Introducing the new smart #3, the latest addition to smart’s growing SUV lineup. Built on the same platform as the #1, it shares a nearly identical interior and utilises the same range of batteries and electric motors. However, today we're focusing on the BRABUS trim, which not only packs a serious punch in terms of power but also features some refined design and interior enhancements that set it apart.

Performance

The smart #3 BRABUS shares the same 66kWh battery found in the Pro+, Premium, and 25th Anniversary Edition models, but it adds an extra electric motor to the front axle, transforming it into an all-wheel-drive powerhouse. This enhancement bumps the power output from 268bhp to an impressive 428bhp, allowing the car to sprint from 0-100km/h in just 3.7 seconds. With a torque figure of 543Nm, it packs an impressive punch, especially for a car of its size.

While it retains the familiar Eco, Comfort, and Sport driving modes, the BRABUS edition introduces a unique mode that takes things up a notch. The “BRABUS” mode tweaks the steering for a more engaging experience and includes a launch control feature dubbed ‘Rocket Launch.’ It even offers a synthetic engine sound that can be customised or turned off entirely, depending on your preference. Although the standard #3's steering can feel somewhat detached, the BRABUS mode adds a noticeable improvement. The steering gains weight and responsiveness, enhancing your connection to the car, particularly on winding roads. It’s not perfect, but it’s a significant step up, making the drive more enjoyable.

Out on the road, the #3 BRABUS delivers a more refined experience than the smaller #1, with its increased size contributing to greater comfort on longer trips. The handling is impressively sharp when entering corners, allowing you to confidently maintain your line thanks to the ample grip, even though the tires remain the same width as those on the standard model.

Range and Charging

All that power does come with a trade-off in range. The BRABUS version offers an official range of up to 415 kilometres (WLTP) from its 66kWh lithium-ion battery, which is slightly less than the 455km you get with the single-motor versions of the #3. How efficiently the BRABUS uses its battery largely depends on your driving style, making good use of all that power will give you a real range of something closer to 360 km

When it comes to charging, the BRABUS is equipped with standard 22kW AC charging capability and supports fast charging up to 150kW, allowing for a 10-80% recharge in about 30 minutes.

Design and Interior

The exterior of the smart #3 BRABUS doesn’t change much from its standard counterparts. The most noticeable clue is a small additional air intake on the edge of the bonnet, exclusive to the BRABUS model. You’ll also find modest BRABUS badges on the edges of all sides of the car and a switch to 20-inch alloy wheels instead of the standard 19-inch rims.

Inside, the BRABUS influence is more apparent. The cabin features prominent BRABUS 'B' logos stitched into the headrests of the sporty high-bucket seats, and another BRABUS logo adorns the steering wheel, which also includes Alcantara trim. The interior is further enhanced with red seatbelts and black microfibre upholstery accented by red contrast stitching. The high centre console houses a covered, chilled storage compartment, two cupholders, and a wireless smartphone charging pad, with additional storage space underneath. The audio experience is elevated by a Beats stereo system, complete with backlit tweeters integrated into the A-pillars. The tech setup also includes a 12.8-inch infotainment screen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

In the rear, passengers will find ample legroom and headroom, making the back seats surprisingly spacious for a car of this size. However, the boot is on the smaller side, offering 370 litres of capacity—similar to a Volkswagen ID.3—and there’s also a modest 15-litre 'frunk' at the front for additional storage.

Cost Considerations

The smart #3 BRABUS is priced at €56,500, which isn’t a significant leap from the #1 BRABUS, starting at €54,170. If you're drawn to the sleek design of the smart #3 but aren't too concerned about the extra power of the BRABUS trim, the entry-level Pro trim offers a more budget-friendly option, starting at €38,777.

Beyond the obvious boost in power, the BRABUS version brings a few key upgrades. These include heated and electrically adjustable bucket seats, a premium Beats stereo system, a larger 12.8-inch touchscreen, and 20-inch alloy wheels. You'll also get additional driving modes and a few BRABUS ‘B’ logos scattered throughout the vehicle, all designed to enhance the overall driving experience.

Conclusion

The smart #3 BRABUS is a seriously quick hot hatch, and when you’re in the right driving mode on the right road, it’s far more entertaining than the standard #3. Naturally, it comes at a higher price and with about 40km less range, but it feels like a more polished and complete package compared to the BRABUS version of the #1.