Overview
The Smart #1 marks a radical transformation for the Smart brand, shifting from tiny urban microcars to a fully electric compact crossover. Developed as a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz, who handled the design, and Geely, who provided the underlying Sustainable Experience Architecture, the #1 targets buyers seeking a premium, stylish small SUV. Positioned directly against competitors like the Volvo EX30, Cupra Born, and BYD Dolphin, it offers distinctive design, high equipment levels, and strong performance in a family-friendly package.
Design
Mercedes-Benz's design team gave the #1 a rounded, smooth silhouette characterized by clean surfaces and aerodynamic efficiency. Key highlights include full-width LED light bars at both the front and rear, flush door handles that extend automatically, and a floating roof effect created by a contrasting roof panel. Frameless doors move it slightly upmarket, while aerodynamic alloy wheels ranging from 18 to 20 inches help maintain a drag coefficient of 0.29. The high beltline and chunky SUV proportions give it a confident road presence without feeling overly aggressive.
Interior
Inside, the cabin features a modern, minimalist layout dominated by a high-mounted floating centre console that creates a cockpit-like feel for the front passengers. Material quality is strong, with soft-touch plastics, leatherette trims, and ambient lighting with 64 customizable colours. Tech is centered around a 12.3-inch floating touchscreen running a snappy infotainment system complete with a 3D fox avatar that acts as an AI voice assistant. Drivers get a slim 9.2-inch digital instrument cluster alongside an available 10-inch head-up display. Physical controls are minimal, meaning climate control and vehicle settings are primarily accessed via the central screen.
Performance & Powertrains
Standard RWD models feature a single electric motor producing 272 hp and 343 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-62 mph sprint in 6.7 seconds. The entry-level Pro trim uses a 49kWh LFP battery offering up to 193 miles of range, while Pro+, Premium, and Launch Edition variants feature a larger 66kWh NCM battery delivering up to 273 miles of range. Single-motor variants support 150 kW DC rapid charging (130 kW on the smaller battery), taking the battery from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes.
Practicality
Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the dedicated EV platform provides a long wheelbase that translates into generous rear legroom and headroom for adult passengers. The rear seats slide forward and backward by up to 13 cm to prioritize either rear passenger legroom or boot volume, and feature a 60:40 split. With the rear seats fully back, boot capacity stands at 313 litres, extending to 411 litres when slid forward, and 986 litres with the seats folded flat. Up front, a small 15-litre frunk under the bonnet offers convenient storage for charging cables. Cabin storage includes large door bins, a deep central armrest box, and a covered tray beneath the floating console.
Buying
The Smart #1 lineup starts with the entry-level Pro trim at £31,950, moving up to the Pro+ at £35,950, and topping out at the Premium trim at £38,950. Standard equipment across the range is generous, including panoramic glass roofs, adaptive cruise control, 360° cameras, and heated front seats. The step up to Premium adds a Beats sound system, Matrix LED headlights, heat pump, and 22 kW AC charging. The EV Hub recommended configuration is the Premium with the 66 kWh battery, which delivers the ideal balance of the maximum 273-mile range, faster AC charging, enhanced efficiency via the heat pump, and a rich standard feature set.