Vehicle Overview
The Smart #1, launched in 2022, represents the rebirth of the Smart brand under joint ownership of Mercedes-Benz and Geely. No longer just a city microcar, the #1 is a fully electric subcompact crossover SUV that blends urban practicality, premium technology, and clean design in a modern EV package.
Built on Geely’s SEA (Sustainable Experience Architecture) platform — shared with the Volvo EX30 and Zeekr X — the Smart #1 combines German design precision with Chinese engineering innovation.
For 2025, the #1 lineup continues with models like the Pro+, Premium, and high-performance Brabus, offering range up to 273 miles, fast charging, and a cabin filled with cutting-edge digital tech. It competes with the Volvo EX30, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Peugeot e-2008 in the growing small EV crossover segment.
Key Specifications (2025 Smart #1 Premium)
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Platform | SEA (Sustainable Experience Architecture) |
| Powertrain | Single-motor RWD (dual-motor AWD in Brabus) |
| Power Output | 272 hp (200 kW) – Premium / 428 hp (315 kW) – Brabus |
| Torque | 343 Nm (RWD) / 543 Nm (AWD) |
| Transmission | Single-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD (Pro+, Premium) / AWD (Brabus) |
| 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) | 6.7 seconds (RWD) / 3.9 seconds (Brabus) |
| Top Speed | 112 mph (180 km/h) |
| Battery Capacity (Net) | 66 kWh (62 kWh usable) |
| Range (WLTP) | Up to 273 miles (440 km) |
| Charging (DC fast) | Up to 150 kW (10–80% in 29 mins) |
| Charging (AC) | 22 kW (0–100% in ~3 hours) |
| Length / Width / Height | 4,270 mm / 1,822 mm / 1,636 mm |
| Boot Capacity | 323 L (986 L with seats folded) + 15 L frunk |
Exterior Design
The Smart #1 marks a bold new era for the brand — modern, aerodynamic, and upscale while keeping a friendly personality.
Design highlights include
Smooth, minimalist bodywork with short overhangs
LED Matrix headlights and full-width light bars (front and rear)
Floating roof design with two-tone paint options
Flush door handles and 19-inch aerodynamic alloys
| Brabus model | sporty bumpers, red accents, and 20-inch wheels |
Designed by Mercedes-Benz, the #1 blends urban chic with premium sophistication, giving it a distinct identity in the compact EV space.
Interior, Comfort & Materials
Step inside the Smart #1, and you’re greeted with a premium, tech-forward cabin that feels more Mercedes than city car.
Highlights include
12.8-inch floating central touchscreen (infotainment hub)
9.2-inch digital driver display + 10-inch head-up display (Premium)
Panoramic glass roof and ambient LED lighting
Soft-touch materials and vegan leather upholstery
Floating centre console with storage underneath
Heated front seats with memory function
Dual-zone climate control and air-purification system
Cabin space is impressive for its size — thanks to the flat floor and wide body — with plenty of room for four adults and generous headroom front and rear.
Features & Infotainment
The Smart #1 is packed with cutting-edge digital features and intuitive software.
12.8-inch infotainment screen with Smart OS (powered by Geely)
Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (wired and wireless)
Voice assistant (“Hello Smart”) with natural speech recognition
3D navigation with real-time charging station data
Over-the-air (OTA) software updates
Digital key via smartphone app
13-speaker BeatsAudio premium sound system (Premium & Brabus)
Smart app for remote climate control and charging management
The system is fast, visually stunning, and refreshingly playful — designed to appeal to younger, tech-savvy buyers.
Safety & Ratings
The Smart #1 earned top marks in independent safety evaluations, featuring advanced assistance systems comparable to premium brands.
Key features include
Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
Lane Keep Assist & Lane Change Assist
Blind Spot Detection & Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Traffic Sign Recognition
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
Driver Attention Monitoring
360° Surround View Camera System
These features, combined with a rigid structure and 7 airbags, make the Smart #1 a very safe small EV.
Driving Performance
The Smart #1 offers a refined and surprisingly dynamic drive, thanks to its advanced SEA platform and rear-wheel-drive balance.
