Overview
The Smart EQ ForTwo is the smallest electric car available. It's designed purely for urban use — two seats, tiny dimensions, and limited range that requires daily charging.
Model variants:
| Version | Range (WLTP) | Charging |
|---|---|---|
| ForTwo EQ (standard) | 58 miles | 4.6kW AC only |
| ForTwo EQ (22kW option) | 58 miles | 22kW AC |
| ForTwo Cabrio EQ | 84 miles | Various |
| ForFour EQ (4-seat) | 81 miles | Various |
Key changes:
| Year | Changes |
|---|---|
| 2017 | UK launch |
| 2020 | Range improvements |
| 2023 | Production discontinued |
The optional 22kW charger is worth seeking — it transforms charging speed.
Performance & Drive
In town
Outstanding. This is the Smart EQ's entire purpose. The tiny dimensions, exceptional turning circle, and instant torque make urban driving effortless.
You can park anywhere. Gaps that would be impossible in normal cars become easy.
On the motorway
Not recommended. The Smart EQ can reach motorway speeds, but range depletes rapidly and the experience is noisy and unsettled. It's a city car — use it as one.
On a twisty road
More fun than you'd expect. The Smart EQ is light and nimble with direct steering. The firm ride transmits road imperfections, but it's surprisingly entertaining at legal speeds.
Space & Practicality
Seats
Two seats only. They're adequate for urban journeys — not designed for long-distance comfort.
Boot space
At 260 litres, the boot is reasonable for the size. Shopping trips are manageable.
| Configuration | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Boot | 260 litres |
No rear seats, no expansion.
The ForFour
The 4-seat ForFour offers more practicality but remains small. Consider if you need occasional rear passengers.
Interior & Tech
Interior quality
Basic but cheerful. The Smart EQ's interior is functional rather than premium. Coloured accents add character.
Infotainment
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Touchscreen | Standard |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard |
| Navigation | Standard |
| Smart control app | Standard |
The system is basic but adequate.
Range & Charging
Real-world range
| Conditions | WLTP | Real-world |
|---|---|---|
| City driving | 58-84 miles | 50-70 miles |
| Mixed | 58-84 miles | 40-60 miles |
| Winter | 58-84 miles | 35-50 miles |
Daily charging is essential.
Charging
| Method | Time |
|---|---|
| 4.6kW AC (standard) | ~4 hours |
| 22kW AC (option) | ~1 hour |
| DC (22kW) | ~40 mins |
The 22kW option is worth having.
Reliability & Common Problems
Overall reliability
Good. The Smart EQ is simple and generally reliable.
Common issues
| Issue | Severity |
|---|---|
| 12V battery | Medium |
| Charging port | Low |
| No major concerns | — |
Warranty
| Coverage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Vehicle | 2 years |
| Battery | 8 years / 62,500 miles |
What to Look For When Buying
Before viewing
- Check charging spec — 22kW option crucial
- Verify battery health — Small battery, degradation matters
- Realistic about range — 50-60 miles real-world
During inspection
| Check | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Charging speed | Verify 22kW if claimed |
| Battery health | Range estimate accuracy |
| Body damage | City cars get bumped |
| Tyres | Small tyres wear quickly |
Used Price Guide
Current market prices (2026)
| Year | Version | Mileage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | ForTwo EQ | 30-50,000 | £6,000 - £9,000 |
| 2019 | ForTwo EQ (22kW) | 25-45,000 | £7,000 - £10,000 |
| 2020 | ForTwo EQ | 20-40,000 | £8,000 - £11,000 |
| 2021 | ForTwo EQ | 15-35,000 | £9,000 - £12,000 |
| 2022 | ForTwo EQ | 10-25,000 | £10,000 - £14,000 |
Best value
Very affordable used. Seek out the 22kW charging version.
The Verdict
The bottom line
The Smart EQ ForTwo (2017-2023) is the ultimate urban EV. If you live in a city, park on the street, and rarely travel more than 30 miles, it's perfect.
For anything else, the range is too limiting. It's a tool for a specific job — city motoring. At that job, nothing is better.
| Rating | Score |
|---|---|
| Value for money | 7/10 |
| Real-world range | 2/10 |
| Charging convenience | 5/10 (standard) / 7/10 (22kW) |
| Reliability | 7/10 |
| Practicality | 3/10 |
| Overall | 5/10 |
