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The adequate power is channeled through a six-speed semi-automatic transmission. This isn't an automatic with a manual override control, but a manual transmission with sequential gears actuated by computer at the driver's command. If you've heard of this kind of setup before, it's probably because at the highest end of the scale, you'll find a certain Kimi Raikkonen using a similar system. Aside from the floor-mounted gearshift lever, you'll also find a pair of paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. Starting on a hill without rolling backwards is one advantage of conventional automatics, and the Smart's transmission mimics this behavior through its Hill Start Assist. The computer keeps the wheels braked for 0.7 seconds after the driver releases the pedal, giving the driver enough time to press on the accelerator without the car rolling backwards or forwards. No need to pull up the handbrake for driving off on steep slopes, and smoking-clutch starts are a thing of the past. Generous room for two should be a given in a Smart, and the roadster keeps the deal intact. Where the city coupe calls for an upright driving position, the roadster positions the occupants closer to the ground. This also allows the roadster to have a total vehicle height of just 1192 mm, about 200 mm shorter than the Mercedes C-sports coupe. This lowers the center of gravity and increases resistance to body roll. Just as important, the driver should imagine, without too much stretching, that his car is emulating a go-kart. Well-bolstered buckets, a thick-rimmed steering wheel and large gauges behind the wheel and on top of the center dash complete the sport This is one sports car that doesn't count tightness of space among its attributes. There's even a bit of luggage room—one at each end of the car. The front compartment is deep enough for a small crate of fizzy drinks, or in this day and age, mineral water, and the rear for several large bags. The hardtop also goes into the rear trunk. The two should be sufficient for a trip to the grocery store or a weekend getaway. A suitcase and some bags can also be stowed under the glazed rear section of the roadster-coupé. There's a set of optional fitted luggage that can fill every nook and cranny. The Smart rides on independent McPherson struts at front and a DeDion axle at the rear. More spring travel at either end produces ride comfort that should be near the top of its class. Because of the low center of gravity, acceleration and braking doesn't tilt the chassis as much, using up little of the spring travel. Another contributing factor is the lack of shake and scuttle that afflicts some open cars. The rigid TRIDION safety cell protects the passenger space, and also allows sharper handling and suspension tuning. The TRIDION uses high-strength and extremely high-strength steel particularly in the A-pillars and roof frame to ensure integrity of the passenger cell in any sort of crash. Other passive safety features include pretensioned, force-limited seat belts and airbags. |
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