ForStars isn't an entirely new design direction from Smart as the design cues you see here are actually resemblances of previous concept studies. Notably, ForVision and For-Us. And, I've got to admit, they look enticing. I do not fancy Smart a whole lot. In fact, I detest them. Models like ForFour, ForTwo may be good as an engineering package but it looked out of place, quirky and was driven by anorexic tweeded females.
The ForStars concept may not fill in all the characteristics missed by previous models but to my eyes, the new design has a more acceptable flair. It isn't only striking but it is easy on the eyes. The Sports Utility Coupe, as classified by Smart may have a new design direction but it all seems familiar and unmistakably Smart. The attractive light clusters accompanied by eyebrows, rakish roof that connects to a slanting rear window, matte grey trims and beefy tires instill a menacing look to the SUC concept, something the previous models lacked. Surprises are to be expected and the bonnet houses a projector that projects videos onto a wall using an iPhone and transforms the SUC into a mini cinema. Great for impressing your girlfriend but this is a concept gimmick and prolly wouldn't see the light of day. Shame.
Inside, funky concept looks are pronounced everywhere. From a white plastic pod like dash to a U-shaped steering wheel with metallic orange bits create an organic-like futuristic atmosphere. Even the gearknob looks silly. In a good way.
It isn't surprising to find an electric motor chosen to power the vehicle. Borrowing the motor from Brabus Electric Drive ForTwo, it is a magneto-electric motor positioned at the rear and powered by a 17.6kWh lithium-ion battery. The output has been increased to 80 bhp and 135 Nm of torque which makes a top speed in excess of 130 km/h, enough for a nippy ride around the urban jungle.
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