Smart, the iconic brand known for its compact cars, is back with a bang, introducing two new electric SUVs, the Smart #1 and Smart #3. Developed through a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Geely, these new models combine German design and Chinese manufacturing, promising to bring style, performance, and practicality to the growing EV market. Set to arrive in Australia this September, the Smart #1 and #3 are geared to challenge the likes of the BYD Atto 3 and Zeekr X. Here’s everything you need to know about these electric newcomers.
Smart #1: The City-Focused Subcompact SUV
The Smart #1 is designed with city driving in mind, offering a compact size that makes it ideal for urban families. Measuring 4270mm long, 1822mm wide, and 1636mm high, this subcompact SUV is available in three variants:
- Pro+: Starting at $54,900 before on-road costs
- Premium: Priced at $58,900 before on-road costs
- Brabus: Top-of-the-line at $67,900 before on-road costs
Performance and Power:
- Pro+ and Premium: Both powered by a single rear motor, delivering 200kW of power and 343Nm of torque, allowing acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 6.7 seconds.
- Brabus: Adds an extra front motor, boosting total power to 315kW and 543Nm of torque, with a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.9 seconds.
All variants share a 66kWh NMC battery, providing a WLTP range of up to 420km, making the Smart #1 both efficient and versatile.
Smart #3: The Sporty Small SUV
For those looking for something a bit sportier, the Smart #3 offers a larger and more dynamic alternative. Measuring 4440mm long, 1844mm wide, and 1556mm high, it’s built on the same dedicated EV platform as the Smart #1 and offers two powertrain options:
- Pro+: Priced at $57,900 before on-road costs
- Premium: Starts at $61,900 before on-road costs
- Brabus: Available at $70,900 before on-road costs
Performance and Power:
- Pro+ and Premium: Equipped with a single rear motor, producing 200kW of power and 343Nm of torque, allowing it to go from 0-100 km/h in 5.8 seconds.
- Brabus: Features an additional front motor, delivering a total of 315kW of power and 543Nm of torque, enabling a rapid 0-100 km/h time of 3.7 seconds.
With a 66kWh NMC battery, the Smart #3 offers a slightly extended range of up to 435km, making it a strong contender for longer drives.
Packed with Features Across All Trims
Both the Smart #1 and #3 come loaded with a variety of features, available across three trim levels:
Pro+ Trim:
- 12.8-inch centre touchscreen
- 9.2-inch driver instrument cluster
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Panoramic roof
- Six-way adjustable front seats
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Advanced intelligent drive and drive modes
Premium Trim Adds:
- 10-inch head-up display
- Beats sound system
- Leather upholstery
- Matrix LED headlights
Brabus Trim Adds:
- Sports exterior styling
- Brabus drive mode
- Red brake callipers
- Microfiber suede upholstery
- Alcantara steering wheel
Warranty and Servicing
Smart EVs come with a 5-year/150,000-kilometer car warranty and an 8-year/150,000-kilometer battery warranty, ensuring peace of mind for buyers. Both models will be sold through existing Mercedes-Benz showrooms, with deliveries commencing in September 2024.
Final Thoughts
With competitive pricing, impressive performance, and a range of high-tech features, the new Smart #1 and #3 electric SUVs offer an exciting alternative in the growing EV market. Whether you’re looking for a city-friendly subcompact or a sporty small SUV, these new models have something to offer for every driver.
Stay tuned to CarExplore for more updates on the latest automotive news and in-depth reviews.
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