July 1, 2008

The New Smart diesel model in coming to Britain.  Boasting the worlds lowest CO2 emissions of any current production car the Fortwo cdi emits just 88g/km.  Mercedes Benz, who make the supermini, have confirmed that from February the frugal runner will go into right hand drive production.

Hand in hand with the impressive green credentials goes an impressive return from fuel in the tank. Fuel consumption on the combined cycle is 85.6mpg. This means the new smart can travel 670 miles between top-ups, far enough to drive from Dover to Middlesbrough and back with petrol to spare if you needed to pop to the shops when you get back.

Dermot Kelly, Managing Director, Mercedes-Benz Cars, said: “The cdi gives customers the whole range of smart benefits when driving in and around the city, with the added bonus of low cost, long distance motoring.  Our retailers are reporting heightened interest in the iconic two-seater; registrations are buoyant and we think the addition of the smart cdi to the range early next year will give added momentum.”

The car’s Mercedes-Benz-developed three-cylinder common-rail diesel engine develops a healthy 45hp, which when combined with the cars light weight offers useful performance as well as economy. The diesel model will be available in both coupé and cabrio versions.The smart cdi also benefits from all the enhancements currently available in the new smart fortwo petrol models, including improved ride and handling, impressive safety rating, a larger boot, more elbow and shoulder room, comfier seats, upgraded trim and a revised dashboard layout with a more efficient ventilation system.  There is also a new five-speed semi-automatic transmission offering both fully automatic and manual modes.

As fuel prices continue to escalate greater numbers will look to cars that offer big figures in the  economy column of the cars vital stats.

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