# Smart Fortwo — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Smart Fortwo on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/smart-fortwo

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2019
- **Ideal trim**: Passion
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–45,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £8,645

## Why this model

The Smart Fortwo is a fantastic choice if you spend most of your time in the city. It's incredibly easy to park, super nimble, and surprisingly spacious for two people and a bit of shopping. It's also pretty economical to run, making it a solid choice for urban living.

## What you should pay

Based on current UK market trends (February 2026), a 2019 Smart Fortwo Passion 1.0T with around 30-50k miles typically sells for about £8,645. Prices can vary a bit depending on exact mileage, condition, and optional extras, but this is a good target to aim for.

## Which trim to buy

The 'Passion' trim hits the sweet spot for value. It comes with essentials like automatic climate control and often includes a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is great for city navigation and entertainment. You get enough creature comforts without paying extra for features you might not need in a city car, making it the most sensible and cost-effective choice.

## What to check before you buy

- Jerky automated manual gearbox (though improved by 2019 models)
- Suspension components (wear and tear)
- Minor electrical gremlins
- Potential for rust on older models (less common on 2019)

## Running costs

For a petrol 2019 Smart Fortwo, you're looking at roughly £0.12 per mile for fuel, assuming current petrol prices and 55mpg. Road tax (VED) will be around £180 per year. Insurance is generally quite cheap, falling into lower groups (typically 3-7), so expect to pay £300-£600 annually depending on your personal circumstances.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 71hp
- **Mpg**: 55-60 mpg
- **Reliability Score**: Average
- **Safety Rating**: 4 Stars (Euro NCAP 2014)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Passion | £12,500 | £8,645 | 15-inch alloy wheels; Automatic climate control; Electric windows |
| Prime | £14,000 | £9,500 | Leather upholstery; Heated seats; Rear parking sensors |
| Proxy | £15,000 | £10,000 | 16-inch alloy wheels; Sports suspension; Leather and fabric interior |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £8,645 | 100% |
| 2027 | £7,607 | 88% |
| 2028 | £6,846 | 79% |
| 2029 | £6,161 | 71% |
| 2030 | £5,545 | 64% |

The Smart Fortwo has already taken its biggest depreciation hit by 2026. Buying a 2019 model now means you're getting it at a point where its value loss will be much slower year-on-year. You'll likely retain a good chunk of its value if you sell it in 2-3 years, making it a smart buy for short to medium-term ownership.

Total value lost since new: 36%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Toyota Aygo](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/toyota-aygo.md)
- [Volkswagen Up!](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/volkswagen-up.md)
- [Kia Picanto](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/kia-picanto.md)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.