Motors with Joe Rayfus: #3 making all the Smart moves

The all-electric Smart #3 arrives as a new chapter in the Smart brand’s evolution, taking over from the Smart #1 and stepping up with more style, space, and a slightly improved range. Now a coupé-styled SUV, the #3 sets itself apart with a longer and lower frame that makes it one of the more visually striking vehicles in its class. But looks aside, does it hold up on Irish roads and justify its price against competitors like the Peugeot e-3008, Skoda Enyaq Coupé, or Volvo EC40?

From the first glance, the Smart #3’s design takes the brand in a fresh direction. Compared to the chunkier Smart #1, the #3 is sleeker, with a coupé-like silhouette that is both longer and lower, lending it an almost sporty stance. While Smart enthusiasts will find some familiar elements in the cabin, the updated dashboard, with its trio of circular air vents, enhances the sense of refinement. Up front, the driving position is lowered, which might not be to everyone’s taste but certainly gives a more engaging, cockpit-like feel, with plenty of steering and seat adjustments.

Visibility is mostly good, but the coupé styling does result in some compromises. Over-the-shoulder views are a bit restricted, which makes the included 360-degree camera system a welcome addition for parking and tight manoeuvres in the city.

Under the hood, the Smart #3 offers the same powertrain options as its predecessor, but with some slight advantages in range due to the improved aerodynamics. The standard Pro model delivers 325km of range, while the Pro+ version will do 435km, and the Premium featuring a slightly more efficient motor, can reach up to 455km. For those craving more power, the Brabus edition adds a front motor for all-wheel drive, producing a hefty 422bhp and cutting the 0-100 km/h sprint to just 3.7 seconds—quicker than some performance-oriented models on the market. The model I tested was the 25th Anniversary Edition which is capable of 455km and will shoot to 100km from a standing start in 5.8 seconds.

Regardless of the trim level, the driving experience in the Smart #3 is lively. Handling is precise, and you have the option of adjusting the steering weight through the touchscreen, though lighter settings can feel overly delicate at higher speeds. Still, the overall agility of the #3 makes it a competent performer on twisty Irish back roads and an enjoyable EV to drive.

Step inside, and you’ll notice a refined, well-built interior with materials that feel premium yet durable. The 9.2-inch digital display behind the steering wheel is clear and responsive, and in higher trims, you’ll enjoy a head-up display for quick glances at speed and navigation.

The central 12.8-inch touchscreen is the hub for nearly every function, from infotainment to climate control, which can be a bit cumbersome when adjusting air conditioning on the go.

It’s overly complex to use and is far from intuitive. It’s pretty much the same system as is found in the #1. One quirky feature is the cheetah avatar that follows you from screen to screen, but it’s an easily overlooked novelty. What would probably be straightforward and very cool to most 14-year-olds, drove 42-year-old me insane. Still, it’s compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it user-friendly for most smartphone users.

Space-wise, the Smart #3 fares well, especially for a coupé-styled SUV. Up front, passengers get ample legroom and head clearance, even for taller occupants.

However, those taller drivers will have to endure some high-pitched squeaks as the leather seat rubs off the central rest when you move it back into position.

The rear seats are equally spacious, accommodating adults comfortably, with sufficient headroom despite the sloping roofline. The boot space, at 370 litres, is decent for its size class but falls short of rivals like the Skoda Enyaq Coupé and the Peugeot e-3008. Still, it should be more than enough for everyday needs, and the rear seatback folds down in a 60/40 split for extra flexibility.

In the Irish market, the Smart #3 in Pro trim starts from €38,714. Opting for Premium or Brabus trims does increase the price, but you’re getting features like a head-up display, improved sound system, and extra safety equipment as part of the package. The 25th Anniversary Edition that I tested is quite pricey, starting at €51,765.