smart #3 Officially Bows Ahead Of 2024 European Debut

The Auto Shanghai 2023 show running this week sees the Geely-owned smart brand take centre stage to finally unveil the new smart #3 model. Unlike its earlier offering the #1, which was classified as a crossover SUV, the new #3 sees smart presenting a more striking coupe crossover styling instead.

Said design further highlights the smart #3 as a sportier version of the design philosophy produced exclusively by Mercedes-Benz's global design team whilst maintaining cutting-edge connectivity as the guiding concept for the model that’s position as a finer solution for future urban mobility.

According to Dirk Adelmann, smart’s CEO in Europe, “We are proud to finally present our first ever sports utility coupé, the all-new smart #3 to the world. As an all-electric pioneer smart is committed to uncompromising quality of experience and interactions.”

Unlike the #1, the new smart #3 presents a striking and sportier coupe crossover look.

The exec adds that the brand’s goal has always been to address the multifaceted and changing needs for mobility. “smart will keep on expanding its product family to offer a variety of cars that optimally suit different customer groups and lifestyles,” he adds further. 

The clever #3's design is characterised by seamless, fluid lines and athletic curves, which strive to improve its aerodynamic performance. The body is further enhanced by various details. Slimmer CyberSparks LED headlamps are combined with a striking "shark nose" and A-shape broad grill at the front. 

Furthermore, its conspicuous two-tone roof is hallmark trait that resembles a tightened bow on the sides, giving a smooth, attractive sporty fastback profile. The spoiler, C-pillar, and rear fender, in conjunction with the bumper, create a modern curvature, and taillights with pixelated elements also contribute to the premium sense. 

Like the #1, the new smart #3 presents a very upmarket cabin primed with premium amenities and tech.

Inside, the cockpit captures the sporting spirit within with circular curves reminiscent of turbine intakes, inserting voluminous features throughout a serene and attractive design. The curved dashboard flows into a high console that houses the central cockpit and a 12.8-inch elevated central screen.   

The combination of natural light from its signature halo roof and artificial illumination from multi-colored ambient lighting improves the bright and airy interior environment even further. The #3 has a more spacious interior due to its longer wheelbase. 

The #3’s Integrated headrests improve driving comfort and emphasise the sporty interior design idea. Meanwhile, the infotainment system, which includes a high-end Beats® 13 speaker sound system, compliments the avant-garde interior experience. 

Pictured here are the smart #3's Photon Orange Metallic and Electric Blue Matte paint schemes.

Although full details and specs weren’t released yet, we are able to confirm that the #3 would somewhat share similar range and performance numbers as the #1. It will even see a peppier BRABUS variant available too. This is based on the zoomed in focus on the infotainment unit where the BRABUS branding can be clearly seen, as well as an estimated range left of 415 KM. 

The smart #3 will be made available in some new and fascinating colours which includes a vivid Photon Orange Metallic exterior pictured, as well as a futuristic Electric Blue Matte hue. Also new is the vivid Brown interior.

Smart has announced that the #3 would go on sale in 2024, with an European launch at the IAA 2023 show in Frankfurt, Germany, slated for September this year. Rest assured, more details and specs will surface leading up to the model’s European debut later this year.