Day 2: Miramichi to Ottawa

OTTAWA – With a scheduled 12-hour drive, today was going to be our first “real” day in the Smart. Especially since we were kicking off the morning driving New Brunswick’s infamous Hwy 108, from Renous to Plaster Rock.

Primarily built for loggers, this 201 km-stretch of twisty, hilly two-lane is a great way to save time if you need to get across the top of New Brunswick. The St. John’s Valley route to the west, through Fredericton, is arguably more scenic. But those in the know use the 108.

JOHN LEBLANC FOR THE TORONTO STAR

Despite its notorious potholes, New Brunswick's Hwy. 108 was no match for the sturdy ForTwo.

However, the route presents are a few challenges.

The combination of heavy logging trucks, and soft soil underneath, means the 108 is perpetual need of repair. Potholes the size of, well, Smart ForTwos, wandering wildlife and eroding road shoulders all need to be dealt with while you share the road with 18-wheelers.

Testament to its sturdy build, our ForTwo hung in there. We arrived in Plaster Rock in one piece, knowing the rest of the day would consist of more relaxed motoring.

Keep in mind. This trip isn’t an economy run. From Halifax to Vancouver, I’ll be driving the Smart like a real car. That means keeping up with traffic as best we can. On four-lanes, that means in the 100-120 km/h range.

So far, we’ve definitely been passed by other cars. But we have also passed as many.

As we crossed into the province of Québec, the sight of the St Lawrence River meant the rolling hills that challenged the Smart’s fuel consumption so far were now behind us.

JOHN LEBLANC FOR THE TORONTO STAR

Old meets the new: Vieux Quebec and the 2007 Smart car.

Except for a detour for a quick visit to Vieux-Québec, the rest of the driving day was spent on flat terrains. With this, our fuel consumption for the day improves to 5.0L/100 kms. That’s getting closer to Smart’s Transport Canada combined estimate of 4.2.

Tonight, we eat our own food, drink our own drink and sleep in our own beds. Tomorrow night, it’s Sault Ste. Marie.

At least that’s what the spreadsheet says…

Day 2: Friday, June 22
Miramichi to Ottawa
Distance: 1,034 km
Average fuel consumption (L/100 km): 5.0
Weather: Showers turned into sunshine, 15 C
Smart car sightings: 5