smart IS BEST ROADSTER

smart made its presence felt at the recent Auto Express New Car Honours Awards for 2004, by stealing the Best Roadster title for the second year running.

Sweeping aside the competition, the smart roadster was complimented by the Auto Express team of experts as "lightweight, simple and affordable", as well as "a hoot to drive".

David Johns, Editor in Chief at Auto Express, said: "For wind-in-the-hair summer fun the affordable smart roadster cannot be beaten."

Elaborating on the judges' decision, David continued: "This low slung two-seater has taken the roadster market by storm. The chassis is the highlight because there's so much grip and the lack of weight means it's very responsive. Even though the car is tiny, you don't feel unsafe - build quality is unparalleled at this price."

Jeremy Simpson, Head of smart in the UK and Ireland, said: "We're delighted that the smart roadster has won this prestigious title for the second year in succession. Hot on the heels of the Top Gear Magazine Award for Most Fun Car, it's set to be a great year for the roadster."

The smart fortwo was also commended in the City Car category, as being a stunning city car.

Since the UK launch of the smart roadster in September 2003, more than 2,500 roadsters have been sold. The BRABUS version went on sale in May and has proved to be a popular choice for customers.

Jeremy added: "The roadster BRABUS seems to have struck a chord with our customers. This year's allocation of cars has already been sold in just two months and we have asked the factory to build us additional top of the range models."

The smart roadster range is available from smart retailers, starting from

I test drove a Brabus yesterday

Great fun to drive but