Get Smart: Come 2005, European cities won't be the only ones with the cute little Smart runabouts on their streets. DaimlerChrysler is bringing the car here, and in creative new forms. Most notable will be this economical crossover sport/utility wagon, boasting funky style, spirited attitude, and practicality.
A new crossover/sport/utility will lead here, offered with a 100-horsepower gasoline four-cylinder and possibly a turbodiesel designed for the next-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class. The robust-looking Smart crossover will have the Tridion safety-cage design that was unveiled in a concept car at the 2002 Geneva show. Styling features the Smart's trademark two-color scheme. An all-wheel-drive system, shared with Mitsubishi's Rallye Colt subcompact, necessitates a higher ground clearance and a wider track than the Smart four-door sedan.
It won't sit in a one-car Smart showroom: The crossover may share space with Smart & Family, a four-door city car codeveloped with Mitsubishi, the Smart & Passion, an American-market version of the familiar European city cabrio, Smart & Pulse, the fixed-top version of the Passion, and the Smart Roadster, a low-slung two-seater. The crossover will be built in Juiz de Fora, Brazil, alongside Mercedes A- and C-Classes.
The Smart City Car's familiar nose is redesigned for the crossover to match the look of the upcoming Smart Roadster.