With high gas prices, the smart car for two is creating a stir. Consumer Reports recently evaluated the tiny two-seater to see if it really is a smart buy.

The vehicle made its debut in the United States this spring, after buzzing around Europe for 10 years.

The smart brand focuses on protecting the environment, providing energy efficiency and preserving natural resources. The brand is a part of the Mercedes-Benz Cars, a Daimler AG Company.

David Champion, who heads Consumer Reports Auto Testing Center, said the inside of the car feels bigger than you might expect.

“The cabin is very airy. There’s a lot of light coming in from the sunroof and the windows are nice and big, and it actually feels quite roomy inside,” Champion said.

The vehicle also gets great gas mileage. Consumer Reports averaged 38 miles per gallon, but the smart car is one of a few that only takes premium gas.

In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash tests the smart vehicle did well – earning the institute’s highest rating in the 40 mph front crash test, as well as in the side-impact crash test. But out on the road, Consumer Reports found the car abysmal to drive.

“The ride quality is very stiff and jiggly. The bumps really come through. And you’re never really comfortable in it,” Champion said.

Acceleration isn’t very quick either, and the transmission is not smooth.

“It takes an awful long time and makes the car almost nod back and forth in between gear changes,” Champion said.

Consumer Reports said paying more than $15,000 for a smart car may not add up to a smart move.

In the small car category, Consumer Reports said a much better choice is the Honda Fit, which costs about the same as the smart car. The Honda seats five and still gets excellent mileage – 32 mpg overall for the automatic and 34 mpg for the manual.