Vehicle Overview
The Smart #3, introduced in 2023, is the second all-electric model from the revitalized Smart brand — a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Geely.
While the smaller Smart #1 focuses on urban practicality, the #3 brings a sleeker, sportier, coupe-inspired crossover design, targeting drivers who want more space, performance, and sophistication in an electric SUV format.
Built on Geely’s SEA (Sustainable Experience Architecture) — also used by the Volvo EX30 — the #3 combines Mercedes-Benz design with Geely’s advanced EV engineering, resulting in a stylish and capable compact electric crossover.
With up to 455 km (283 miles) of WLTP range, ultra-fast charging, and a powerful Brabus performance variant, the 2025 Smart #3 competes with the Tesla Model Y, Volkswagen ID.5, and Hyundai Ioniq 5 as a dynamic yet accessible premium EV.
Key Specifications (2025 Smart #3 Premium)
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Platform | SEA (Sustainable Experience Architecture) |
| Powertrain | Single-motor RWD / Dual-motor AWD (Brabus) |
| Power Output | 272 hp (200 kW) – RWD / 428 hp (315 kW) – AWD |
| Torque | 343 Nm (RWD) / 543 Nm (AWD) |
| Transmission | Single-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive (Pro+, Premium) / All-wheel drive (Brabus) |
| 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) | 5.8 seconds (RWD) / 3.7 seconds (Brabus AWD) |
| Top Speed | 112 mph (180 km/h) |
| Battery Capacity (Net) | 66 kWh (62 kWh usable) |
| Range (WLTP) | Up to 283 miles (455 km) |
| Charging (DC Fast) | Up to 150 kW (10–80% in ~30 minutes) |
| Charging (AC) | 22 kW (0–100% in ~3 hours) |
| Length / Width / Height | 4,440 mm / 1,844 mm / 1,556 mm |
| Boot Capacity | 370 L (1,160 L seats folded) + 15 L frunk |
Exterior Design
The Smart #3 stands out with a sleek, coupe-like silhouette that blends sporty proportions with aerodynamic efficiency. Designed by Mercedes-Benz, it presents a more emotional and dynamic look compared to the boxier Smart #1.
Design highlights include
Sloping roofline and smooth aerodynamic profile (Cd 0.27)
LED Matrix headlights with connecting front light bar
Full-width rear LED taillight strip
Two-tone floating roof and flush door handles
18–20-inch alloy wheels with aerodynamic styling
| Brabus variant | sportier bumpers, red highlights, and rear diffuser |
The result is a crossover that’s both sleek and assertive, delivering a premium aesthetic with an athletic edge.
Interior, Comfort & Materials
The cabin of the Smart #3 is a fusion of modern design, technology, and premium craftsmanship — clearly influenced by Mercedes-Benz’s design philosophy.
Interior highlights include
12.8-inch central touchscreen (Smart OS interface)
9.2-inch digital driver display + 10-inch head-up display (Premium)
Circular turbine-style air vents and ambient lighting
Panoramic glass roof with electric sunshade
Vegan leather upholstery and soft-touch materials throughout
Heated and ventilated front seats with memory function
SportLine and Brabus models add contrast stitching and sports seats
The coupe design doesn’t compromise comfort — there’s generous space for four adults, with excellent materials, strong build quality, and a driver-focused layout.
Features & Infotainment
The Smart #3 continues the brand’s digital-first approach, offering one of the most advanced infotainment systems in the compact EV segment.
12.8-inch high-resolution touchscreen (main interface)
Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (wired & wireless)
Hello Smart” voice assistant (natural language control)
3D navigation with real-time traffic and charging station integration
13-speaker BeatsAudio premium sound system (Premium & Brabus)
Smart app for digital key, remote climate & charging management
Over-the-air (OTA) software updates
360° camera and parking assistant
The software is smooth, visually striking, and highly customizable — a key advantage over more minimalist competitors like Tesla.
Safety & Ratings
Built with Geely’s advanced safety architecture and Mercedes-Benz’s input, the Smart #3 boasts a comprehensive safety suite and solid crash protection.
