A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.3/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.2
Comfort & Interior
4.4
Running Costs
3.9
Practicality
4
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Thinking about an electric SUV that doesn’t compromise on style? The smart #3 might be exactly what you’re looking for. This sleek electric coupe SUV brings a fresh take to the compact crossover market, combining smart’s innovative approach with the practicality modern drivers demand. It’s designed for people who want the efficiency of electric driving wrapped in a package that stands out from the crowd.
From the first glance, the #3 makes a statement with its aerodynamic silhouette and distinctive design language. Unlike traditional SUVs that prioritise bulk over beauty, the smart #3 takes a different approach. The interior feels surprisingly spacious and tech focused, with a modern digital dashboard and premium materials throughout. You get the sense that every element has been carefully considered to create a cohesive driving experience.
Behind the wheel, the #3 delivers instant electric acceleration that makes city driving effortless and motorway merging confident. The low centre of gravity gives it composed handling that belies its SUV categorisation. With a respectable electric range and fast charging capabilities, it aims to make electric ownership as convenient as possible. While it commands a premium price point, you’re investing in cutting edge technology and a brand that’s reimagining what smart mobility looks like for the future.
What's the smart #3 Like to Drive?
The smart #3 is engineered to deliver smooth, instant electric power that transforms your daily driving. The entry level Pro model produces around 268 horsepower, providing brisk acceleration that reaches 62mph in approximately 5.9 seconds. The more powerful Brabus variant unleashes 422 horsepower with all wheel drive, cutting that sprint time to just 3.7 seconds. This makes it genuinely quick by any standard, not just for an electric SUV.
Where the #3 truly excels is in its refined driving character. The electric powertrain delivers its torque silently and smoothly, making every journey feel effortless. The steering is precise and well weighted, giving you confidence through corners while remaining light enough for easy parking. The suspension strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control. It soaks up road imperfections admirably while keeping body roll in check during spirited driving. This creates a driving experience that feels both relaxing and engaging.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
Electric motor (single or dual)
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Power Output
268 - 422 bhp
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0-60 mph
5.9 - 3.7 seconds
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MPG Combined
273 - 265 miles
- Boot Space
- 411 litres
- Safety Rating
- (Euro NCAP)
Inside the smart #3: Comfort & Features
Step inside the smart #3 and you’re greeted by a cabin that feels more premium than you might expect. The dashboard is dominated by a large touchscreen that controls most functions, creating a clean and minimalist aesthetic. The materials used throughout feel high quality, with soft touch plastics and well finished surfaces. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, offering good adjustment range to help you find the perfect driving position.
The tech integration is excellent, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The infotainment system responds quickly and the interface is intuitive to navigate. One of the standout features is how quiet the cabin remains at all speeds. The excellent sound insulation, combined with the silent electric drivetrain, creates a serene environment that makes longer journeys particularly pleasant. Rear passengers get decent space for a compact SUV, though taller adults might find headroom a bit tight due to the sloping roofline.
The smart #3 successfully reinvents the brand for the electric age, delivering a compelling blend of style, technology, and performance. It stands out in a crowded market by prioritising design and driving enjoyment alongside practical electric capabilities. The interior quality exceeds expectations, and the electric drivetrain provides both efficiency and excitement. The main drawbacks are the premium pricing and limited rear headroom due to the coupe styling. It’s not the most spacious option in its class, and some may find the touch heavy interface takes adjustment. However, if you want an electric SUV that makes a statement and delivers genuine driving pleasure, the smart #3 is an excellent choice. It’s perfectly suited for buyers who appreciate distinctive design and are ready to embrace the benefits of electric mobility.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a smart #3?
As an electric vehicle, the smart #3 offers some compelling running cost advantages. Charging at home overnight costs significantly less than filling a petrol tank, and you can expect real world efficiency that translates to around 3.5 to 4 miles per kWh. Public rapid charging is becoming increasingly accessible, and the #3 can accept fast charging speeds up to 150kW, meaning a 10 to 80 percent charge takes around 30 minutes.
The main consideration is the higher initial purchase price compared to conventional SUVs. However, electric vehicles benefit from lower company car tax rates and no road tax, which helps offset some costs. Servicing requirements are also reduced with fewer moving parts than traditional engines. Insurance costs are moderate for the class, though they reflect the car’s performance capabilities. With government grants and flexible car finance options available, the total cost of ownership becomes more manageable than the upfront price might suggest.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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smart #3
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Volvo EX40
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Tesla Model Y
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £35,000 | £38,000 | £45,000 |
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Performance
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| Power | 268 bhp | 231 bhp | 299 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 seconds | 7.3 seconds | 5.2 seconds |
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Running Costs
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 411 litres | 452 litres | 854 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Distinctive styling, Premium interior, Fast charging | Scandinavian design, Safety focus, Practicality | Supercharger network, Over-air updates, Performance |
smart #3 Practicality & Boot Space
For a compact electric SUV, the smart #3 offers impressive practicality. The 411 litre boot is well shaped and easily accommodates a weekly shop or holiday luggage for two. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo space when needed, and there’s additional storage space under the bonnet for charging cables. Inside the cabin, you’ll find thoughtfully placed storage compartments for phones, drinks, and everyday items.
Where the #3 shows its limitations is in rear passenger space for longer journeys. While fine for children or shorter trips, the sloping roofline means taller adults might find headroom compromised. For couples or small families who prioritise style over maximum space, the #3 strikes a good balance. Its compact dimensions make it excellent for city driving and parking, yet it still offers enough room for practical daily use. Compared to other used smart cars, the #3 represents a significant step up in both size and capability.
“Absolutely love my smart #3 Pro. The instant acceleration never gets old and the build quality feels really solid. The tech is intuitive once you get used to it. My only minor complaint is rear visibility could be better, but everything else is brilliant.” by James Mitchell
The smart #3 stands out in the competitive electric SUV market by offering genuine style and substance in equal measure. It combines smart’s heritage of urban focused design with modern electric technology and surprising performance capabilities. The result is a car that feels both distinctive and practical for everyday use.
You choose the smart #3 because you want an electric SUV that doesn’t blend into the background. Its striking looks, premium interior, and engaging driving experience make every journey feel special. While it may not offer the maximum space of some rivals, it provides more than enough practicality for most buyers while delivering efficiency and style in spades. If you’re looking for an electric vehicle that truly stands out, the smart #3 deserves serious consideration.