Priced from 1.59 Million Yen; Turbo Model Also Arrives

On May 24th, Mercedes-Benz Japan unveiled the new Smart, reborn with a design that exudes confidence, at the Mercedes-Benz Connection in Roppongi. Sales commenced the same day. The price is particularly striking. On this day, staff wore T-shirts emblazoned with "159" on the back, signifying that the base grade, the "Smart Fortwo Coupe mhd," would be available from 1.59 million yen, a reduction of 250,000 yen from the previous model.

Smart has been "enthusiastically supported by those with a clear lifestyle and way of thinking." However, Mercedes-Benz Japan defines Smart as an indispensable personal mobility solution worldwide, fulfilling environmental responsibilities while allowing individuals to enjoy their lives. This, they explained, is why the car has been strategically priced to be accessible to a wider audience in Japan.


The lineup includes this base grade, along with the "Smart Fortwo Coupe mhd Plus" at 1.68 million yen, equipped with 15-inch 9-spoke alloy wheels, an armrest, and electrically adjustable heated door mirrors. The "Smart Fortwo Coupe mhd Passion," featuring silver exterior accents and a choice of three interior colors—black, beige, or red—is priced at 1.84 million yen. All models weigh 840 kg. The 999cc three-cylinder DOHC engine mounted at the rear produces a maximum output of 52 kW (71 ps) at 5,800 rpm and a maximum torque of 92 Nm at 2,800 rpm. The transmission is a 5-speed automatic with manual mode. Fuel efficiency is an impressive 22 km/l, the best among imported cars, and it qualifies for a 100,000 yen eco-car subsidy.

While Smart is primarily known as a city car, its acceleration and agile handling are also highlighted as key selling points. The "Smart Fortwo Coupe Turbo" and "Cabrio Turbo," which feature enhanced driving performance through the addition of a turbocharger, boast a maximum output of 62 kW (84 ps) at 5,250 rpm and a maximum torque of 120 Nm between 2,000-4,750 rpm. They are priced at 1.95 million yen and 2.19 million yen, respectively.



To commemorate the launch of the "Coupe Turbo," a special edition model, the "Edition sharp red," painted in red and black, will be available in a limited run of 150 units nationwide. The interior has been enhanced with red stitching accents on the dashboard, nappa leather seats (with seat heaters), and a leather steering wheel and shift knob, elevating the sense of quality. The price is 2.12 million yen.

Reservations Open for Smart Electric Drive

Reservations have also opened for the "Smart Electric Drive." Daimler believes that optimal environmental and driving performance varies depending on travel distance and driving conditions, positioning electric vehicles as ideal for short-distance travel. Smart has been conducting demonstration tests of its electric vehicles since 2007, and reflecting the results, this "Smart Electric Drive" offers sufficient range and acceleration for city driving. Specifically, the lithium-ion battery provides a driving range of 140 km on an 8-hour charge, while achieving 0-100 km/h acceleration in under 13 seconds. The output is 55 kW, with a maximum torque of 130 Nm. It is priced at 2.95 million yen, undercutting the 3 million yen mark.