As a relatively new Smart Owner (3,500 Miles in approx 4 Months) - I feel I must rise to the defense of my little commuter car.

First off - the car is exaclty what it is advertised to be - a basic fun little runabout. Is it fast - no (It will handle quite well on the freeway at 70 miles an hour)

Secondly - MIleage - as a cost of the car relative to fuel consumption it has been excellent. I average between 37 and 40 mpg around town. I drive an 09 Passion Coupe and spent less than $20,000

Thirdly - Space - My intentions were for a reasonably priced second car - not a moving van. I suspect that those of you with large SUV's fill those to capacity every time you leave your home dock (I mean driveway)

Safety - Between the all the Safety System - I feel more than safe - especially when I also have probably the best safety feature in use as well - The Gray Matter in my head

The Transmission - I agree in zipping in and out traffic the "auto mode" is not comfortable., I use the auto mode in basic stop and go traffic. The key in manual mode to maximize ride smoothness is to listen to and feel the car and watch the tach. I suspect that the folks who never really learned to drive a stick have the most difficulty with this.

Bottom Line - the car is what it is a:

A reasonable priced - fun little safe second car. Yes I get a lot of comments - even some stupid ones like where's the wind-up key / how many clowns can you fit / Is it Gas or Electric (While I am pumping gas at the pump) / YOU FREAKIN HIPPY and so it goes

I guess I could drive a little Yaris / Versa / Aveo etc - spend more money - not be as safe but make you feel better transmission wise?

Guys:

Thanks again for not understanding the differences between Canadians and Americans. Last I heard, Thanksgiving was back in October.

Please keep in mind that, last I heard Best Buy was a Public company, entitled to manage their own business affairs - not run by the gaming community. They can choose what, when and how they sell their retail offerings.

Get a life!!!! perhaps concerning yourselves with more pressing matters.