“It is fun to drive and requires very little maintenance. Because it is electric the performance is exceptional.”
2017 smart fortwo: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2017 smart fortwo is the arrival of the gas-powered Cabrio in Passion, Prime, and Proxy trims. Otherwise, this is a light-update year with no major platform, engine, or safety overhaul.
About the 2017 smart fortwo
3rd generation fortwo (U.S. 2016-2019 overall, gas sold through 2017); second year of this generation and first U.S. model year with the gas Cabrio.
The 2017 smart fortwo is a two-seat city car built around one idea: make urban driving and parking as easy as possible. smart sells it on its tiny footprint, exceptionally tight turning circle, surprising room for two adults, and distinctive safety-cell design. Unlike larger subcompacts, the fortwo is not a do-everything family car; it is a specialized runabout for crowded streets, short trips, and buyers who value maneuverability and personality over space.
The 2017 fortwo ranges from the no-frills Pure coupe to the better-equipped Passion, leather-trimmed Prime, and sport-flavored Proxy. Prime adds heated seats and ambient lighting, while Proxy stands out with sport suspension, 16-inch wheels, and a JBL audio system. The Cabrio brings an open-top body style to Passion, Prime, and Proxy.
What changed, by category
Structural
A Cabrio body style joined the U.S. gas fortwo lineup in Passion, Prime, and Proxy trims. The Pure remained coupe-only.
Tech
Fog-light operation was updated on trims equipped with fog lights.
2017 smart fortwo specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3-Cyl, Turbo, 1.0 Liter | 3-Cyl, Turbo, 1.0 Liter / 3-Cyl, 1.0 Liter | 3-Cyl, Turbo, 1.0 Liter / 3-Cyl, 1.0 Liter | 3-Cyl, Turbo, 1.0 Liter / 3-Cyl, 1.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd Twinamic | Auto, 6-Spd Twinamic | Auto, 6-Spd Twinamic | Auto, 6-Spd Twinamic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 34 mpg | 34 mpg | 34 mpg | 34 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 39 mpg | 39 mpg | 39 mpg | 39 mpg |
| Horsepower | 89 hp | 89 hp | 89 hp | 89 hp |
| Torque | 100 lb-ft | 100 lb-ft | 100 lb-ft | 100 lb-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| LED Daytime Running Lights | ||||
| LED Tail Lights | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Power Mirrors | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2017 smart fortwo?
The biggest change is the addition of the gas-powered Cabrio body style in Passion, Prime, and Proxy trims. The coupe otherwise carries over with only minor equipment updates.
Which 2017 smart fortwo trims came as a Cabrio?
The 2017 smart fortwo Cabrio was offered in Passion, Prime, and Proxy trims. The entry-level Pure remained a coupe.
Did the 2017 smart fortwo get a new engine or platform?
No, the 2017 gas-powered fortwo did not receive a major engine or platform change. It remained in the generation introduced for the 2016 model year.
Did the 2017 smart fortwo receive major safety changes?
No, the 2017 smart fortwo did not receive a major safety-suite overhaul. Its updates centered on the Cabrio body style and small equipment revisions.
Is the 2017 smart fortwo substantially different from the 2016 model?
No, the 2017 fortwo is not substantially different from the 2016 model unless you want the Cabrio. The coupe is largely a carryover from the prior year, with only minor equipment tweaks.
2017 smart fortwo Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2017 smart fortwo.
4.3
2017 smart fortwo
(94 reviews)
“If you live in a town and work is fairly close and parking is an issue, you need this car. This electric plugs right into a household outlet and charging stations are available. It is fun to drive has amazing pickup with no gears. Comfortable ride and plenty of room for your groceries. Love it!!”
“Renewable energy. Zero emissions. Save on gas. No regrets. It's actually fun to drive a pure electric car and you'll save a ton on fueling costs.”