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2009 Brabus Smart fortwo Ultimate R Review

September 2009
Filed under: SMART Car News | SMART Headlines

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Its three-cylinder turbocharged engine produces 112 hp (110 bhp) / 82.4 kW and contributes to the ultimate city sports cars agility as does its sports suspension with high-performance tires up to size 235/30 R 18 on the rear axle. The racing-look exterior of the car features a special gun metal paint job and carbon fiber components. Sport seats upholstered with Alcantara provide firm support for driver and passenger.

The ULTIMATE R delivers the kind of performance that its racing looks promise: The tuned smart engine produces 112 hp (110 bhp) / 82.4 kW at 5,750 rpm. Just as impressive is the peak torque of 150 Nm (111 lb-ft), available on a plateau between 3,300 and 3,900 rpm. Shift times of the transmission in the BRABUS special model are shorter than in the production car. Gears can be shifted either automatically or with Formula One-type shift paddles on the ergonomically shaped BRABUS sport steering wheel with a diameter of just 32 centimeters (12.6 inches).

The performance figures of the little speedster promise tons of driving fun: The ULTIMATE R zooms from rest to 60 km/h (37 mph) in just 3.9 seconds and reaches 100 km/h (62 mph) after just 9.5 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 170 km/h (106 mph).

The stainless-steel BRABUS sport exhaust system with dual cast aluminum tailpipe optimizes power yield and gives the two-seater a very sporty exhaust note.

The appearance of the two-seater can best be described as unadulterated racing looks. Clear-coated carbon-fiber is a striking complement to the special metallic paint. The high-tech material can be found on the lower part of the B-pillar, the front spoiler with its additional flaps, on the rocker panels and the rear diffuser.

Wider fenders offer space for a tire/wheel combination that must be considered generously dimensioned for a smart. Black-painted BRABUS Monoblock VI double-spoke wheels are mounted on the front axle in size 7Jx18 with size 205/35 R 18 high-performance tires. On the rear axle size 8.5Jx18 wheels with size 235/30 R 18 tires provide maximum traction.

The height-adjustable BRABUS coil-over sport suspension lowers the ride height of the ULTIMATE R by some 30 millimeters (1.2 inches). Firmer gas-pressure shocks further contribute to the cars agile handling with great safety reserves.

The interior of the high-end subcompact car also exudes racing ambiance. Strongly contoured sport seats upholstered with nonslip grey Alcantara provide plenty lateral support during fast cornering. The beautiful material is delicately finished by the BRABUS upholsterers with shining red seams and can also be found on the dashboard and both doors.

Carbon fiber applications add further sporty highlights. The high-tech material is used on the speedometer, tach, clock, instrument bezels, turn-signal stalk and door handles. Stainless-steel pedals with rubber pads and aluminum shifter and emergency brake lever are the perfect complements.

A climate control system, radio and navigation system are also part of the two-seaters standard equipment. The ULTIMATE R is available as a coupe and as a convertible.

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