Just How Smart is the Smart Car?

Are you Smart?

Ok. Well, do you drive Smart?

The Toyota Prius has long been the vehicle of choice for eco-friendly drivers everywhere, but since the start of this year the "ultra urban" Smart Car has been popping up all over the nation. Maybe it's the parking appeal that's got the public all over this new trend. Or maybe it's the (not so) copious colors that are available. Maybe. But a lot of the allure has got to have something to do with the much-wanted fuel economy and eco-characteristics.

Check out some of the stats:

• It's fast - The Smart Car reaches speeds up to 90 mph.
• It's fuel efficient - The Smart Car gets an estimated 33/41 (city/highway) mpg according to EPA 2008 standards and has an estimated annual fuel cost of just $1750.
• It's eco-friendly - From production to everyday use the Smart Car is all about energy conservation. What's more, the innovative design helps manufacturers kick the waste habit before it's even an issue.

Even with all the eco-benefits and long-term fuel savings you'll see with it, there are a few drawbacks to buying a Smart Car.

For one, no one can tell you (from experience) just how long a smart car will last. For another, even though the safety ratings are great, you can only fit two people in a vehicle. And finally, the cost (at anywhere from $11 to $17 thousand) is actually comparable to less expensive, full sized vehicles.

So how about it? Would you buy a smart car or are you smarter than that? Sound off in our comments section below!

^{Photograph © Daimler Global Media}