Strong popularity

Smart enjoys strong popularity in China and in markets accross the globe. [Photo / Provided to China Daily]

The smart engineered by Mercedes-Benz has enjoyed strong popularity among auto fans around the world since its launch in 1998 and has grown into a true lifestyle icon, delivering more than 1.2 million units worldwide.

Since entering the China market only in April 2009, its sales have surpassed 4,000 units in 2010, representing a year-on-year increase of over 119 percent.

Maier also reflected upon his optimism for smart and the China market by sharing that the fast increasing sales of smart in China clearly shows the great potential of the China market, and said that he is confident the new 2011 edition will become a favorite for smart's customers.

At Auto Guangzhou last December, smart introduced six new 2011 models to the Chinese market with three power options, giving customers even more options to customize their smart to fit their own unique lifestyle.

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With its inherited design concept and strong safety standards, the 2011 edition offers two additional turbocharged engine variants - that produce 62 kW and 75 kW - greatly improving the driving experience while not compromising eco-friendliness.

The smart Brabus xClusive Coupe, which made its worldwide debut in the Chinese market, offers an impressive power of 75kW and maximum torque of 147 Nm, giving the model lightening speed and power.

The vehicle accelerates from standstill to 100 kilometer/hour in only 8.9 seconds, delivering extraordinary thrill to driving.

The 2011 edition also offers two additional color options, matt green and light blue, while improvements in the exterior and upholstery detailing also give the vehicle a more dynamic look and feel.

"The smart's agile mobility and unique, trend-setting design, combined with its latest brand campaign of "Big, in the city" coincide with the demands of an ever expanding urban lifestyle," said Stefan Herbert, head of smart operations at Mercedes-Benz China Ltd.

He added that smart will also introduce specialized models to their already impressive line-up this year, to include the Year of the Rabbit Limited Edition, following the success of the Tiger and Greystyle Edition models. The smart Year of the Rabbit Edition will arrive later this year, further fulfilling customer demands for individualized models.