► #3 is Smart’s first-ever coupe-SUV
► Includes hot 422bhp Brabus model
► Same design language as Smart #1
More details of Smart’s new #3 coupe SUV have been revealed ahead of its European launch. It’ll become the brand’s first foray into the coupe-SUV market where it’ll tackle cars like the Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron, Kia EV6, Polestar 2 and Tesla Model Y.
Dirk Adelmann, CEO of Smart Europe, says: ‘Our goal has always been to address the multifaceted and changing needs for mobility. Therefore, smart will keep on expanding its product family to offer a variety of cars that optimally suit different customer groups and lifestyles.’
Suitably buzzwordy… what do I need to know?
The Smart #3 shares its design language with the Smart #1, retaining features like its rounded ‘shark nose’ front end, slimline LED headlights and A-shaped grille. Naturally, it’s a larger car with a more sloped roofline than the smaller #1. The new #3 measures 4400mm long and 1844mm wide. That makes this new car around 130mm longer and 160mm wider than the Smart #1.
Inside, it looks remarkably similar to the #1, too. A high-up centre console, big centre screen (complete with some rather wacky animations) and a chunky steering wheel. Smart says the #3 also can be had with a head-up display and a 13-speaker Beats audio system.
The trim levels in Europe will comprise Pro+ (pictured in black), Premium (pictured in grey) and a hot Brabus model (pictured in orange) with a sportier bodykit and larger wheels. On top of that, there’s also a 25th anniversary edition loaded with toys designed as a nod to – you guessed it – 25 years of Smart.
Give me some performance and range specs
All Smart #3 models have the same battery size: 66kWh. The Pro+, Premium and 25th Anniversary models all feature the same powertrain: a single e-motor on the rear axle developing 268bhp, good for a 5.8sec 0-62mph time and a top speed of 112mph. Smart says these models are capable of up to 282 miles on a charge and feature up to 150kW charging speeds.
The Brabus model benefits from all-wheel drive via an additional motor on the front axle, meaning 422bhp is available. The top speed remains the same, but the Brabus spec sprints to 62mph in just 3.7 seconds. Range claims top out at 258 miles.
When can I get one?
Prices have only been confirmed for the German market so far (they start at €43,490 for a base Pro+) with the car launching towards the end of 2023 there. Elsewhere, including the UK, expect the #3 to go on sale in the first few months of 2024.