Design and Styling
The Smart #3, also known as the hashtag 3, is hitting the market soon. It joins the lineup of two new Smart models set to arrive next year, the other one being the slightly larger and more robust hashtag one. The hashtag 3 is marketed as a sleek and cool crossover that offers ample space. In terms of aesthetics, this particular model looks quite appealing, especially in the eye-catching shiny red paint. The Brabus version, which we will delve into shortly, adds a sportier touch to the overall design.
However, upon closer inspection, it becomes evident that the hashtag 3 borrows design cues from various other cars. The front end resembles that of a BYD, while the rear end has a hint of Mini Cooper. The roofline reminds me of the Hyundai Ionic 6. Although the styling is clean and sleek, it lacks that distinctiveness that one would associate with the Smart brand. It seems as though Smart is trying to distance itself from its reputation of producing tiny cars, but it’s uncertain if the hashtag 3 successfully conveys this evolution.
The Brabus Touch
Let’s talk about the Brabus version of the Smart #3. Brabus is known for injecting some magic into otherwise ordinary cars, and it seems they have attempted to do the same with the hashtag 3. This sporty variant carries the Brabus badge proudly and boasts a longer and lower profile compared to other models.
With its chunky plastic wheel arches and slightly increased ride height, the Brabus version aims to give off a subtle SUV vibe. The overall result is quite appealing, and the sporty touches add an extra dose of excitement to the hashtag 3. However, one can’t help but wonder if it’s enough to truly liven up the driver appeal of this car.
Roomy and Functional
Despite its sleek exterior, the Smart #3 manages to offer a surprising amount of interior space. The crossover design allows for ample headroom and legroom for both the driver and passengers. The smart utilization of space is evident through the smartly designed interior features.
The dashboard layout is simple and functional, with all the necessary controls within easy reach. The materials used in the cabin feel of decent quality, although some hard plastics can be found here and there. The seats provide adequate comfort for daily commutes, and the ample storage compartments ensure that your belongings stay organized.
Performance and Handling
Underneath the sleek exterior of the Smart #3 Brabus lies an equally competent powertrain. The Brabus version is equipped with an engine that delivers a decent amount of power and acceleration. It’s not a rocket on wheels, but it manages to hold its own on the road.
The handling of the hashtag 3 is precise and responsive, thanks to its well-tuned suspension system. Maneuvering through tight city streets is a breeze, and the compact size of the car allows for easy parking in cramped spaces. However, the ride quality might be a bit on the stiffer side, which could be a concern if you frequently encounter rough road surfaces.
A Final Verdict
In conclusion, the Smart #3 Brabus offers a stylish and functional crossover option for those who want a little extra excitement in their driving experience. Although its design lacks originality and fails to make a strong
Smart #3 Brabus Review: Is Brabus’ Touch Enough to Revitalize the Smart #3?
When it comes to the Smart #3 by Brabus, it’s hard to say whether it will catch your eye or simply blend in with the crowd of generic electric crossovers. Despite the presence of prominent Smart badging and a faux air intake, the design may not be enough to truly stand out. This particular version of the Smart #3 comes with 20-inch alloys, while the standard model is equipped with 19-inch wheels. It’s interesting to note that this vehicle shares its platform with the Volvo XC30, as Smart is now a joint venture between Mercedes, its long-time owner, and the Chinese car company Geely, which also owns Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, and other brands.
Under the hood, the Smart #3 Brabus is powered by the same battery and rear-wheel drive electric motor found in the Volvo XC30. However, the Brabus version also boasts a four-wheel drive system, thanks to an additional motor in the front. With over 420 horsepower at your disposal, this crossover can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds, easily outpacing some Porsches. It’s worth pondering the purpose of such incredible performance in a family-friendly crossover, but nevertheless, it demonstrates the capabilities of this vehicle.
The standard rear-wheel drive model of the Smart #3 Brabus is equipped with 272 horsepower and can reach 100 km/h in under 5 seconds, which is impressive in itself. This variant is more suited for those who prioritize a balance between power and practicality in their everyday driving experience.
