Unveiling the Smart #3: A Fresh Take on Electric Crossovers
A Bold Arrival: The Smart #3
The Smart #3, an all-electric five-door crossover, made its debut in the UK in Autumn 2024. This vehicle embodies a sleeker design and enhanced capabilities compared to its predecessor, the Smart #1, which hit the market just a year earlier. But what sets this new model apart, and how does it stack up in the increasingly competitive electric vehicle (EV) landscape?
Understanding the Naming Curiosity
The model is referred to as the #3 (pronounced "Hashtag Three"), which raises eyebrows about the apparent absence of a #2. While the naming convention may appear quirky, it signifies Smart’s unique branding strategy, and future models such as the #5 are already in the pipeline, suggesting an aversion to even numbers.
Trim Levels and Performance: Power in Variety
Smart is offering the #3 in four distinct trim levels: Pro, Pro+, Premium, and the high-performance Brabus model. The Brabus variant packs a punch with approximately 430 horsepower generated from dual electric motors. This powerhouse can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in under four seconds, making it a thrilling option for performance enthusiasts.
Mixed Reviews: Media Perspectives on the Smart #3
The reception of the Smart #3 has been a mixed bag thus far. John Redfern from Motoring Research notes that the #3 is “more convincing than the smaller #1.” Meanwhile, Darren Cassey at Carwow applauds its impressive interior space for a sleek SUV. Additionally, Jake Groves from Parkers remarks on the quality of the interior, indicating a more premium feel compared to its competitors.
Conversely, the touchscreen control unit has drawn considerable criticism. Honest John labels it a “counter-intuitive infotainment system,” and Redfern concurs, stating that the “multi-layered and confusing touchscreen media system lets the side down.”
Summary of Critiques: Style Over Substance?
Publications like Car sum up the Smart #3 as being “perfectly fine, if not amazing in any area”—a sentiment shared by Sam Burnett at Top Gear, who concludes that it lacks a distinctiveness in design.
Expert Rating: A Mixed Bag
As of January 2025, the Smart #3 holds a New Car Expert Rating of A, achieving a score of 78%. The vehicle shines in terms of safety, boasting an excellent safety rating and zero tailpipe emissions, which are major plus points. However, below-par media review scores prevent it from competing with the top-rated models.
Key Highlights and Lowlights
Highlights:
- Abundant onboard technology
- More spacious interior compared to the #1
- Strong performance from the Brabus model
- More affordable than direct competitors
Lowlights:
- Criticism surrounding the touchscreen system
- Limited boot space
- Average driving experience in standard models
- Confusing naming convention
A Closer Look: Key Specifications
The Smart #3 is categorized as a medium coupé-SUV/crossover, powered entirely by electricity. It boasts a starting price of £32,950 on the road, and it was launched in Spring 2024. The next model’s replacement is yet to be announced.
Safety Matters: An Impressive Record
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
The Smart #3 has undergone rigorous testing, resulting in impressive safety ratings:
- Adult protection: 90%
- Child protection: 86%
- Vulnerable road users: 84%
- Safety assist: 85%
Eco-Friendliness: A Zero Emissions Champion
As of January 2025, the Smart #3 has not received a formal eco rating from Green NCAP, but given that it is an electric vehicle, one could expect it to excel in future assessments, particularly in energy efficiency and emissions.
Reliability Rating: Still Under Evaluation
Currently, there is insufficient reliability data on the Smart #3 to produce a formal rating. MotorEasy is monitoring this closely, and updates should be expected as more data becomes available.
Running Costs: Affordable Ownership
The Smart #3 presents itself as an economical choice for ownership:
- Battery range: 259 miles
- Electrical efficiency: 4.1 m/KWh
- Service costs for the first five years average approximately £4,733.
While electrical efficiency is rated C, it still offers a decent range for everyday use. Initial service costs may appear moderate, but they are expected to improve over time.
Competing Alternatives: More Options to Explore
If the Smart #3 piques your interest, you may also want to explore other vehicles in the segment:
- BMW iX2
- Citroën ë-C4 X
- Kia Niro EV
- Volkswagen ID.3
- Peugeot e-2008
These models showcase the variety in the increasingly crowded electric vehicle market.
Subscription and Leasing Options: Flexibility for Consumers
As consumer interest in electric vehicles continues to rise, subscriptions have become a popular option for those wishing to experience an EV before committing to purchasing. Organizations like Carparison and Rivervale offer leasing and subscription services, enhancing accessibility to the Smart #3.
Conclusion: Where Does the Smart #3 Fit In?
To summarize, the Smart #3 presents a fresh perspective in the electric crossover market, with notable strengths in performance and safety. However, its mixed reviews concerning technology and interior space suggest it may not be for everyone. As Smart continues to innovate and expand its lineup, it’s exciting to see where the future takes them. The #3 is a step forward, yet it faces significant competition. Will it capture the hearts of consumers, or will it fade into the growing list of EV options? Only time will tell.
