@ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
@ smart Europe GmbH
VS

CUPRA Born vs smart #3 – Which model is better for everyday use?

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – CUPRA Born or smart #3?

Born @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

The automotive landscape is rapidly evolving, with electric vehicles (EVs) leading the charge towards sustainability. Two notable contenders in this arena are the CUPRA Born and the smart #3. While both brands boast cutting-edge technology and impressive electric performance, they cater to different preferences and styles. In this comparison, we will delve into their technical specifications, innovations, and features that make each vehicle unique.

#3 @ smart Europe GmbH

Design and Usability

The CUPRA Born is a hatchback that embodies a sporty visage, with sharp lines and an athletic stance that promises excitement behind the wheel. Measuring 4,324 mm in length, 1,809 mm in width, and 1,540 mm in height, it presents a compact yet dynamic appearance that enhances its agility.

On the other hand, the smart #3, classified as an SUV, caters to those seeking a more robust and spacious experience. Its dimensions of 4,400 mm in length, 1,844 mm in width, and 1,556 mm in height reflect a more commanding road presence. Despite the differences in body type, both models share a five-seat configuration, ensuring comfort for passengers.

Born @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Performance and Efficiency

Under the hood, the CUPRA Born delivers an exhilarating experience with power options ranging from 231 HP to a thrilling 326 HP. Its electric heart translates to impressive torque figures of up to 545 Nm. With a rear-wheel drive setup and an acceleration time of just 5.6 seconds from 0-100 km/h for the top variant, the Born is not just about good looks but performance too. It boasts an electric range of up to 555 km, courtesy of battery options between 60 kWh and 79 kWh, alongside an energy consumption of 14.9-15.9 kWh/100 km.

Meanwhile, the smart #3 offers two power variants up to 428 HP, partnered with an aggressive torque of up to 584 Nm. For thrill-seekers, the addition of an all-wheel-drive setup enhances handling capabilities, achieving a remarkable 0-100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds. With battery capacities of 47 kWh and 62 kWh, it features a max electric range of 455 km, with energy consumption slightly higher at 16.3-17.2 kWh/100 km.

#3 @ smart Europe GmbH

Technology and Innovations

When it comes to technological advancements, both cars shine in their own right. The CUPRA Born comes equipped with an intuitive infotainment system that integrates seamlessly with smartphones, offering cutting-edge connectivity features. The brand emphasizes performance-oriented settings, allowing drivers to personalize their driving experience extensively.

In contrast, the smart #3 focuses heavily on smart technologies and urban usability. It incorporates advanced driver assistance systems, making city driving less stressful and more intuitive. The vehicle is also designed for efficient charging, ensuring that urban dwellers can maximize their EV experience.

Born @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Interior and Comfort

The interiors of each vehicle reflect their design ethos. The CUPRA Born features sporty aesthetics with premium materials, presenting an engaging cockpit for enthusiasts. The trunk capacity of 385 L ensures ample storage space for daily needs, further enhancing its practicality.

Meanwhile, the smart #3 embraces a more utilitarian approach, with a trunk capacity of 370 L, still ensuring it meets the demands of a bustling lifestyle. Its cabin is designed for comfort and technology integration, providing an ergonomic environment for both drivers and passengers.

#3 @ smart Europe GmbH

Final Thoughts

The CUPRA Born and smart #3 cater to different tastes within the EV market. The Born stands out as a sporty hatchback with a focus on performance and driving dynamics, while the smart #3 excels in practicality and urban adaptability with its SUV stature. Ultimately, your choice will reflect your driving preferences, lifestyle, and the features that matter most to you in the transition to electric mobility.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Born @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

CUPRA Born has a barely noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 34700 £, while the smart #3 costs 34700 £. That’s a price difference of around 34 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the advantage goes to the CUPRA Born: with 14.90 kWh per 100 km, it’s minimal more efficient than the smart #3 with 16.30 kWh. That’s a difference of about 1.40 kWh.

As for range, the CUPRA Born performs evident better – achieving up to 594 km, about 139 km more than the smart #3.

#3 @ smart Europe GmbH

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the smart #3 has a noticeable edge – offering 428 HP compared to 326 HP. That’s roughly 102 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the smart #3 is decisively quicker – completing the sprint in 3.70 s, while the CUPRA Born takes 5.60 s. That’s about 1.90 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the CUPRA Born performs slight better – reaching 200 km/h, while the smart #3 tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 20 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: smart #3 pulls minimal stronger with 584 Nm compared to 545 Nm. That’s about 39 Nm difference.

Born @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, smart #3 is slight lighter – 1780 kg compared to 1828 kg. The difference is around 48 kg.

In terms of boot space, the CUPRA Born offers hardly perceptible more room – 385 L compared to 370 L. That’s a difference of about 15 L.

In maximum load capacity, the CUPRA Born performs barely noticeable better – up to 1267 L, which is about 107 L more than the smart #3.

When it comes to payload, CUPRA Born minimal takes the win – 452 kg compared to 450 kg. That’s a difference of about 2 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the smart #3 shows itself to be edges ahead and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £34,700
#3 @ smart Europe GmbH

smart #3

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 272 - 428 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 16.3 - 17.6 kWh
  • Electric Range : 325 - 455 km

CUPRA Born

The CUPRA Born blends sharp, athletic styling with a playful electric character, delivering hatchback agility and hot-hatch attitude whether you're darting through the city or cruising the open road. Inside, the cabin punches above its weight with smart materials and practical space, making it a compelling pick for buyers who want electric motoring without surrendering the grin.

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smart #3

5 (1)
rate

The Smart #3 represents a bold evolution in urban mobility, merging sleek design with sustainability. This compact electric SUV boasts a modern silhouette and advanced technology features that make city driving both efficient and enjoyable. With its spacious interior and innovative connectivity options, the Smart #3 is poised to redefine the expectations for eco-friendly urban transport.

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CUPRA Born
smart #3
Born @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
#3 @ smart Europe GmbH

Costs and Consumption

Price
34700 - 45300 £
Price
34700 - 45800 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
14.9 - 16 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
16.3 - 17.6 kWh
Electric Range
427 - 594 km
Electric Range
325 - 455 km
Battery Capacity
60 - 79 kWh
Battery Capacity
47 - 62 kWh
co2
0 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1828 - 1999 kg
Curb weight
1780 - 1910 kg
Trunk capacity
385 L
Trunk capacity
370 L
Length
4324 mm
Length
4400 mm
Width
1809 mm
Width
1844 mm
Height
1540 mm
Height
1556 mm
Max trunk capacity
1267 L
Max trunk capacity
1160 L
Payload
431 - 452 kg
Payload
419 - 450 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
204 - 326 HP
Power HP
272 - 428 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.6 - 7.7 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.7 - 5.8 s
Max Speed
160 - 200 km/h
Max Speed
180 km/h
Torque
265 - 545 Nm
Torque
343 - 584 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
150 - 240 kW
Power kW
200 - 315 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
-

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2023 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
CUPRA
Brand
smart
What drivetrain options does the CUPRA Born have?

The CUPRA Born is available as Rear-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.