Reviving the Icon: Smart’s Return to Australia with the #3 Brabus
A Nostalgic Reintroduction
Remember Smart, the quirky car brand renowned for its tiny city cars that first made their debut in the early 2000s? Australia was initially graced with these pint-sized vehicles in 2003, thanks to the backing of parent company Mercedes-Benz. While Smart garnered a loyal following, fluctuating sales ultimately led to its withdrawal from the Australian market in 2014. Fast forward to today, and Smart is back, eager to redefine its image with two new models designed to stand out in the evolving automotive landscape.
The Comeback: What’s New?
Smart’s latest offerings, the #3 and its smaller sibling, the #1, are not just your average city cars. Reimagined as part of a joint venture between Mercedes and Geely, these models are built on the same scalable platform found in the Volvo EX30 and Zeekr X. Dubbed the #3 (yes, that’s the "hashtag three"), this model aims to capture the imagination of consumers who prioritize innovation, performance, and eco-friendliness.
Price Point and Competitive Edge
The #3 offers a competitive starting price of $57,900 plus on-road costs, with the fully loaded #3 Brabus variant retailing at $70,900. In comparison to the EX30, which is priced between $300 and $3,000 more, the Smart vehicles present an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers seeking a compact electric SUV.
Features That Impress
One glance at the #3 Brabus reveals a package filled with enticing features. Standard equipment includes:
- A panoramic glass roof
- Power-adjustable, heated, and cooled front seats
- A sophisticated 13-speaker Beats audio system
- A 12.8-inch touchscreen loaded with live services and wireless smartphone mirroring
- Ambient lighting
- Advanced safety features like AEB, adaptive cruise control, and matrix adaptive high beam.
The Brabus variant further enhances the experience with a sport-tuned chassis, additional driving modes, 20-inch alloy wheels, and unique styling elements that showcase its performance pedigree.
Power Under the Hood
All models in the #3 lineup are equipped with a 66kWh NMC battery capable of DC fast charging. In practical terms, this means you can charge from 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes—a compelling convenience for urban drivers. The standard model features a 200kW rear-mounted motor, while the Brabus model adds a second front motor for an impressive 315kW of total output and 543Nm of torque, making it nearly ten times as powerful as the original Smart Fortwo.
Performance That Excites
Boasting a claimed 0-100km/h time of just 3.7 seconds, the #3 Brabus surprises with its robust performance. Handling dynamics are engaging, and the car offers a well-damped ride that will please sportier drivers. Even though the steering lacks a certain tactile feedback, its quick and well-weighted nature provides a satisfactory experience.
Efficiency vs. Performance
While the Brabus model shines in performance, potential buyers might want to consider the non-Brabus variants for superior efficiency. Observations during test drives indicated a real-world consumption of 19.8 kWh/100km, which exceeds its efficiency claims, along with a range that falls short of the promised 415km (WLTP).
An Interior Worthy of its Heritage
Upon stepping into the #3 Brabus, it’s evident that the Mercedes-Benz legacy carries over into the cabin design. High-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship catch the eye, providing a refined atmosphere that sets it apart from its competitors. The dashboard features three central air vents reminiscent of classic Mercs, along with ambient lighting options that can be customized to suit individual tastes.
Digital Innovations
At the heart of the cabin is the vibrant 12.8-inch touchscreen that provides access to a plethora of features, including an interesting interactive graphic—a cute fox—on the main display. While the user interface has room for improvement, especially with regard to menu layout and the absence of physical buttons, essential features like Apple CarPlay connectivity and built-in navigation enhance the driving experience significantly.
Practicality Meets Style
Despite being compact at 4.4 meters, the #3 surprises with spacious rear seats and a cabin that feels more open, thanks in part to the panoramic glass roof. It’s worth noting that the roof lacks a shade option, which can lead to some unwanted heat on sunny days. Additionally, the boot space starts at a practical 370 liters, expanding to 1160 liters with the rear seats folded, along with a modest 15L front frunk.
A Promising Future
With its re-entry into the Australian market, Smart appears committed to forging a new identity. The #3 Brabus model is memorable in its own right, offering thrilling performance, engaging handling, and a design that commands attention. It stands apart from competitors, not merely as a small electric SUV, but as an adventurous option for those who relish individuality.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Smart
In summation, Smart’s return with the #3 Brabus marks a pivotal moment in the automotive landscape for compact electric SUVs. Combining strong performance, cutting-edge technology, and a distinctive aesthetic, Smart aims to capture the hearts of those seeking both functionality and flair in their vehicles. For anyone looking to stand out on the roads while remaining eco-conscious, the new Smart models offer a fascinating path forward. This time, Smart seems ready not just to participate but to thrive.
