Smart move: New #3 Brabus chooses Continental as standard

Smart’s spiced-up #3 gets all-wheel drive, 422 bhp, and up to 258 miles of range. Find out how the EcoContact 6Q’s combination of grip and efficiency, makes it all possible.

Meet the all-new Smart #3 Brabus. Designed to compete with the likes of Audi’s Q4 e-tron Sportback and Kia’s EV6, this sporty all-electric SUV Coupe joins a segment that’s clearly in vogue. Now, with special treatment from renowned Mercedes tuner Brabus, find out how the #3 stacks up against the class leaders. 

A closer look at the Smart #3 Brabus 

Much like the regular #3, the Brabus boasts a striking exterior design characterised by sharp lines, a sloping roofline, and an aggressive front fascia. This sporty aesthetic is further enhanced by 20-inch alloy wheels, vivid paint schemes, and an additional bonnet vent — giving a commanding presence on the road. Compared to its predecessor, the Smart #2, the #3 looks significantly more modern and aerodynamic, while this Brabus addition further ups the ante.

However, the uprated internals are the real star of the show. Adding an extra motor to the front axle allows the Brabus to deploy its 422 bhp with ruthless efficiency. That means 0-60 mph in an incredible 3.7 seconds — just a tenth shy of Volvo’s ballistic EX30 — while the top speed is presumably pegged at 112 mph due to safety and regulatory constraints. 

Inside, the Smart #3 Brabus offers a premium and tech-packed experience. A large 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system takes centre stage, while a digital instrument cluster provides all the info you’d ever need. As for the quality, there’s plenty of premium materials to impress your passengers, while the supportive seats should keep backache at bay.

The tyre advantage 

The Smart #3 Brabus comes equipped with Continental EcoContact 6 Q tyres, specifically engineered to enhance the vehicle's efficiency and driving dynamics. Prioritising low rolling resistance, they directly translate to improved electric range – crucial for high performance EVs like the #3 Brabus. Additionally, the tyres are designed to minimise road noise, ensuring a serene and comfortable driving experience. Most importantly, though, the EcoContact 6 Q's focus on grip and handling complements the #3 Brabus' ferocious powertrain, offering greater confidence and control on both dry and wet roads. 

If the Smart #3 Brabus and Continental EcoContact 6Q sound like a winning combo, you’ll be interested to hear that prices start from £43,495. While hardly bargain basement, that figure does mean the #3 is notably cheaper than Kia’s all-wheel drive EV6, Audi’s Q4 e-tron Sportback, and Volvo’s top rung EX30.  

Do you think the Brabus’ blend of performance, style, and efficiency, make it a compelling choice in this crowded market? Let us know your thoughts.

Hero image credit: Continental