2009 smart fortwo: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The big change for the 2009 smart fortwo is the addition of the BRABUS trim, a sportier version with lower suspension and unique exterior and cabin upgrades. Otherwise, this is a light-update year with the same engine and transmission.
About the 2009 smart fortwo
2nd generation fortwo (W451), second U.S. model year; early in the generation, with BRABUS added but no redesign.
smart pitched the fortwo as a true city car for dense traffic and hard-to-find parking, not just a smaller version of a regular subcompact. Its main draw was an ultra-short two-seat layout that could squeeze into tiny spaces, turn tightly, and use little fuel while still giving two adults surprising headroom and usable cargo space. The safety cell, upright seating position, and distinctive design helped it stand apart from larger small cars that were easier on the highway but less specialized for urban driving.
The 2009 fortwo ranges from the basic Pure to the better-equipped Passion, which adds comforts such as automatic climate control, power windows, and a leather steering wheel with paddle shifters. BRABUS sits at the top with heated leather seats, power steering, larger rear wheels, a sport exhaust, and unique bodywork.
What changed, by category
2009 smart fortwo specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3-Cyl, 1.0 Liter | 3-Cyl, 1.0 Liter | 3-Cyl, 1.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive & Manual Mode | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive & Manual Mode | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive & Manual Mode |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 33 mpg | 33 mpg | 33 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 41 mpg | 41 mpg | 41 mpg |
| Horsepower | 70 hp | 70 hp | 70 hp |
| Torque | 68 lb-ft | 68 lb-ft | 68 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 12 cu-ft | 12 cu-ft | 12 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Hill Start Assist | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Power Mirrors | |||
| AM/FM Radio | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Subwoofer | |||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Power Steering | |||
| Power Windows | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 smart fortwo?
The biggest change is the addition of the BRABUS trim. It brings lower sport suspension, unique bodywork and wheels, a sport exhaust, power steering, and a more upscale cabin.
Is the 2009 smart fortwo BRABUS more powerful than the other trims?
No. The 2009 BRABUS uses the same 70-horsepower 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine and five-speed automated manual transmission as the other fortwo trims. Its changes focus on handling, appearance, exhaust sound, and cabin equipment.
How is the 2009 BRABUS different from the Passion?
The 2009 BRABUS is the sportier and more upscale version. It adds lowered suspension, power steering, heated leather seats, BRABUS bodywork, staggered wheels, and a dual-center-outlet sport exhaust.
Is the 2009 smart fortwo worth considering over the 2008 model?
The 2009 model is most compelling if you want the BRABUS trim. Pure and Passion changed very little, and the core 70-horsepower engine and five-speed automated manual transmission carried over.