Key features include
Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
Lane Keep Assist and Lane Change Assist
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
Blind Spot Detection & Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Traffic Sign Recognition
Driver Attention Monitoring
360° Surround View Camera System
7 airbags and rigid passenger safety cell
The #3 is engineered to achieve a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, matching or exceeding its key European rivals.
Driving Performance
The Smart #3 delivers a more dynamic and refined drive than the smaller #1 — it feels planted, quick, and comfortable.
Driving impressions
RWD (272 hp) – linear, confident, and quietly powerful
Brabus AWD (428 hp) – explosive acceleration (0–62 mph in 3.7s)
Excellent balance and low centre of gravity from battery placement
Sport-tuned suspension (Brabus) with strong body control
Precise steering and composed handling on twisty roads
Comfortable ride and quiet cabin on the motorway
It’s a genuine driver’s EV — combining city agility with long-distance refinement.
Efficiency / EV Range
| Battery | 66 kWh (net) |
Range (WLTP)
| RWD | Up to 283 miles (455 km) |
| Brabus AWD | Around 260 miles (420 km) |
| Energy Consumption | 15.5–16.8 kWh/100 km |
Charging Times
| DC 150 kW | 10–80% in ~30 minutes |
| AC 22 kW | 0–100% in ~3 hours |
The Smart #3’s efficient aerodynamics and advanced power management give it a noticeable advantage in range and charging flexibility.
Practicality & Everyday Usability
Despite its sporty roofline, the #3 remains impressively usable for daily life:
| Boot space | 370 L (1,160 L seats folded) |
| Frunk | 15 L — perfect for charging cables |
Wide-opening doors and raised seating position
Ample cabin storage and clever cubbies
Rear space better than expected for a coupe SUV
Tight turning circle (10.6 m) for city driving ease
It offers urban convenience with long-trip comfort — ideal for small families or couples.
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 warranty period |
As a modern EV, the Smart #3’s low maintenance requirements and long battery warranty make ownership affordable and worry-free.
Price & Value for Money
| Trim | Powertrain | Range (WLTP) | Starting Price (UK) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pro+ | 272 hp RWD | 260 mi | ~£36,000 |
| Premium | 272 hp RWD | 283 mi | ~£39,000 |
| Brabus | 428 hp AWD | 260 mi | ~£44,000 |
The Smart #3 commands a premium over the #1 but offers greater space, longer range, and sportier performance, making it a solid value in the premium compact EV crossover class.
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Powertrain | Range (WLTP) | 0–62 mph | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smart #3 Premium | RWD, 66 kWh | 283 mi | 5.8s | £39k |
| Tesla Model Y RWD | RWD, 60 kWh | 283 mi | 6.9s | £45k |
| Volvo EX30 Extended Range | RWD, 69 kWh | 298 mi | 5.3s | £34k |
| VW ID.5 Pro | RWD, 77 kWh | 336 mi | 6.7s | £47k |
The Smart #3 stands out for its style, quality, and value, offering near-premium performance and technology at a lower price than most rivals.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Sleek coupe design and premium feel
Long range and ultra-fast charging
Excellent performance, especially in Brabus form
Luxurious interior and advanced tech
Compact yet practical for families
Cons
Smaller boot than boxier SUVs
Pricey top trims
Limited visibility due to sloping roofline
⭐ Overall Rating: ★★★★★ (4.8 / 5)
Final Verdict
The 2025 Smart #3 represents a confident step forward for the reborn Smart brand. It combines elegant design, cutting-edge tech, and thrilling performance in a compact electric crossover that feels every bit as premium as its Mercedes roots suggest.
With strong range, high build quality, and a dynamic driving character, the Smart #3 bridges the gap between city-friendly EVs and true long-distance electric crossovers.
| Who it’s for | Style-conscious urban families and professionals seeking a sporty, refined, and future-proof electric crossover that stands apart from the mainstream. |
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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 #3 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
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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.