Smart EQ ForTwo Cabrio (2014-2019) reliability & safety
The Smart EQ ForTwo is a tough city car, with decent reliability and an impressive crash-test score
| Euro NCAP rating | Adult protection rating | Child safety rating | Safety assist rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 stars | 82% | 80% | 56% |
Despite the EQ being a relatively new model, Smart has been building cars for for 20 years. Furthermore, the fact it sits under the Mercedes umbrella means the sleek city car also employs the expertise of hundreds of talented engineers. Further tie-ups with the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance should boost the electric car’s reliability.
Build quality is adequate given the car’s purpose, but any concerns should be alleviated by the Smart’s three-year/unlimited-mileage warranty.
Smart EQ ForTwo reliability & problems
Despite it not featuring in our sister title Auto Express' 2018 Driver Power owner survey, we expect the EQ ForTwo Cabrio to be reliable – not least because electric cars have fewer moving parts. It shares a number of components with a variety of Renault and Mercedes models, which should further help its cause.
Furthermore, Smart EQ models will spend most of their time driving around town, putting less stress on major parts than petrol and diesel alternatives.
Safety
Euro NCAP’s crash safety tests have become harder in recent years, but that shouldn’t detract from what is clearly a tough city car. The Smart ForTwo Coupe scored an impressive four stars when it was tested in 2014 and the electric Cabrio would likely gain a similar rating if it was tested separately.
Looking at the score breakdown, it’s clear the Smart is a safe car. It scored 82% for adult occupant protection and 80% for child occupant protection. It didn’t fare quite as well for pedestrian protection and safety assistance (both 56%), but all cars get the mandatory modern technology such as stability control and anti-lock brakes.