Driving impressions
| RWD models | smooth, balanced, and agile with quick steering |
Instant torque delivery makes urban driving effortless
| Brabus AWD | sports-car acceleration (0–62 mph in 3.9s) |
Comfortable ride quality, tuned for both city streets and highway use
Low centre of gravity from battery placement enhances stability
The result is a fun, comfortable, and confident EV that feels far more premium than its badge might suggest.
Efficiency / EV Range
| Battery | 66 kWh net capacity |
Range (WLTP)
Pro+ / Premium (RWD): Up to 273 miles (440 km)
| Brabus (AWD) | Around 250 miles (402 km) |
| Energy consumption | ~16.0–17.0 kWh/100 km |
Charging times
| DC 150 kW | 10–80% in 29 minutes |
| AC 22 kW | 0–100% in about 3 hours |
The combination of strong range, fast charging, and 22 kW onboard AC makes the Smart #1 one of the most convenient small EVs for both city and long-distance use.
Practicality & Everyday Usability
Despite compact dimensions, the Smart #1 is impressively practical:
| Boot space | 323 L (986 L seats folded) |
| Small front trunk (frunk) | 15 L — ideal for charging cables |
Flat rear floor and wide-opening doors
Plenty of small-item storage throughout cabin
High seating position and excellent visibility
Tight 10.5m turning circle — perfect for city parking
It’s a car designed for urban mobility with real-life versatility.
Warranty & Maintenance
| Vehicle warranty | 3 years / 60,000 miles |
| Battery warranty | 8 years / 100,000 miles (70% capacity retention) |
| Service interval | Every 2 years or 20,000 miles |
| Roadside assistance | Included for the warranty period |
Running costs are minimal, with low electricity usage and virtually no maintenance needs beyond routine checks.
Price & Value for Money
| Trim | Powertrain | Range (WLTP) | Starting Price (UK) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pro+ | 272 hp RWD | 260 mi | ~£35,000 |
| Premium | 272 hp RWD | 273 mi | ~£38,000 |
| Brabus | 428 hp AWD | 250 mi | ~£43,000 |
While not the cheapest, the Smart #1 justifies its price with premium build quality, performance, and features — offering Mercedes-level refinement in a compact package.
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Powertrain | Range (WLTP) | 0–62 mph | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smart #1 Premium | RWD, 66 kWh | 273 mi | 6.7s | £38k |
| Volvo EX30 Extended Range | RWD, 69 kWh | 298 mi | 5.3s | £34k |
| Hyundai Kona Electric (Long Range) | FWD, 65.4 kWh | 319 mi | 7.8s | £36k |
| Peugeot e-2008 | FWD, 54 kWh | 251 mi | 8.5s | £34k |
The Smart #1 stands out for its premium interior, fast AC/DC charging, and performance, while retaining compact city usability.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Premium-quality interior and design
Strong performance and quick charging
Spacious and practical for its size
Excellent tech and safety features
Brabus version offers sports-car pace
Cons
Slightly higher price than some rivals
No heat pump on lower trims
Boot space smaller than average compact SUV
⭐ Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.7 / 5)
Final Verdict
The 2025 Smart #1 is a brilliant reinvention of the Smart brand — stylish, high-tech, and surprisingly versatile. It’s not just a city car anymore; it’s a premium electric crossover that delivers comfort, range, and fun in equal measure.
Whether you choose the refined Premium or the thrilling Brabus, the Smart #1 proves that small can still be smart, powerful, and luxurious.
| Who it’s for | Urban professionals and small families seeking a premium, compact EV with impressive performance, technology, and everyday practicality. |
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Pros & cons
- Smooth and quiet electric driving character
- Potentially low home-charging costs for regular commuters
- Raised driving position and practical cabin layout
- Useful family-friendly versatility
- Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
- Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
- Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
- Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
- Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
- Public charging costs and winter range need checking before purchase
Final verdict
The Smart #1 is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting quiet electric running and low local emissions, a raised driving position and useful family practicality. |
| Body style | Suv/Crossover |
| Powertrain focus | Electric |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Smart #1 good for UK roads?
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.