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Motability

Suzuki Ignis Hatchback 1.3 GL

For:
The Ignis range has punchy engines and is solidly constructed. It's a practical car and has decent safety kit.

Against:
It is off the pace to newer rivals and its running costs are rather high.



Performance

All Fortwos use a 999cc petrol engine, but buyers can choose from outputs of 61bhp, 71bhp and 84bhp. We've driven the stronger two, and they both deliver lively performance in town. However, the 84bhp unit's extra oomph is handy on the motorway.

Ride & handling

Power steering is only an option, but even the standard set-up is easy to twirl as long as you're not stationary. Less impressive is the ride. This tall, short-wheelbase car needs stiff suspension to stop it tottering through bends, so imperfections in the road surface are transmitted through to occupants.

Refinement

The biggest disturbance comes from the three-cylinder engine, which sits just behind the seats. It emits a distinctive thrum whenever you touch the accelerator and, while the sound is far from unpleasant, it becomes tiring on long journeys. A clutchless semi-automatic gearbox is standard, and if you lift off the accelerator slightly, changes are quite smooth.

Buying & owning

Tiny running costs are guaranteed whichever model you choose. The Fortwo will be cheap to insure, while even the most powerful engine averages 44.1mpg in town and a whopping 57.7mpg on average. On the downside, Smart salesmen are reluctant to offer discounts, so don't expect much off.

Quality & reliability

Aside from some slightly flimsy heater controls, the interior has a solid, durable feel. Even the base Pure model looks quite classy inside, but the pricier Pulse and Passion specs are a cut above thanks to fabric trim on the dash and doors. Smart's reliability record needs to improve, though.

Safety & security

All models have a stability control system that helps out in slippery bends and reduces the chance of a rollover accident. Driver and passenger airbags are also standard, but it's disappointing that side airbags are only optional. An engine immobiliser means thieves will struggle to drive it away, but the absence of deadlocks lets down security.

Behind the wheel

The distinctive interior is well laid out and features big, user-friendly buttons and dials. However, the driving position won't suit everyone because there's no seat-height adjustment and the steering wheel is fixed. If you want a brightly trimmed interior you'll have to go for the top trim Passion model.

Space & practicality

Practicality is limited by the fact it only has two seats, but there's enough room for a pair of broad six-footers to get comfortable. Wide-opening doors mean it's easy to get in and out and, while the boot isn't massive, its 220-litre capacity compares well with other city cars'.

Equipment

In entry-level Pure trim, the Fortwo is poorly equipped, getting a CD player but little else. The sporty Pulse adds a rev counter, electric windows, a panoramic glass roof, alloy wheels and steering wheel-mounted gearshift paddles, while more luxurious Passion cars forgo the paddles in favour of a fully automatic gear programme and air-conditioning.

Running Costs

Town mpg

34

Out of Town mpg

51.4

Average mpg

43.5

Tank Capacity (gallons)

9

CO2 Rating (g/km)

154

Insurance Group

5

Typical Insurance Quote

£348

% Value Retained (3yrs/36,000mls)

32

Typical Contract Hire Rate (pcm)

£0

Pence Per Mile

30.1

Servicing Cost over 3yrs

£875

Servicing Intervals

9,000

Manufacturers Warranty

3yr/60k + 6yr Perforation + 3yr Breakdown

Performance & Measurements

Body type

Hatchback

Number of Doors

5

Number of Seats

5

Engine (cc/type)

1328/4

Fuel Type

Unleaded

Max Power (bhp/rpm)

83/5500

Engine Position

F

Driven Wheels

Front

Length (mm)

3770

Width (mm)

N/A

Height (mm)

1605

Boot Space (min ltr)

236

Boot Space (max ltr)

1002

Turning Circle (m)

10

Towing Weight(kg)

N/A

Kerb Weight (kg)

N/A

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