smart #1 and #3 launched in Byron Bay

smart is back, launching its new #1 and #3 electric SUVs, alongside BRABUS enhanced models of the same cars, at a special media event in Byron Bay. A partnership between Mercedes-Benz and Chinese brand Geely, they'll be distributed in Australia by LSH Auto.

We attended its unveiling, as well as taking part in a launch drive that would take us from the city to the ocean, in vehicles that have a real wow factor. Taking in traffic, freeway driving and winding country roads, our trip included stops at O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards and Byron Bay.

Fitting the luxury and comfort bill well, the smart #1 features a sleek exterior, with a floating halo roof, frameless doors, and concealed door handles. The combination gives the car a streamlined and modern look, with an interior that is spacious and has a minimalistic aesthetic.

Available in three variants; Pro+, Premium, and BRABUS, it’s the latter two we’re testing. Well built and with a funky feel, the first two variants are powered by a single motor, rear-wheel drive setup, offering 200kW of power and 343Nm of torque. They’re capable of a 0-100km/h in 6.7 seconds.

Range is up to 420km and 440km (WLTP) respectively, making them suitable for both urban and suburban driving. The BRABUS version steps up the performance significantly with a dual motor, all-wheel drive (AWD) configuration, delivering 315kW/584Nm.

That translates to a 0-100km/h sprint in just 3.9 seconds. The aggressive styling, combined with performance enhancements like sports suspension and a more responsive BRABUS driving mode, makes this variant a thrilling option.

On the road, torque is instant, and while quiet and smooth, the smart #1 leans into corners beautifully. It’s quite playful, for want of a better term, and zippy when you need it to be. The suspension package absorbs bumps incredibly well.

Inside, driving position is good, with excellent visibility, and intuitive feedback through the steering wheel. The lane assist technology is among some of the better we’ve experienced too. Regen braking can feel a little intrusive though.

Technology includes a 12.8-inch high-definition touchscreen running on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 intelligent chipset, offering a highly responsive and customisable user interface. Features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a 3D AI-based voice assistant, and a 640w Beats sound system are included.

Safety has not been compromised either. The smart #1 features a comprehensive suite of driver assistance functions, including adaptive cruise control with stop/go, lane keep assist, and emergency autonomous braking. It supports both AC and DC fast charging.

The latter allows for a 10 to 80 per cent charge in under 30 minutes at 150kW. Pricing starts at $54,900 for the Pro+, $58,900 for the Premium, and tops out at $67,900 for the BRABUS variant (all plus on-roads). Its smart #3 sibling offers a slightly larger footprint, more space and comfort.

Sporting similar design cues to the #1, but with a more elongated profile on the outside, the cabin benefits from an upgraded infotainment system, with additional functionality, alongside premium quality trims. Under the hood, or the floor if you prefer, the smart #3 shares powertrain options.

There's identical kW and Nm numbers too, although this time around, the vehicle has been tuned for a slightly different driving dynamic, focusing on long-distance capability. In terms of acceleration, the smart #3 in BRABUS trim, is even faster in the 0-100km/h sprint, taking just 3.7 seconds.

The Pro+ and Premium offer a still impressive 5.8 seconds over the same distance. On the road, it feels lighter than the smart #1, and more responsive, with a better balance. The BRABUS variant feels very sporty thanks to a lower centre of gravity, with extra luxury touches making it the standout.

An optimised suspension system, longer 2,785mm wheelbase, and improved drag coefficient of just 0.27 help lift the #3 to an improved range between 435 and 455km. Charge times are the same, or close enough to similar, to the #1.

Pricing for smart #3 starts at $57,900 for the Pro+, $61,900 for the Premium and $70,900 for BRABUS, all plus on-roads. Both vehicles are backed by a 5-year or 150,000km warranty and an 8-year or 150,000km battery warranty.

Servicing is every 20,000km or 12 months. The smart #1 and #3 compact and small SUVs offer luxury, and a compelling combination of design, efficiency and technology, in a space that’s dominated by Geely-owned brands, and its partners.

They represent the beginning of a broader range of vehicles from this particular brand, with the next model to arrive being the new smart #5, which made its world premiere at the same launch event. A mid-sized SUV, it's designed to appeal to both adventure enthusiasts and families alike.

With outstanding rear passenger space, and a maximum boot capacity of 1,530-litres (with the second row folded), it’s sure to appeal. To be offered in two variants, Pro+ and Summit the latter geared towards off roading), it’s equipped with a 100kWh battery.

That provides an impressive driving range of up to 740km, based on China’s CLTC test cycle. The SUV’s 800V architecture allows for rapid charging, with a 10 to 80 per cent recharge achievable in just 15 minutes using a DC fast charger. Inside, the smart #5 features dual 13-inch AMOLED screens across the dashboard.

This is complemented by a 25.6-inch head-up display with augmented reality navigation. Luxury is not overlooked either, with ‘zero-gravity’ leather seats with extensive recline options, and rear seat heating included.

For those who enjoy the great outdoors, the Summit edition includes a roof light bar, electric trailer hitch, and an “Adventurer’s Collection” package, which adds underbody protection, a roof carrier, side steps, a side bag, and a side ladder.

Additionally, a built-in projector behind the front grille can turn any location into a drive-in theatre, with sound coming from a 20-speaker Sennheiser audio system, and a portable speaker for outdoor use. The seating configuration can be adjusted to create various sleeping arrangements, including king-size, queen-size, or single beds.

The vehicle’s boot also provides a 220V power outlet, useful for powering gadgets or camping equipment. The smart #5 is set to launch first in China in late 2024, with European deliveries planned for mid-2025 and Australian availability expected in the second half of next year.

Pricing remains under wraps, but LSH Auto has confirmed both variants are headed here. For more information on smart #1 and smart #3, visit the LSH Auto Australia website, or talk to your local dealership. If you’re keen on one and need finance, contact CreditOne.

Further details regarding the #5 are expected closer to launch.

Our test vehicles were supplied by LSH Auto Australia as part of the Australian media launch. Story first published on Exhaust Notes Australia.

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