For most people, the Smart #1 Premium is good enough. It does everything an everyday car should do and do more because the battery can go farther. And the power on tap is more than enough to enjoy the #1. Yet, the Smart #1 Brabus exists, a spicier version for drivers who want power.
In case you didn’t know, Brabus a high-performance tuning company that specialises in all Mercedes-Benz vehicles. And since Smart was once fully-owned by Mercedes-Benz, now in partnership with Geely, it is only natural that Brabus has a hand in this.
Visually, it’s unmistakably a Brabus creation. The exterior is loaded with sporty cues like faux hood vents, a red-accented grille, body kit highlights, a rear spoiler, 19-inch alloy wheels, and bold red brake callipers.
Step inside, and the sporty theme continues. The flat-bottomed steering wheel, half-covered in Alcantara, proudly displays the Brabus name. The seats, draped in microfiber suede, feature Brabus’ signature “B” on the headrests, and the interior is adorned with red accents throughout, further emphasizing its athletic pedigree.
Despite all these touches, it doesn’t feel over the top. In fact, the sporty transformation is agreeable. It leans more toward the feel of a hot hatch rather than an SUV, which adds to its appeal. The minimalist interior complements the sporty vibe without feeling gimmicky.
The Alcantara steering wheel feels great, channelling that classic sports car sensation. But let’s be real, you’re not just here for the aesthetics. You’re here for the power.
With 315kW (428hp) and 543Nm of torque from dual electric motors driving all four wheels, the #1 Brabus rockets from 0-100kph in just 3.9 seconds. To tap into this power, you’ll need to engage Brabus mode, an exclusive feature of this model.
However, you won’t want to stay in this mode too long. While it boasts a range of 400km on paper, heavy use of the power will drain the battery quickly, much like how fuel consumption increases with aggressive driving in a combustion engine.
Charging is fast, thanks to its capability to go from 10% to 80% in around 30 minutes with the right charger. And trust me, you’ll want to keep it juiced up because this car is fun to drive.
The steering feels lively, even for an all-electric system. There’s a connection with the road, and the turn-ins are responsive and precise. Body roll is present – it is still a hefty 1,900kg vehicle – but the upgraded sports suspension helps keep it in check, providing a firm yet controlled ride, even on rough surfaces. It grips the road confidently, giving you a sense of assurance, especially at higher speeds or on twisty country roads.
The only letdown? The synthetic engine sounds. Options like “smart original” and “Classical” are available, but they just can’t replace the visceral roar of a combustion engine.
For a sub-RM250,000 EV, the Smart #1 Brabus delivers driving dynamics that rival, and perhaps even exceed, petrol-powered SUVs in its class. With instant torque, no uphill struggles, and the seamless acceleration that comes with the lack of a traditional gearbox, it’s a compelling alternative to the usual sporty SUVs.
Maybe it’s time to rethink what a performance SUV can be—consider the Smart #1 Brabus.
