Originally born from a partnership between Mercedes-Benz and Swiss watch industry leader Swatch, Smart once enjoyed a strong following, particularly among young drivers in the Chinese market, thanks to its economic efficiency, compact design, and easy maneuverability. However, Smart faced challenges that eventually led to Mercedes-Benz seeking new ownership. Geely, a prominent Chinese automaker, seized the opportunity, resulting in Smart's global headquarters relocating to Ningbo, China. With the combined strength of Mercedes-Benz's expertise and Geely's aspirations, the Smart #1 was unveiled as an alluring electric SUV, targeting female consumers and generating significant buzz. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the Smart #1, offering an in-depth analysis of both its interior and exterior, along with its pros and cons.
Exterior:
Pros:
1. Mercedes-Benz-Infused Stylish Design: The Smart #1's exterior design bears the unmistakable influence of Mercedes-Benz's renowned design team. Benefitting from this prestigious association, the Smart #1 presents an undeniably stylish visage. The front end features gracefully rounded lines, a striking chrome-accented grille, and triangular-shaped vents with distinctive triangular headlights. These design elements ensure high recognizability. The rounded contours add a touch of charm, setting it apart from competitors.
2. Dual-Tone Roof and Modern Details: Smart #1 embraces the dual-tone roof design trend, creating a floating roof effect. With concealed door handles and frameless doors, the SUV adheres to contemporary design aesthetics, making it highly appealing to the fashion-conscious consumer.
3. Consistent Styling from Front to Rear: The Smart #1's rear design complements its front end, and the taillights mirror the aesthetics of the headlights. This symmetrical design approach contributes to the overall appeal of the vehicle.
Interior:
Pros:
1. Contemporary and Minimalist Interior: Upon entering the Smart #1, you'll find an interior that masterfully balances modern aesthetics with minimalist design principles. The cabin showcases a harmonious black-and-white color scheme, enhanced by customizable 64-color ambient lighting. Craftsmanship inside is impeccable, and the interior avoids excessive clutter. The dashboard features a 9.2-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a centrally positioned 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The three-spoke steering wheel not only looks great but also feels comfortable in hand.
2. Innovative Infotainment: Smart #1's infotainment system stands out as a highlight. The centerpiece of the system is the "Smart Sense Planet," modeled after Earth, offering an innovative approach to in-car entertainment. Developed with a game engine, the infotainment system introduces a geometric, low-poly UI style. The voice assistant, presented as an avatar in the form of a small fox, adds a playful touch to the user experience.
3. Thoughtful Features and Configurations: The Smart #1 boasts a comprehensive list of features, including seat memory, advanced driver assistance systems, 23 high-precision sensors, battery preconditioning, remote start, Bluetooth key, and more. The attention to detail in both design and features is evident throughout the interior.
Cons:
1. Entry-Level Model Lacks Features: The base model of the Smart #1 leaves much to be desired in terms of features. It lacks several advanced functionalities present in higher trim levels, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, automatic parking, adaptive headlights, and even a rearview camera. These omissions diminish the Smart #1's overall value proposition, especially considering its relatively high starting price.
2. Limited Cargo Space: Despite offering ample rear passenger space, the Smart #1 falls short in terms of cargo capacity. The trunk's shallow depth is suitable for backpacks or a few pieces of luggage at best. For larger cargo loads, folding down the rear seats becomes a necessity, which might not be ideal for those with substantial hauling needs.
Conclusion:
The Smart #1 is a compelling offering that combines style with electric efficiency, benefiting from Mercedes-Benz's design sensibilities. Its exterior design, shaped under the watchful eye of Mercedes-Benz, highlights the SUV's unique charm. The interior is a masterclass in contemporary minimalism, with thoughtful features and innovative infotainment.
However, the Smart #1 faces challenges, particularly in its base model, where critical features are absent despite its premium pricing. Moreover, there's a perceived disconnect between the Smart brand and its price tag, given its association with Geely rather than Mercedes-Benz. Nonetheless, for those captivated by its distinctive styling and heritage, the Smart #1 might find a special place in their hearts, albeit at a premium cost. The question remains: is the allure of the Smart badge sufficient to justify the price? Ultimately, the Smart #1's appeal may vary based on individual preferences and priorities, with some buyers willing to pay for its unique blend of style and design prowess.