Akmal Azhar
The Smart #3 Brabus marks a bold new chapter for the Smart brand, combining aggressive styling with serious performance and high-end technology. Once known for its compact city cars, Smart—now co-developed by Geely and Mercedes-Benz—ventures into the EV coupe-SUV segment with a vehicle that doesn’t just look fast, but delivers explosive power to match its appearance.
Electrifying Performance and Drive
Underneath its sculpted hood, the Smart #3 Brabus houses a dual-motor, all-wheel drive system producing 422 horsepower and 543 Nm of torque. This electric powertrain propels the car from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds, rivaling performance EVs from Tesla and Volvo. A dedicated “Rocket Launch” mode unleashes its full potential for maximum acceleration thrills. Top speed is electronically capped at around 180 km/h, suitable for most spirited road use. The 66 kWh battery delivers a WLTP-rated range of up to 415 kilometers, though real-world driving typically returns around 350 to 370 kilometers depending on conditions and driving style.
Charging Convenience for Daily Use
Charging infrastructure is well supported with 150 kW DC fast-charging, allowing a 10 to 80 percent top-up in approximately 30 minutes. For home or workplace use, the vehicle supports 22 kW AC charging, making it ideal for overnight replenishment. This level of charging flexibility ensures that the Smart #3 Brabus suits both urban commuters and longer weekend drives.
Dynamic Styling That Screams Brabus
Design-wise, the Brabus version of the Smart #3 immediately sets itself apart. It boasts exclusive Brabus design elements such as a sportier front fascia, rear diffuser, larger wheels with red brake calipers, and distinctive badging.
A lowered suspension enhances its stance and improves high-speed stability. The two-tone body color combinations with matte finishes add a sense of visual aggression, fitting for a car in the performance EV category.
Sporty and Sophisticated Interior
Inside, the cabin is a blend of futuristic tech and Brabus-influenced luxury. Red stitching, ventilated suede-like seats, and sporty details throughout give the interior a distinctly premium feel.
A 12.8-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard, supported by a 9.2-inch digital instrument panel and a 10.25-inch head-up display for easy driving data visibility. The Beats premium audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and ambient lighting further enhance the high-end experience. Comfort features include heated and cooled seats with memory function, adding to its premium SUV credentials.
A Ride Designed for Both Fun and Flaws
On the road, the Smart #3 Brabus feels planted and powerful. Acceleration is instantaneous, and the lowered ride height lends confidence during high-speed maneuvers. However, steering feedback is somewhat muted, which may disappoint enthusiasts expecting precision. Tyre grip on the standard Continental EcoContact rubber is adequate, though under hard cornering it can struggle to match the power on tap. Regenerative braking comes in four levels, including a near one-pedal driving mode, though transitions between braking and coasting can sometimes feel abrupt or inconsistent.
Technology and Driver Assistance
The Smart #3 Brabus is packed with advanced driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and automated parking. A 360-degree camera system and Smart Pilot Assist suite make city driving more manageable. However, several users have noted that the infotainment system can be overly reliant on touch controls, and the vehicle occasionally emits distracting alerts for speed limit warnings or driver attention reminders. These quirks slightly detract from an otherwise impressive tech offering.
Pricing and Ownership in Malaysia
In Malaysia, the Smart #3 Brabus is priced at RM255,000. This places it competitively among high-performance EVs in the market, offering more flair and exclusivity than the Tesla Model Y Performance or Volvo EX30 Dual Motor. Warranty coverage includes four years unlimited mileage for the vehicle, eight years or 200,000 km for the battery, and additional coverage for major EV components, providing peace of mind to potential owners.
Conclusion: A Stylish Electric Powerhouse With a Few Trade-offs
The Smart #3 Brabus is more than just a sporty upgrade—it’s a full reinvention of what the Smart brand can be. With sharp styling, explosive electric performance, and a premium cabin loaded with tech, it appeals to those who want a high-performance EV with personality and distinction. While its overly sensitive driver aids and lack of tactile steering feedback may not suit every driver, its sheer presence and acceleration make it a thrilling daily companion. For drivers in Malaysia and beyond seeking standout performance in a compact, urban-friendly SUV form, the Smart #3 Brabus offers a unique and head-turning option.
Yusri Ng
Zakirin
