DRIVEN: SMART #1 BRABUS. HAS SMART BUILT THE SMALL ELECTRIC CAR WE’VE ALL BEEN WAITING FOR?

EV Channels Review

The smart #1 Brabus presents a compelling, albeit quirky, entry into the electric SUV market. The reviewer is impressed by its design, build quality, and the surprisingly refined driving dynamics, noting excellent steering, body control, and ride comfort despite its weight. The Brabus version, with its dual-motor AWD and 420 horsepower, offers blistering acceleration (0-62 mph in 3.9 seconds) and a unique, albeit somewhat gratuitous, "Brabus mode" with simulated engine noise. However, the reviewer points out that the infotainment system, while visually slick and powered by gaming-grade chipsets, can be confusing and lacks Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support in pre-production models. Practicality is also a mixed bag, with good passenger space but a relatively small boot and frunk. Despite its few shortcomings, particularly the infotainment and the Brabus mode's perceived pointlessness, the overall verdict is positive, highlighting the vehicle as a well-engineered, good-value proposition that marks a strong return for the smart brand.