Driving Dynamics and Features
When it comes to driving dynamics, the Smart #3 Brabus impresses with its agility and responsive handling. The additional power and four-wheel drive system certainly contribute to the overall driving experience, providing confident acceleration and enhanced traction on various road conditions. Whether you’re cruising on the highway or tackling tight city streets, the Smart #3 Brabus proves to be a nimble and enjoyable ride.
Inside the cabin, the Smart #3 Brabus offers a comfortable and well-appointed environment. The seating positions provide good visibility, and the materials used are of high quality, giving the interior a sense of refinement. The infotainment system is easy to navigate, and the various connectivity features add convenience and functionality to the overall driving experience.
Verdict: Is the Smart #3 Brabus Worth Considering?
Considering the Smart #3 Brabus means evaluating the balance between performance and practicality. While its impressive power figures and sporty design might initially seem incongruent with its purpose as a family-friendly crossover, this vehicle ultimately delivers an exciting driving experience alongside everyday usability. If you’re looking for a bit of magic to spice up your daily commute, the Smart #3 Brabus might just be the perfect fit.
Note: The content provided has been edited for clarity and coherence.
The Smart #3 Brabus: A Review of the Interior
The Smart #3 Brabus boasts an impressive acceleration rate of 8 seconds, which should be brisk enough for most drivers. However, what sets the Smart #3 apart from its competitors is its commitment to providing ample interior space. Let’s delve into the interior and see how it measures up.
A Distinctive Look
In the front of the Smart #3, you’ll notice the distinctive design that Smart has crafted. A standout feature is the 12.8-inch screen positioned in the center. This screen is available on all versions except the basic pro version. Additionally, the higher-spec versions offer a digital drivers display behind the wheel, which adds a touch of sophistication.
Enhanced Driver Experience
The inclusion of the digital drivers display is a welcome addition that greatly improves the overall driving experience. Gone are the days of glancing over to the side to check your speed or other vital information. With the display conveniently placed behind the wheel, distractions are minimized, resulting in a more focused and safe driving experience.
Practicality Meets Comfort
Moving on to the center console, it’s hard to ignore its resemblance to the console found in the old Mercedes-Benz C-Class. While this may be a cost-saving measure, it doesn’t detract from the overall appeal. Hidden beneath this console is a large storage area, perfect for stowing away handbags or backpacks. But the storage options don’t end there—there’s additional storage throughout the interior, including under the armrest and even a mobile phone charger. The inclusion of two USB points ensures that you’ll never have to worry about multiple devices running out of power.
A Well-Designed and Practical Interior
In conclusion, the Smart #3 Brabus impresses with its stylish interior and practicality. The inclusion of the digital drivers display enhances the overall driving experience, allowing for a safer and more enjoyable journey. Meanwhile, the abundance of storage options throughout the interior ensures that you can carry all your essentials with ease. All in all, Brabus has definitely worked its magic to liven up the Smart #3’s driver appeal.
Note: This article is based on the provided content and does not reflect personal opinions or experiences.
Big Door Bins but No Lining
One of the standout features of the Smart #3 Brabus is its generous door bins. They offer plenty of storage space for your belongings. However, there is a major drawback. The bins are not lined; they are simply bare plastic. This means that anything you put inside will rattle around incessantly while you’re driving. This can be incredibly annoying and detracts from the overall driving experience.
High Spec Brabus Features
Being a high-spec Brabus version, this model comes with some impressive features. One notable inclusion is the heads-up display, which provides important information without requiring you to take your eyes off the road. Additionally, the glass roof is a standard feature, even on the basic pro version. The front seats in the Brabus are not only heated but also ventilated, ensuring maximum comfort at all times. These seats are large and chunky, providing good support. The Brabus logo is stitched into the headrest, adding a touch of luxury to the interior.
Brabus: A Legacy of Power
Brabus has a long-standing reputation as a tuning company specializing in Mercedes cars. In the past, they were known for their ability to fit massively powerful engines into these vehicles, making them a rival to AMG. While Brabus is still an independent company, they now officially tune Bravos models, in addition to their unofficial work on Mercedes models. This expertise carries over into the Smart #3 Brabus, which benefits from their decades of experience in performance modification.
A Frustrating Touchscreen
Unfortunately, the touchscreen in the Smart #3 Brabus leaves much to be desired. It is incredibly irritating to use, ranking among the worst in recent memory. The menu layout is haphazard, making it difficult to find what you need quickly. While it may not be the worst touchscreen on the market, it falls far short of being great. Moreover, the constant bing bongs, warnings, and alerts only add to the frustration. They occur for every aspect of driving, whether it’s the lane you’re in, your speed, or the presence of a vehicle ahead. This constant bombardment of notifications can be overwhelming and distracting.
Smart #3 Brabus Review
The Distraction of Constant Notifications
It is constantly constantly telling you things um and, to be honest, it ends up being more of a distraction than anything else, you’re just constantly looking down at the screen or the one here looking trying to go. Why is it bing bonging at me? Now you can turn some of them off, but it’s exceedingly difficult to now. I know you shouldn’t really be turning off safety warnings and such like in an Ideal World. You wouldn’t, but the problem with this one is that it’s also wildly inaccurate several times today, the speed limiter warning has been completely inaccurate. Its told me I’ve been able to do 90 km an hour when I’ve actually been in a 60 kilomet an hour Zone. Its told me at one point when I was driving through a very small village with very narrow streets, that I was allowed to do 80 km an hour. So I don’t mind the systems reminding you to drive carefully, but they should be accurate and they should be. You know proper they should they should actually do their job properly, and this one really doesn’t. So I think you know. Perhaps a good option would be a large lump Hammer, so you could just knock the screen out when it gets a bit too frustrating.
Does the Promise of Space Hold True?
But, as I said earlier, smart making uh big promises about how much space is available uh in the hashtag 3. So let’s take a look in the back and see if that’s true or not, and the fact is that, yes, there is plenty of room here in the back of the hashtags I’ve got that seat set quite a long way back and yet loads and loads of Leg room plenty of headro: even though there’s the big glass roof there there’s a flat floor, so there’s room for your feet.
5 seconds is certainly impressive, but does it translate to a thrilling driving experience? Let’s find out.
Interior Comfort and Space
Stepping inside the Smart #3 Brabus, you’ll immediately notice that the middle seat is quite narrow. However, unlike some other cars, it doesn’t jerk you up too high, making it somewhat tolerable for short journeys. The armrest features two cup holders, which is a convenient addition. The door bins, air vents, USB slots, and storage space further enhance the interior’s functionality. It’s evident that Smart has delivered on its promise of ample interior space, surpassing even what the Ex30 offers despite sharing the same platform. While the Smart #3 Brabus may not be longer overall, it compensates for it with an impressive interior design.
Boot Space and Practicality
However, there is a trade-off, and it comes in the form of boot space. With only 370 liters of storage capacity, the Smart #3 Brabus falls a bit short in this aspect. Smart attempts to mitigate this issue with an adjustable boot floor, allowing you to store your charging cables underneath. There is also a small 15-liter compartment called the frankk, but its usability is limited to storing tiny and valuable items. While it may be useful to keep such belongings out of sight, it won’t serve much purpose for larger items or everyday storage needs.
The Driving Experience
Now, let’s delve into the driving experience of the Smart #3 Brabus, especially considering it is the sporty version in the lineup. Does it live up to the expectations set by its impressive 420 horsepower figure and the ability to go from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in just 3.5 seconds?
When you first take the Brabus for a spin, you’ll immediately notice the power under the hood. The acceleration is undoubtedly exhilarating, and the car effortlessly gathers speed. However, as you spend more time behind the wheel, a sense of perplexity may start to creep in. Yes, it’s undeniably fast, but does it offer the same level of engagement and connection with the road that its performance numbers suggest?
The Smart #3 Brabus possesses impressive power, but it lacks some of the finesse and feedback that you might expect from a car with such capabilities. The steering, while adequately weighted, doesn’t deliver the same level of precision that would truly elevate the driving experience. It occasionally feels disconnected, leaving you longing for a more engaging connection to the road.
In terms of handling, the Brabus performs admirably. It hugs the corners with confidence and exhibits minimal body roll, thanks to its well-tuned suspension. The brakes are also responsive and provide sufficient stopping power when needed.
It’s worth noting that the Smart #3 Brabus isn’t designed to be a track-ready sports car. Its primary intention is to infuse some sportiness into the Smart range, and in that regard, it succeeds. However, if you’re seeking a truly exhilarating and engaging driving experience, you may find yourself wanting more.
