I don't understand smart cars. My friend had one and I said something to the effect of "at least it gets good gas mileage". I was shocked to find out he was get

I don't understand smart cars. My friend had one and I said something to the effect of "at least it gets good gas mileage". I was shocked to find out he was getting roughly the same gas mileage as my old Honda Civic. What is the point if it doesn't even get good gas mileage?