In auto mode, all you have to do is to slightly release the throttle near shift points. However, given how short the fifth gear is, I preferred to use the paddle shifters. In fact, on slippery roads, I quickly shifted from first to second to third in order to take off with more speed and leave other drivers behind. That good old trick also helps reduce wheel spin during winter.

The 2008 smart coupé passion is a satisfying car despite a few shortcomings.

Take out the champagne
The new smart is no ordinary small car: it runs on premium -- not regular -- gasoline. That's the price you have to pay to enjoy this new performance. Despite atrocious conditions and my heavy right foot, I still wound up with an average fuel economy of 8.8 L/100 km. Fear not: you'll achieve better results, especially in warmer conditions -- probably under 6 L/100 km.

The smart coupé passion is a satisfying car despite a few shortcomings. It's also an ideal commuter. With the federal government's ecoAUTO rebate for highly fuel-efficient vehicles, the 2008 smart proves an interesting choice for a second car; you can use it to go to work and get back home, day in, day out.


Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux