Smart #1 Review: A Fresh Electric Era for Smart?

Introduction

As we find ourselves amidst an electric revolution, automotive brands, both old and new, are racing to leave their mark. The Smart brand, historically synonymous with compact city cars, has rolled the dice in a bold new direction with the unveiling of the Smart #1. Shaking off its image of minuscule two-seaters, this new entrant seeks to redefine what the brand stands for in this electrified age. In a market saturated with EVs of all shapes and sizes, the Smart #1 beckons us with a promise of evolution and novelty. But beyond its new stature and electric heart, does it truly hold its ground as a fresh vision for the brand? Let’s delve deeper to understand what this shift signifies for Smart and its enthusiasts.

Exterior Design and Styling

The Smart #1, at the outset, seems like an ambitious departure from the brand’s traditional design ethos. The familiar compact and quirky nature of Smart cars has given way to a more assertive and sizeable SUV silhouette. While the new structure aligns with contemporary automotive trends, there’s an underlying question: does it retain the unique essence that Smart has always embodied?

The design language is undoubtedly modern, with crisp lines and a refined finish that offers a nod to urban sophistication. However, a noticeable drawback might be its slightly generic stance. Amidst a sea of SUVs in today’s market, the Smart #1 risks blending in a bit too seamlessly, potentially losing some of its distinctive character that made the brand stand out in the first place.

Interior

The moment you step inside the Smart #1, you’re met with a fusion of modernity and minimalism. The cabin seems to embrace the future, with an evident emphasis on technology and user interface. Central to this theme is the sizable 12.8-inch infotainment screen, an ambitious attempt to integrate most of the car’s functionalities into one centralized system.

The tech doesn’t end there. The AI fox assistant is a novel touch, aiming to redefine the human-machine interaction within a car. It attempts to personalize the driving experience, albeit with its seemingly limited functionalities at present.

However, the brand’s ambitious tech overhaul does present a hurdle. The integration of numerous controls into the central infotainment system makes for an overwhelming user experience. With some vital functionalities buried within layers of menus, the learning curve for a new user might be steeper than anticipated. Navigating this system while driving could be less than intuitive, potentially detracting from the overall driving experience.

Performance and Handling

Navigating the bustling landscape of electric vehicles, Smart has positioned the #1 with a keen focus on delivering commendable performance metrics. Its 268bhp electric motor, particularly for a brand historically known for its modest vehicles, paints a picture of unexpected vigour. This drive potency seamlessly integrates with the promise of range, ensuring that power does not compromise sustainability.

With a 62kWh battery at its core, the Smart #1 offers a spectrum of range possibilities, from 260 miles in its Pro+ variant to a slightly extended range for the Premium model. The Brabus edition, while being a powerhouse on wheels, does concede some of that range in its quest for speed and exhilaration.

Charging, an indispensable part of the EV experience, is handled competently by the Smart #1. While it meets the industry’s standards, an area of curiosity remains: how does the vehicle fare in real-world scenarios? Range and charging claims often deviate when subjected to everyday conditions, traffic, and driving habits.

Practicality

When exploring the Smart #1’s practicality, there’s a clear sense that the brand has attempted to move beyond its niche origins. Inside, passengers are treated to a roomy atmosphere, a feat considering Smart’s legacy of compact design. With generous headroom and legroom, both front and rear passengers are assured a comfortable journey.

The brand has also incorporated nifty storage solutions, maximizing the utility of available space within the car. The wide doors and adjustable seating configurations are thoughtful touches that add to the vehicle’s usability for daily tasks or longer trips.

However, where the Smart #1 seems to falter slightly is its boot space. For a vehicle positioning itself in the SUV category, the boot offers a modest 273 litres when rear seats are up. While the possibility to expand this space exists, it still doesn’t quite match some of its competitors in the segment. For families or individuals who often find themselves hauling luggage, sports equipment, or large shopping loads, this limitation might raise eyebrows.

Verdict

The Smart #1 marks a bold evolution for a brand traditionally linked with micro urban vehicles. With its entry into the electric SUV segment, it showcases a vision that seeks to blend Smart’s unique identity with the demands of modern drivers. On several fronts, such as design and performance, the vehicle shines, promising a fresh and invigorating driving experience.

However, it’s not without its shortcomings. Practicality, a pivotal factor for many SUV buyers, sees some compromises, especially in boot space. This could pose challenges for those who often find themselves needing more storage for their travels or day-to-day activities.

In conclusion, the Smart #1 is an ambitious step forward, encapsulating both the brand’s heritage and its aspirations. While it’s a commendable venture into the electric SUV realm, potential buyers should critically assess if the car’s offerings align with their specific needs and expectations. After all, every vehicle, no matter how innovative, has its trade-offs.