Review: 2024 smart#1 Premium – Not just a pretty face, it’s the smart choice if you want to buy an EV

Ah, the Smart#1 – it's not just a car; it's a statement. A statement that says, "Yes, I like electric vehicles, but I also appreciate the finer things in life, especially when it comes to design." This little gem zipped its way into Malaysia late last year, and it's turning heads for all the right reasons.

The Smart#1 not just smart by name, but by nature too.Yes you could opt for the sporty BRABUS variant or the entry level version the Pro, but the smart money is on the Premium variant. With all its dazzling features, it ensures you feel like you haven't settled for a diet Coke, but have indulged in the rich, full-flavor experience of a classic Coke.

In the Premium variant, compared to the Pro version, you're treated to an array of exclusive features that elevate your driving experience.

This upgrade includes a larger 66Kwh battery, faster charging times, Cybersparks LED and Matrix LED headlamps equipped with adaptive high beam (AHB) and auto headlamp leveling, ensuring optimum visibility and safety.

The sophistication extends to automatic front and rear sequential LED turn signals, an illuminated front grille, and door handles that add a touch of elegance. Additionally, the luminous side logo, welcoming lights, and side view mirror-mounted courtesy light warmly greet you upon approach.

The aesthetic appeal is heightened too by 19-inch rotor alloy wheels and a power tailgate with a kick sensor for effortless accessibility. While the BRABUS version incorporates all these enhancements, it goes a step further with the exclusive BRABUS aero bodykit and BRABUS wheels. 

Indeed, the BRABUS variant boasts an impressive aesthetic, though it's tailored more for those who prefer to make a bold statement. On the other hand, the Premium version, while more subtle, inevitably captures attention. The smart#1 distinguishes itself as a true head-turner, courtesy of its distinctive design that shines in a sea of electric vehicles. Its characterful appearance ensures it stands out, striking the perfect balance between elegance and uniqueness in the increasingly crowded EV market.

First Impressions: It's Like That One Person at the Party

You know the one – not too loud, not too quiet, but somehow, you can't take your eyes off them. The Smart#1 Premium Variant manages to strike a perfect balance between elegance and that cheeky flair we've come to love from the brand. With its sleek curvaceous lines and a stance that says, "I'm ready for adventure, but only if it's in style," this car is the embodiment of urban chic.

The design of this vehicle is infused with Mercedes-Benz's signature elegance, given its design origins. However, the creators have skillfully forged a unique identity for the car, setting it apart as a distinctive model in its own right. Even without prior knowledge of Mercedes-Benz's involvement, one might not immediately link the design to their influence, and that's a testament to its originality.

The design arguably surpasses that of any Mercedes-Benz EV currently on the market, striking a harmonious balance between playfulness and sophistication. A standout feature is the rear floating roof design near the C-pillar, showcasing exceptional design prowess and creativity.

The Drive: Like Butter on Toast

Driving the Smart#1 is an experience akin to spreading butter on warm toast – it's smooth, satisfying, and oh-so-effortless. The rear wheel drive electric motor's instant torque means you're zipping through traffic with the glee of a kid in a candy store, minus the sugar rush aftermath.

When you peek under the hood, (well you don’t need to cause there’s nothing there, not even a front trunk) you're not finding a traditional engine, but what you do find is impressive. The power output? A sprightly 272 PS that makes you question any ICE cars. And the sprint from 0-100 km/h? Hold onto your hats – or in this case, your sustainable coffee cups – because we're talking about a mere 6.7 seconds. Yes, it'll have you pinned to your seat, grinning like a Cheshire cat. There are faster accelerating EVS out there, but this is already enough to make your passengers squim.

And the handling? Let's just say although it does wollow a little bit, it's more glued to the road than your favourite pair of sneakers to your feet. Also because it’s a rear wheel drive vehicle, it’s quite predictable and you don’t get any of that torque steer like the EVs with front motors attached to the front axles.

Charging and range: Like an athlete that recovers fast naturally

The smart#1 not only stands out for its distinctive design but also in particular when it comes to charging capabilities and battery efficiency. With its 22kW AC charging capability, the smart#1 surges ahead of most EVs on the market, offering a faster and more efficient charging solution that significantly reduces downtime.

