Does Smart Make a 4x4 or AWD?

The Smart car is known for its incredibly compact size and ease of parking. But many drivers wonder - does Smart offer any 4x4 or all-wheel drive models?

This guide will provide a complete overview of whether any Smart 4x4 or AWD models exist. We’ll explore Smart's vehicle lineup, options, and capabilities to determine if small off-road Smarts are available.

While beloved for city driving, Smart cars lack 4x4 capabilities. But we’ll look at alternatives like added ground clearance to enhance rough terrain handling. Read on for the definitive guide to Smart 4x4 and AWD models!

Overview of the Smart Brand

Smart is a German automotive brand that specializes in efficient and maneuverable microcars. Smart cars first launched in 1998 as a joint venture between Mercedes and Swiss watchmaker Swatch.

Key facts about Smart cars:

  • Extremely compact size for easy parking.
  • RWD and electric drivetrains available.
  • Highly customizable with accessories.
  • Designed specifically for urban areas.
  • Brand acquired by Mercedes-Benz in 2019.

The tiny Smart Fortwo is their signature model. With a unique rear-engine layout and just 8.8ft length, it’s truly tiny yet surprisingly roomy inside.

Currently Smart offers just two models in the United States:

  • Fortwo Coupe - Two seat coupe with 8.8ft length. $15,400 starting MSRP.
  • Fortwo Cabrio - Two seat convertible with 8.8ft length. $18,900 starting MSRP.

Sadly, neither car comes with 4x4 or AWD capability from the factory. But let’s look closer at the features of each.

Smart Fortwo Coupe Overview

The Fortwo coupe provides a sporty, compact runabout. Details include:

  • RWD drivetrain
  • 89hp 1.0L 3-cylinder engine
  • Auto or manual transmission
  • Tight 8.8ft turning radius
  • 6.95ft width fits most parking spots
  • 24.6ft curb-to-curb U-turn diameter
  • Up to 38mpg fuel efficiency

Performance

The rear engine Smart cars accelerate quickly off the line but have a top speed of just 90mph. Handling is nimble but the short wheelbase can make highway driving unsettled.

Exterior

The Fortwo coupe measures 106" long and 65" tall for its ultracompact footprint. Available panoramic sunroof enhances the airy interior.

Interior

Surprisingly roomy interior provides seating for two adults along with 9.2 cubic ft of cargo space. Leather upholstery and premium audio available.

Safety

Standard safety features include:

  • Crosswind assist
  • Hill start assist
  • ABS brakes
  • Stability control
  • Driver/passenger airbags

Rated Good in IIHS crash testing.

Smart Fortwo Cabrio Overview

The Fortwo cabrio has an automated soft top to bring open air driving. Details include:

  • Electrohydraulic powered convertible top opens at up to 31mph
  • Same 8.8ft length and 6.95ft width as coupe
  • 89hp engine and auto or manual transmissions
  • Lower profile with top closed than Porsche Boxster
  • Precise handling from short wheelbase
  • Up to 36mpg fuel efficiency

Performance

Acceleration and handling mimic the coupe with zippy launch and agile cornering. The soft top does add minimal body flex.

Exterior

With the top down, overall height grows to 6ft 7in but retains a tiny footprint. The weight stays under 2000lbs.

Interior

The convertible top does limit cargo space to just 5.4 cubic ft. But interior room itself is largely unchanged from the coupe.

Safety

The cabrio does not compromise safety with added:

  • Roll bars
  • Door reinforcements
  • Seatbelt pretensioners
  • Strengthened floorpan

It achieves the same Good crash test rating as the coupe.

Does Smart Offer Any 4x4 or AWD Models?

So in summary - no, unfortunately Smart does not currently offer any production 4x4 or AWD models.

The standard Fortwo coupe and cabrio both come exclusively with rear-wheel-drive. No versions with 4WD or all-wheel drive are available.

Smart focuses entirely on compact size and lightness rather than off-road capability. Their microcars are designed purposely for urban areas and tight parking spaces.

Adding 4x4 would require significant changes to their drivetrain layout and reduce interior room. It would also add considerable cost, weight and complexity that conflicts with Smart's core mission.

For true off-road driving, you'll need to look to other small 4x4 options or consider modifying a Fortwo.

