Skip to main content

People looking for the best small cars to buy have several options. However, stateside drivers can no longer access vehicles from the Smart Automobile company. This has been the case for several years now, and many wonder if the company plans to bring the once-popular microcars back to the US market. This is especially the case as all-electric cars are more popular than ever. Of course, the Smart Fortwo is the company’s most recognizable vehicle.

The Smart Automobile company makes some of the best small cars, but are they returning to the US?

Finding the best small cars to buy can be difficult. Some are unreliable, and others don’t offer the stellar fuel economy buyers expect. However, starting in 2008, North American buyers had access to vehicles from the Smart Automobile company. While some found these microcars goofy and unsafe, others saw real value and bought them in small droves. 

As is the case with many of the best small cars, the North American market fell out of love with the Smart Automobile company. In fact, sales dwindled so much that the company decided to stop offering its vehicles after 2019. Of course, people in several other countries can still buy the cars. So, are Smart cars returning to the US? The answer is no; there aren’t any official plans for the company to expand sales into North America. 

Where are Smart vehicles sold today?

Given that many felt Smart cars were among the best small options to buy, it’s not uncommon to see older models on the road in the US. In fact, some seek out Smart vehicles when looking for used rides. Regarding where the company sells its cars today, it primarily focuses on Europe, Asia, South America, and Australia. However, its global presence has been steadily expanding. 

Still, there is a case for why Smart could succeed in the US market today. For one, it has a smaller and less convoluted lineup than its competitors. In fact, it currently only sells two models, the Smart #1 and the Smart #3. The #1 is a premium SUV, and the #3 is a premium sports utility couple. The company could also be successful because of the growing demand for all-electric cars. No, EVs won’t overtake gas-powered options, but their popularity has drastically changed since 2019. 

Naturally, there was apprehension toward Smart cars when they were sold in the US, and there would still be if they returned to the market. Like with many of the best small cars, there are safety concerns. This is especially the case with the Smart Fortwo. However, the vehicles Smart offers today are larger than those of the past, erasing some safety concerns. 

Still, while there are currently no public plans to sell Smart cars in the US, it’s not out of the realm of possibility, as many people are in the market for the best small cars.