Sport springs lower the ride height by around 25mm, and in combination with the larger wheels and tyres, the car takes on a more rugged, foursquare stance. The lower centre of gravity and wider tracks result in crisper steering response, lower roll and significantly enhanced cornering ability. The increasing mechanical grip is particularly beneficial at the front axle as the standard car is prone to understeer when pushed hard into tight bends.
The Carlsson aerodynamic styling additions give the Smart Fortwo a significantly more purposeful look all round. The polyurethane front spoiler, which attaches to the standard bumper, is complemented by an electro-polished, stainless-steel grill insert and fog lights with chrome surrounds. At the rear, a new valance, also moulded from OEM quality polyurethane, incorporates a diffuser. Carlsson offer this in combination with a stainless-steel rear silencer with four polished exit pipes for the 84hp turbocharged motor, and as an end-pipe only system for the 61 and 71bhp versions. Only available for petrol-engined Fortwo variants, this exhaust upgrade looks good and delivers a deeper, more sporting note.
Carlsson are renowned for their bespoke interior trim work on Mercedes cars, but while special leathers and fabrics are available on request for individual customers, Carlsson’s Smart Fortwo interior programme at this time consists of an aluminum pedal set and handbrake grip.
