2011 smart fortwo: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2011 smart fortwo received a light interior and safety refresh rather than a full redesign. The main updates were a reshaped dashboard and instrument cluster, along with newly standard knee airbags for the driver and passenger.
About the 2011 smart fortwo
2nd generation (W451, 2008-2015 in the US), light interior/equipment refresh year.
smart positioned the fortwo as a city-first car built around tiny size, easy parking, and surprising room for two adults. Its core appeal was not long-distance comfort or speed, but the ability to slip through crowded streets, fit into very small parking spaces, and still provide useful cargo flexibility. The main differentiators were its 8.8-foot footprint, upright seating, rear-engine/rear-drive layout, and the visible Tridion safety cell that gave the little car a strong safety identity.
The Pure remained the simple, city-focused version, with a 70-hp three-cylinder engine, manual windows, and a fold-flat passenger seat for carrying longer items. The better-equipped Passion added alloy wheels, power windows, automatic climate control, heated power mirrors, and an AUX/USB radio; it was sold as both a coupe and an open-top cabriolet.
What changed, by category
2011 smart fortwo specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3-Cyl, 1.0 Liter | 3-Cyl, 1.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive & smartshift | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive & smartshift |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 33 mpg | 33 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 41 mpg | 41 mpg |
| Horsepower | 70 hp | 70 hp |
| Torque | 68 lb-ft | 68 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 7.8 cu-ft | 7.8 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Heated Mirrors | ||
| LED Daytime Running Lights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Power Mirrors | ||
| Power Retractable Soft Top | ||
| AM/FM Radio | ||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| SD Card Slot | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Power Windows | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2011 smart fortwo fully redesigned?
No. The 2011 fortwo was a light refresh within the existing second generation, focused mainly on the cabin, safety equipment, wheels, colors, and audio choices.
What safety feature was added to the 2011 smart fortwo?
Driver and passenger knee airbags were added across the 2011 fortwo lineup. Its existing stability control, anti-lock brakes, and hill-start assist carried over.
Did the 2011 smart fortwo get a new engine or transmission?
No. The 2011 fortwo retained its 70-hp 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine and five-speed automated manual transmission.
What changed inside the 2011 smart fortwo?
The 2011 fortwo gained a reshaped dashboard, a redesigned instrument cluster, updated materials, a locking glove compartment, and additional small-item storage.
What changed on the 2011 smart fortwo Passion?
The 2011 Passion gained body-color lower exterior panels and new 12-spoke alloy wheels, along with the lineup-wide dashboard, instrument-cluster, and knee-airbag updates.