With the Canadian dollar currently hovering above par, many people have wondered about bringing the new 2008 gasoline powered smart car from the USA into Canada. With the price of a passion coupe in the USA coming in at $13,590, most people assume we are getting a raw deal at home.

But is that true?

The first major item to consider is that the warranty in the US is only 2 years/24,000 miles, whereas in Canada it is 4 years/80,000 kms. That alone represents an estimated value of $1,500

Then consider that the US cars are not as well equipped with standard options. Things like electric power assist steering, premium sound system, and heated seats come standard in Canada, but are options in the US.

Let’s compare apples to apples, and see how it works out: (more…)