smart #3 BRABUS Review: The Unique Hashtag

What we like:

Blistering pace

Balanced handling

More room than the #1

What we dislike:

Oddball looks

We loved driving the #1 BRABUS. It was a ball of energy and quite chuckable around corners. Among electric vehicles, it stands out for its sheer prowess, even if its speed and acceleration are a tad deranged.

But it might be a bit much for some, because it has a rather firm ride, not made any better by its short wheelbase. Here’s where the #3 BRABUS might come in very relevant.

It’s built on the same platform as the #1, but unlike the #1’s more traditional hatchback shape, the #3 goes for a crossover coupe look, not dissimilar to Hyundai’s IONIQ 6 but on stilts. It’s unique to say the least, even more of a niche than the Hyundai. The roofline is reminiscent of the swoopy Mercedes EQ saloon models, but the aerodynamic shape is a little incongruent with how high it sits from the ground. But I’d just put it down to an acquired taste.

At least the practical result of the design is a lot more interior space as well as a more usable boot. On this front, it’ll appeal to a lot more people than the #1.

It also rewards with a calmer ride. With a longer wheelbase, the #3 is a whole lot more bearable for the daily commute when you don’t really want to gun it. For this reason alone, the #3 BRABUS would convince many standing on the fence about its oddball shape.

Like the #1 BRABUS, the #3 BRABUS is blisteringly quick, and mind you, this is in comparison to even the fastest EVs out there. It does 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, but the way it's delivered is shocking. It’s the sort of acceleration that can momentarily disfigure faces. The 50:50 weight distribution helps it feel very neutral and composed, too. The car really lives up to its BRABUS badge in its ability to summon up crazy amounts of G forces.

Build quality is also rather good and feels more European than many competitors out there. There are headrests with the BRABUS logo, microfibre sports seats, a thin BRABUS steering wheel and alcantara slathered about. The infotainment system also looks fun and is responsive, although the lack of buttons can be a bit unnerving (like many other EVs today). However, it feels polished and properly finished, which justifies its asking price.

If you’re considering a car with a hashtag in its name, chances are you’re willing to try something different. In that case, the #3 BRABUS offers a good alternative to the #1 BRABUS, especially for families in a hurry.

Photos by James Wong

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