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Once known for its fuel-efficient microcars, Smart has been absent from the Australian market for nearly a decade but has returned as an EV-only brand with two new models.
The Smart #1 and Smart #3 are positioned alternately as a small family SUV and a sporty compact SUV but are based on the same platform underpinnings, so differentiated mainly by styling.
Described as “German designed and engineered premium electric vehicles”, they’re built in China thanks to Smart being a 50:50 joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Chinese car maker Geely.
Both models are available in three grades and arrive brimming with tech and safety features. We like the lower, smoother styling of the Smart #3 which achieves slightly more range than the identically powered #1 thanks to its superior aerodynamics.
Pricing starts at $57,900 (MRLP) for the entry-level Pro+, rising to $61,900 (MRLP) for the Premium, and reaching $70,900 (MRLP) for the Brabus.
The standard drivetrain for #3 Pro+ and Premium is a 66kWh battery and single electric motor sending 200kW/343Nm to the rear wheels, while the Brabus gets a punchier 315kW/543Nm dual-motor drivetrain.
Range-wise, the Pro+ claims up to 435km on the WLTP standard, and gallops 0-100km/h in 5.8 seconds. The Premium matches that acceleration but gets an additional 20km of range (455km WLTP), due to a different invertor and heat pump.
But if you really want to go places in a hurry, the natty #3 Brabus looks the goods and stops the clock in a blistering 3.7 seconds, although its range is reduced to 415km (WLTP).
For more, visit the Smart website.