Finding a Smart Fortwo in Pakistan is like spotting a unicorn on the streets—it’s small, unconventional, and guaranteed to grab attention. This tiny two-seater, originally a brainchild of Mercedes-Benz and Swatch, was designed for crowded urban centers, and while it never gained mass popularity here, it has carved out a niche among enthusiasts looking for something different.
From Quirky Concept to Urban Icon
The Smart Fortwo started life as a bold experiment: could a microcar be both practical and fashionable? Mercedes eventually took the project under its wing, refining the design and engineering. Today, the brand sits under Geely’s umbrella and is fully committed to an all-electric lineup in global markets.
The model in question is a second-generation facelift, which solved many of the durability complaints from the first generation. With sturdier panels and a more solid feel, it’s better suited to daily use than its fragile predecessor.
Small in Size, Big in Character
At just two seats with a modest luggage compartment, the Fortwo is unapologetically compact. But that’s part of its charm. Its upright stance, distinctive three-lug wheels, and playful proportions ensure it doesn’t fade into the background.
Inside, it surprises with a level of refinement most wouldn’t expect from a car this size. Think semi-bucket seats, contrast red stitching across the dashboard, heated seats, and even a panoramic roof. The cabin feels more “boutique Mercedes” than budget runabout.
Driving Experience: Built for the City
The car is powered by a 1.0-liter three-cylinder petrol engine producing about 70 horsepower and 90 Nm of torque, paired with a rear-wheel-drive automated manual gearbox. On paper, that doesn’t scream performance, but behind the wheel it’s a different story.
Owners describe it as nimble and playful—perfect for weaving through traffic, parking in impossibly tight spots, and still having enough grunt to overtake when needed. It’s not meant for highway thrills, but within its intended environment, it delivers more fun than many larger cars.
Running Costs and Reliability
- Routine service (oil + filters): ~PKR 10–12k
- Periodic tune-ups: ~PKR 10k
- Parts: Readily available at some workshops, though rarer components may need importing from Dubai.
The biggest factor is buying a unit that has been well looked after. Poorly maintained examples, often tampered with by inexperienced mechanics, can become headaches. A clean car with a proper service history, however, tends to run reliably for years.
Price and Market Position
This reviewed Fortwo is currently listed at PKR 28.5 lakhs, showing just 38,500 km on the odometer with full dealership service records. Given how few exist in the country, it’s positioned as more of a collector’s piece than a mainstream option.
In terms of alternatives, you’d be looking at cars like the Toyota iQ, Daihatsu Copen, or modern kei cars. But none of those bring the same European flair and Mercedes engineering credentials.
The Takeaway
The Mercedes Smart Fortwo is not a car for the masses—it’s a car for those who want something different. It’s compact to the extreme, not very practical, and far from cheap in Pakistan. Yet, for someone who values exclusivity, efficiency, and standout design, it offers a driving experience like nothing else on the road.
In short, it’s a city car that doubles as a conversation starter—and in Pakistan’s sea of sedans and hatchbacks, that’s worth something.
