Smart #1 2024 Review

As the demand for compact electric SUVs in the Malaysian market gradually increases, B-Segment EVs have become the first choice for many families and young consumers. With a price of RM 169,000, the 2024 Smart #1 Pro enters the market aiming to strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and performance, featuring a rear-wheel-drive layout, a robust 272PS power, and a full range of standard intelligent safety features. The main goal of this test drive is to verify whether this entry-level model can meet daily commuting needs while retaining the refinement of the Smart brand, offering a practical option for budget-conscious consumers.

The exterior of the Smart #1 Pro continues the family-style rounded design, with smooth and dynamic lines. The front face adopts a closed grille paired with a through-type LED daytime running light, while the split LED headlights on both sides are sharp in shape and highly recognizable when lit. On the sides, the floating roof and hidden door handles enhance the sense of technology. The 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels paired with 235/45 R19 tires create a stable visual effect. At the rear, the through-type LED taillights echo the design of the front face, and the rear diffuser-style bumper adds a sporty touch. In terms of details, the front radar, rear parking radar, and 360-degree parking camera system are all discreetly hidden, maintaining the sleek overall appearance of the body.

Inside, the Smart #1 Pro's interior follows a simple design theme. The center console is wrapped in soft-touch materials, accented with silver trims, which provide a quality feel that matches its price range. The 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment display serves as the core of the interior, featuring a clear interface layout and supporting Bluetooth, CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity with good operational smoothness. The full LCD instrument panel offers rich information, including vehicle speed, remaining range, and driving modes, and can be linked to the infotainment screen. In terms of features, the front seats support electric adjustment, and the rear row is equipped with independent air conditioning vents and USB ports, delivering strong practicality. Storage space is average, with the front central armrest compartment and door storage pockets accommodating daily small items. The trunk offers a capacity of 411 liters, and the rear seats can be folded down in a 60:40 split to accommodate large items.

In terms of performance, the Smart #1 Pro is equipped with a rear-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor that delivers a maximum power output of 200kW (272PS) and a peak torque of 343N·m, enabling an official 0-100km/h acceleration time of 6.7 seconds. During real-world driving, the power response is swift during takeoff, with a noticeable push-back effect upon slight acceleration. While mid-to-high range acceleration isn't as pronounced as the initial burst, it still provides adequate confidence when overtaking. The driving modes include Eco, Comfort, and Sport, with significant differences in power output for each: Eco mode provides modest power for daily commutes, while Sport mode unleashes power more directly, making it suitable for scenarios where driving enjoyment is a priority.

Regarding the chassis, the combination of front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent suspension demonstrates solid performance when dealing with urban bumpy roads. The suspension effectively filters fine vibrations, keeping the vehicle stable. During high-speed cornering, the body roll is kept within a reasonable range, while the rear-wheel-drive layout offers good steering precision, and the steering wheel has minimal play, providing sufficient confidence to the driver. The braking system responds linearly with evenly distributed braking force, ensuring comfortable deceleration during daily driving.

In terms of range and energy consumption, the Smart #1 Pro is equipped with a 49kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, with an official pure electric range of 315km. In actual tests, the energy consumption on urban roads (air conditioning set to 24°C) is approximately 16kWh/100km, with a range achievement rate of about 85%; on highways (at around 110km/h), the energy consumption rises to 19kWh/100km, with a range achievement rate of about 75%. Overall, its performance aligns with the mainstream levels of compact EVs. The energy recovery system offers three adjustable levels, with the highest level providing a noticeable drag when the accelerator is released, effectively enhancing range. The lowest level resembles the coasting sensation of a fuel car, catering to different driving habits.

In terms of driving comfort, the Smart #1 Pro performs well in NVH control. At speeds below 60km/h, cabin noise mainly comes from the tires, and wind noise slightly increases during high-speed driving but remains within an acceptable range. The seat padding is of moderate firmness, with good support in the front seats, making long drives less tiring. The rear seats offer generous legroom due to the 2750mm wheelbase, providing a knee space of two fists for passengers with a height of 175cm, as well as sufficient headroom.

Overall, the key advantages of the 2024 Smart #1 Pro include its relatively strong power performance within the same price range, standard configuration of 7 airbags and intelligent driving assistance systems across all models, as well as a relatively spacious interior. Compared to peers like the BYD Atto 3 Standard Range (RM 149,800), the Smart #1 Pro offers stronger performance and a more comprehensive configuration, albeit at a slightly higher price. Compared to the MG ZS EV Standard (RM 159,888), it has better acceleration and higher brand recognition.

This car is suitable for families that value power and safety features, as well as young consumers who need daily commuting and occasional short trips. Its compact size makes it convenient for urban parking, while the rear-wheel-drive layout and strong power can satisfy certain driving pleasure needs. However, if the daily driving mileage is relatively long, the 315km range may require frequent charging. Consumers are advised to choose based on their own usage scenarios.

In summary, the 2024 Smart #1 Pro is a compact electric SUV that offers a balance of performance, configuration, and practicality. At the RM 170,000 price segment, it provides a fairly balanced performance, making it a practical choice for consumers with limited budgets who still seek quality and power.