought I would check them out. Their prices aren’t too bad and I think they are nice-looking cars. But, I have to say I’m disappointed with their fuel economy, which is 33/41 (city/highway). Keep in mind that those numbers are estimates. We all know how those numbers usually don’t reflect reality. In reality, you’re going to be lucky to get 30/38 (city/highway). In my opinion, that’s not good enough to justify buying an extremely small two-passenger vehicle. A Honda Civic has an estimated MPG of 26/34 (23/31) and offers seating for five—though comfort is questionable.

The Smart is hip and will get some attention but I think the Civic (or some other equitable small car) is a better choice.

What’s your opinion? Would you own a Smart? If so, why?