Styled by Mercedes-Benz, Smart #2 debuts – EV fortwo successor, 82 PS, 299 km range

Smart has unveiled the all-electric Smart #2 at the 2026 Paris Motor Show. This tiny city car, which accommodates just two people, serves as the successor to the iconic Smart fortwo and the original Smart City Coupe, which made its debut 26 years ago at the same Paris Motor Show.

Naturally, it is worth comparing its dimensions with those of the original, and fortunately, the new model has not grown too much, considering how cars nowadays seem to get bigger with every generation. The Smart #2 measures 2,746 mm long, making it 246 mm longer than the original. Its overall length fits within the wheelbase of the Smart #1. Its width has also increased by 250 mm compared to the original, now measuring 1,760 mm. Despite the increase in size, it has a turning circle of just 6.95 metres kerb-to-kerb, ensuring excellent manoeuvrability on narrow city streets.

The Smart #2 is built on the Electric Compact Architecture (ECA) and continues to feature rear-wheel drive, with a single electric motor mounted on the rear axle producing 82 PS and 130 Nm of torque. Its power output is no more impressive than that of the previous Smart EQ fortwo, which produces the same power but delivers 30 Nm more torque. However, the latest model makes up for this in terms of range.

Equipped with a 35.8 kWh LFP battery, the Smart #2 has a WLTP range of up to 290 km, double the range of the Smart EQ fortwo. DC fast charging is supported at up to 65 kW, allowing the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in just 20 minutes. It also supports AC charging at up to 11 kW, taking three hours to charge fully.

One of the key highlights is that the Smart #2 is still designed by the Mercedes-Benz Global Design Team. It features an aggressive front end, a large grille with rectangular openings, and sharp yet rounded headlights. It also has a visually separated roof, which can be specified in a two-tone colour scheme. Presumably in response to China’s upcoming ban on electric door handles by 2027, the Smart #2 uses conventional pull-type door handles.

Although the Tridion safety cell is no longer highlighted in a contrasting colour as before, it remains a key feature, now renamed the Tridion Cell Evo. It continues to provide a robust structure without increasing the car’s overall dimensions. However, the Smart #2’s standout feature is at the rear, where the signature split tailgate returns, revealing a surprisingly generous 305-litre boot. Completing the look are stylish 15- and 16-inch wheel options.

The Smart #2 pays homage to the original fortwo with its S-shaped dashboard, while adopting conventional side-by-side seating. The seats form a bench-like arrangement, allowing the passenger to slide across and exit through the opposite door when space is limited. The cabin is more modern, featuring an 8.8-inch digital instrument display, a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, and physical controls, although air-conditioning adjustments remain screen-based.

The Smart #2 features Mercedes-Benz-style turbine air vents, large circular door handles and armrests, along with a range of convenience features, including a Qi wireless charger, a powered driver’s seat, an optional panoramic glass roof and a seven-speaker Sennheiser sound system. Practical touches include accessory mounting points and a passenger-seat strap to secure shopping bags.

In Germany, the Smart #2 starts at €19,990 (approximately RM91,200) and comes standard with Level 2 smart Pilot Assist, while blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are optional. A limited-run Couture Edition draws inspiration from the more flamboyant styling of the Concept #2 unveiled earlier this year. It features Atelier White Matte paint, a bodykit, gold accents, and a monogrammed grille with ‘leather strap’ detailing. It is priced at €25,690 (RM117,200).

Could the Smart #2 come to Malaysia? Proton subsidiary Pro-Net distributes the Smart brand locally, but given the relatively small market for expensive two-seater cars, the chances seem slim, especially for a locally assembled version.