Performance and Handling
The Smart #3 Brabus claims to be an exciting and sporty version of its standard counterpart. However, upon closer examination, it becomes evident that its performance enhancements may not live up to the hype. While the steering, handling, and braking do feel slightly more dynamic, the difference is not as significant as one might expect. The Gap, in terms of overall performance, does not feel like that of a highly tuned performance car.
Straight Line Performance
Even though the Smart #3 Brabus boasts enough straight line performance to outpace a few supercars, it falls short when it comes to delivering a truly exhilarating driving experience. Take a glance at the background flying past at an incredibly fast pace, and you would assume that this car is a beast on the road. However, this seemingly impressive feature comes at a cost – it severely affects the car’s range.
Impact on Range
The standard Smart #3, equipped with a 66 kilowatt-hour battery, offers a range of approximately 455 km. Unfortunately, the Smart #3 Brabus sacrifices some of this range to deliver its increased performance. With an estimated range of around 400 km, this variant of the car loses the endurance that the standard model provides. Real-world usage suggests that the range may be even less than 400 km, given the average energy consumption of 26.2 kilowatt-hours per 100 km.
Alternative Options
For those seeking a less expensive alternative with a more limited range, the Smart #3 Pro may be a viable option. This basic version of the car is equipped with a cheaper lithium-iron-phosphate battery, similar to the one used in the Volvo EX30. While this battery provides a range of approximately 330 km on a full charge, it also comes with a more basic 7.4 kilowatt AC charging system. This combination of a cheaper battery and charging system allows the car to be offered at a lower price point, with Smart claiming that it costs around $5000 less to produce than the 66 kilowatt-hour version with a lithium-ion battery.
In conclusion, the Smart #3 Brabus may not live up to its promises of delivering a truly exhilarating driving experience. While it does offer some improvements in terms of performance and handling, these enhancements are not significant enough to transform the car into a highly tuned performance vehicle. Additionally, the increased speed comes at the expense of range, making it a trade-off that potential buyers need to carefully consider.
The Difference in Range and Charging
The Smart #3 Brabus offers a significant improvement in range compared to its predecessor. With a range of 455 um (unit of measurement) as opposed to the previous 330 um, it is clear that the new model has made great strides in this aspect. Additionally, the charging capabilities have also been enhanced.
When opting for the premium specification of the Smart #3 Brabus with the 66 KW battery, you gain access to 22 KW AC charging. This is similar to what you would find in Renault and Nissan models. The advantage of this is that it allows for quicker charging from Curbside ESB Chargers, effectively transforming them into fast chargers. In fact, with all 22 Kow obtained at once, you can go from 10 to 80 power in just 3 hours.
However, it is important to note that fast charging is not limited to this premium specification. The basic battery, known as the LFP battery in the Pro version, has the ability to charge at up to 130 KW on DC power. On the other hand, the larger 66 KW battery can charge at up to 150 KW on DC power. Both of these options allow for a rapid charge from 10 to 80 in just 30 minutes. Of course, this is dependent on finding a charger that can deliver such fast charging.
Standard Specifications
One of the highlights of the standard specification of the Smart #3 Brabus is the inclusion of certain premium features. The big glass roof, for example, comes as standard, providing an open and airy feel to the cabin. Heated seats are also included, which is a welcome addition, particularly during colder months.
Another standard feature is the big screen, which acts as the main interface for the vehicle. However, it is worth noting that while the basic Pro version does include the big screen, it does not come with the added benefit of the extra dris display. Instead, the instruments are moved onto the big screen. Alternatively, there is an optional heads-up display available. However, it is my personal opinion that having a proper screen directly in front of you, where you can easily glance your eyes down to check your speed and other information, is a much better option.
Overall, the standard specifications of the Smart #3 Brabus are impressive, offering a range of desirable features that enhance the driver’s experience.
Performance and Range
The Smart #3 Brabus version boasts impressive performance and range capabilities. With a 66 Kow hour battery, it lives up to its claims of a good range. During a full charge, it displayed 455 km on the meter. Even at 80% charge, which included driving through the stunning Mayorca mountains, it still showed 380 km available. These numbers indicate that the range is quite solid, especially considering the pleasant temperatures and the presence of a heat pump heating system in the premium and Brabus versions. This system allows for more economical use of both the air conditioning and cabin heating in extreme weather conditions.