This feature is a game-changer for EV owners who value convenience and time, allowing for quicker top-ups and less time tethered to a charging station. Through its 22kw on board charger, the smart#1 can regenerate its electric juice from 10-80% SoC in three hours, that’s nearly half the time of most EVs. Who needs DC charging when you can charge this fast via AC. Speaking of DC, it supports 150kW DC charging which can take 10-80% Soc in 30 minutes.

The smart#1 Premium is equipped with a robust 66-kWh lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide battery, which, according to Smart, delivers an impressive driving range of up to 440 km on a full charge. In our experience, the vehicle comfortably provided us with a range of 404 km, a figure that's quite commendable especially given that we didn't hold back on enjoying a spirited driving session – essentially, we were zooming around without a care in the world.

In essence, the smart#1 emerges as a leader in its class, thanks to its superior 22kW AC charging capabilities. This might not be a topic that one might care about, but those who mainly charge their EVs at home, this rapid charging capability is particularly crucial for those with busy schedules or for situations where time is of the essence, effectively addressing one of the primary concerns associated with EV adoption—range anxiety.

Interior: Where tech meets tactile

Step inside, and you're greeted with what can only be described as the cockpit of the future – if the future had a penchant for comfort and minimalism that didn't skimp on style. The seats hug you like a long-lost friend, and the dashboard is clean and simple with the main 12.8-inch central touchscreen being the home for all your controls. There is a learning curve to find out how to control things such as side mirrors and other things via the touchscreen, but it is intuitive enough not to require a degree in rocket science to navigate.

The central touchscreen is responsive as your latest smartphone and it's a technophile's dream come true. Whether you're an Apple CarPlay aficionado or an Android Auto enthusiast, this car integrates with your digital life smoother than a hot knife through butter. And for the audiophiles, the sound system courtesy of 13 Beats audio speakers that turns the Smart#1 into a concert hall on wheels – just add your favorite tunes.

The meter cluster screen is no less impressive, coming in at 9.2 inches. Yes it does sound small, but it’s so cool, It's like sitting on the bridge of the Starship Enterprise, but instead of exploring the final frontier, you're navigating through rush hour with all the vital stats and navigation cues you need displayed in crisp clarity on a retro but advanced vehicle.

It's the little touches, though, that truly delight – like the meter cluster, storage compartments that seem to have been designed by someone who understands the value of a good handbag.

Tech-Savvy to a Fault

Speaking of tech, the Smart#1 doesn't just flirt with technology; it's in a committed relationship. From the seamless smartphone integration to the driver assistance features that make you feel like you have a co-pilot, this car is all about making life easier. And for those of us who have spent more time lost than Columbus, the on board navigation system is a godsend, as it can help you navigate through the plethora of chargers available these days.

The Verdict: Your Next Guilty Pleasure

So, is the Smart#1 Premium Variant worth the hype? In a word, yes. It's the kind of car that makes you look forward to your morning commute, not just for the envious glances from pedestrians, but for the sheer joy of driving it. Sure, it might not be the car for a family of five with a penchant for cross-country road trips as the boot is a bit small, but for the urban adventurer, the eco-conscious, or anyone who just loves a good drive and style, it's pretty much spot on.

In conclusion, the Smart#1 Premium Variant is more than just a car; it's a companion. It's the kind of vehicle that doesn't just get you from A to B, but makes the journey worthwhile. And in a world where we're all trying to make smarter choices, could there be a better companion for the road ahead?

smart#1 Premium Specifications

• Drivetrain: Single motor RWD
• Power output: 272 PS
• Torque: 343 Nm
• 0-100 km/h: 7 seconds
• Battery: 66 kWhNCM
• Range (WLTP): 404 km
• AC charging rate: 22 kW
• AC charging speed: 10-80% SoC in 3 hours
• DC charging rate: 150 kW
• DC charging speed: 10-80% SoC in 30 minutes
• Price: RM 219,000

Also Read:  Smart #1 EV launched in Malaysia, check full details