Why Don't Smarts Have 4-Wheel Drive?

Smart engineers have intentionally optimized their cars for congested cities where their size shines.

Here are some specific reasons Smart avoids developing 4x4 models:

Added Weight

4WD systems add several hundred pounds over a typical RWD or FWD setup. This hampers fuel economy and performance which are critical for small city cars.

Reduced Cargo Room

The compact Smart engine bay leaves no room for a driveshaft and rear differential for 4WD. This would eat into interior space.

Increased Cost and Complexity

A 4x4 system requires additional drivetrain components like a transfer case, rear differential and driveshaft. This also needs more complex software controls. The costs and maintenance are simply not aligned with Smart's mission.

Limited Off-Road Demand

Smarts focus on city driving and parking. Very few owners take them off-roading. The demand for a Smart 4x4 simply isn't there relative to their core urban audience.

For all these reasons, Smart keeps their vehicles simple and optimized for congested urban areas where they shine. While a novel idea, a true Smart 4x4 or AWD is not realistic given the brand's purpose.

What About Aftermarket Smart Car Lift Kits?

The best option if you want to enhance a Smart for mild off-roading is an aftermarket lift kit.

These allow fitting slightly larger tires and provide extra ground clearance. While not 4WD, a lift kit can improve rough terrain capability and gravel road handling.

Popular options include:

  • Carlsson 1.6in Lift Kit - Simple spacer kit provides nearly 2 more inches of clearance.
  • URBAN Performance 2in Lift Kit - More advanced kit adds chassis spacers and longer struts for better articulation. Bigger tires can be fitted.
  • Boz Bros 3in Lift Kit - For maximum lift, this kit includes new struts, axles spacers and skid plates. Not CARB compliant in California.

Keep in mind any lifting of a Smart Fortwo will hamper roll stability and ride comfort. So use caution taking an aftermarket lifted Smart off-road.

What Other Micro 4x4s Compare to the Smart?

The Smart doesn't offer 4WD, but other microcars do provide true off-road capability:

Suzuki Jimny

This classic Japanese mini SUV offers impressive traction from a part-time 4WD system transferring up to 50% power to the rear wheels. With 8.6 inches of ground clearance and rigid axles, it's designed for serious off-roading, unlike the Smart.

Fiat Panda 4x4

Another pint-sized 4x4 option, the Italian Panda Cross provides 7 inches of ground clearance and special terrain control modes. The advanced traction system gives it surprising agility over rough terrain.

Daihatsu Taft

This ultra-compact Japanese 4x4 packs huge capability thanks to full-time 4WD, 7.9 inch clearance and low-range gearing. Its tiny footprint makes trails and traffic easy to navigate. A lifted Smart can't match its rock crawling prowess.

FAQs

Does Smart make an electric 4x4 model?

No, the electric Smart EQ models only come in standard rear-wheel-drive. Smart has not developed any electric 4x4 platforms.

Are there any Smart SUV models with 4x4?

Smart has not expanded beyond the Fortwo city car. They have no SUV models, much less any with 4WD systems.

Can you buy a Smart car and convert it to 4WD?

Because the Smart has its engine in the rear, converting to 4WD is almost impossible. You would need to move the entire drivetrain. It's not feasible.

Does Mercedes make a 4x4 Smart?

Mercedes-Benz has owned Smart since 2019 but has not changed its configuration. All Smarts under Mercedes ownership remain strictly RWD.

Does the BRABUS Smart car have AWD?

The special edition high-performance BRABUS Smarts are upgraded in many ways but still retain standard rear-wheel-drive. 4WD is not offered.

Take Your Smart Off-Road With Lift Kits

In summary - Smart focuses on efficient urban transportation and does not currently offer any production 4x4 models. The tiny engine bay simply has no room for a 4WD system.

But aftermarket lift kits can provide extra ground clearance to enhance light off-roading and gravel road capabilities.

For serious rock crawling or mudding, you'll need to look to other micro 4x4s like Suzuki or Daihatsu. The Smart shines best at what it's designed for - navigating congested cities.

So while not a true 4x4, a lifted Smart on proper tires can still deliver some fun when the pavement ends thanks to its nimble maneuvering. Just take it slow over uneven terrain and use good judgment.

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