Part of the reason the Smart Fortwo is larger than the original model is to provide larger impact-absorbing crumple zones while electronic stability control (ESP) is standard across the range. Driver and passenger airbags are standard (the passenger airbag can be deactivated if a child seat is being used), while side airbags (head and thorax) are optional.

This Fortwo has a larger boot than the previous model and with 220 litres there’s reasonable room for a small car designed for urban drivers – for instance it’s more generous than the luggage space in a MINI and almost on par with a Ford Ka. If you load it up to the roof, you can squeeze in 340 litres of kit, although the short boot length means you won’t be able to carry any large objects.

The twin section tailgate folds down like a pick-up and is a handy area to put things on. The tailgate itself also provides useful extra storage for odds and ends. For more load carrying ability, the backrest of the passenger seat can be folded down flat.