Mechanical Decency
In terms of mechanical performance, the Smart #3 Brabus version is indeed decent. It handles well, maneuvering through twisty switchback corners with ease. The steering, although slightly numb, gets the job done. However, despite these positive aspects, the driving experience itself lacks excitement. It fails to captivate and engage the driver, which is a crucial aspect for many. While some may argue that most people do not crave an entertaining driving experience, it is still a desirable quality to have. In a similar situation, the Volvo EX30 feels more engaging to drive.
Is Brabus Magic Enough?
One may question whether the Brabus touch is enough to inject some much-needed liveliness into the Smart #3’s driving appeal. Unfortunately, it falls short. While the Brabus version does have its positive mechanical attributes, it still fails to provide the thrill and excitement that many drivers seek. The overall driving experience remains lackluster, leaving one yearning for more. It is evident that there is a disconnect between the potential of the Smart #3 Brabus and its actual delivery. Perhaps further enhancements and improvements are necessary to truly unleash the magic that Brabus promises.
Weighty and Struggles in Corners
The Smart #3 Brabus certainly has its strengths, but one glaring weakness is its weight. Despite being labeled as a compact car, there’s not much difference in weight between this model and cars weighing two tons. And this weight has a noticeable impact on the car’s performance in corners. While it initially grips the road well and turns in smoothly, it tends to push wide once you reach the apex. It’s not a brilliant handling experience; it’s just fine and competent. The car feels surefooted and stable on the motorway, offering a smooth and refined ride. However, there are some issues with the build quality inside the cabin. Over bumpy roads, annoying squeaks and rattles become evident. Hopefully, these concerns will be addressed in the final production cars.
Smart’s Struggle for Differentiation
The Smart #3 Brabus is making a comeback, but it still has a long way to go in setting itself apart from the competition. The Irish market, in particular, is flooded with electric crossovers of similar size and specifications. In the past, people used to buy Smart cars because they were something special and unique. Unfortunately, the previous model, the Smart 42, did not sell well in Ireland. It was considered too expensive for what it offered. The company itself admits that engineering the Smart 42 was just as costly as an Mercedes E Class, yet it had to be sold for a significantly lower price of around 12,000 to 13,000 euros at the time.
Smart #3 Brabus: A Step into the Mainstream
So you know Kel Su, but this is certainly a big step into the mainstream. The Smart #3 Brabus, with its little hashtag one, is here, but I’m not sure it’s doing enough to make itself stand out. It’s just a bit too middle of the road, a bit too safe, a bit too predictable, a bit too dull, if I’m honest.
Totally Competent Electric Transport
Sure, it’s fine. It’s totally competent, totally good, and totally smooth electric transport with good range. And what we hope, though not yet confirmed, is that it will come at a competitive price. But it just doesn’t shout smart, it just doesn’t do anything that says, “Hey, this is something different.”
A Missed Opportunity for Smart
This is something you should pay attention to. This is a better, more interesting way of doing things than what everybody else is at. And I think that’s something that smart really should be doing. Maybe if this car is a success, if the hashtag one is a success, maybe that gives smart the solid financial base to actually do something more interesting in the future.
Remember, the context of this review is all about the Smart #3 Brabus and whether it can liven up the driver appeal of the Smart #3. Despite being a step into the mainstream, it fails to truly stand out. It’s competent and smooth as an electric transport, but it lacks that X-factor. It fails to make a bold statement and showcase a unique and interesting way of doing things.
Maybe, just maybe, the success of this car and the hashtag one will provide smart with the stability it needs to break free from the ordinary. Perhaps in the future, we can expect something more captivating and innovative from the brand. But for now, the Smart #3 Brabus falls short in delivering the driver appeal that we had hoped for.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Smart #3 Brabus offers impressive power and acceleration, making it an exciting addition to the Smart lineup. Its interior provides ample space and functionality, while the adjustable boot floor attempts to address the limited storage capacity. However, when it comes to the driving experience, the Brabus falls slightly short. While it delivers on performance, it lacks the finesse and engagement that would