UK bound: Smart ForTwo CD

Mercedes has confirmed that Britain will get the new diesel-engined version of the Smart ForTwo in early 2009. Emitting just 88g/km of CO2, the Smart ForTwo CDI is a congestion charge-dodger of note; Mercedes claims it has the lowest CO2 emissions of any production vehicle worldwide.The Smart city car is powered by a 799cc, three-cylinder, common-rail diesel engine that develops a modest 45bhp and is mated to a five-speed, semi-automatic transmission. The car will be sold in both coupe and cabriolet bodystyles. In addition to its lowly emissions, Merc is also claiming astounding fuel economy of 85mpg on the combined cycle; that could mean a range of 600 miles between fill-ups of its 33-litre tank.Dermot Kelly, Mercedes-Benz’s UK MD, said, “The ForTwo CDI gives customers the whole range of Smart benefits when driving in and around the city, with the added bonus of low-cost, long-distance motoring. Our retailers are reporting heightened interest in the iconic two-seater; registrations are buoyant and we think the addition of the Smart CDI to the range early next year will give added momentum.”Right-hand-drive versions will go into production in February 2009, but as yet there no details about pricing or specification before the planned UK launch in March 2009. Keep checking Autocar.co.uk for more updates.

Ian Tonkin