auto
New for '09: Smart fortwo
Smart fortwo
While these tiny, cute European minicars arrived earlier this year, they're still considered 2009 models and haven't been seen much on the road in most parts of the United States. There are three models, called Pure, Passion and Passion Cabriolet -- a convertible. They are essentially the same car with its 1.0-liter, 71 horsepower, three-cylinder engine and sequential manual transmission. It's rated at 33 mpg city, 41 mpg highway. Prices start at about $12,000 and run to more than $16,000. Reviews of the Smart have been mixed; with most agreeing the two-seater is best used in congested urban situations.