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Kia EV3 vs smart #1 comparison

Compare performance (204 HP vs 428 HP), boot space and price (30,800 £ vs 31,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Kia EV3 or smart #1?

Kia EV3 vs smart #1: Key differences

Kia EV3

4.7 (3 Reviews)
rate
  • very slightly cheaper
  • somewhat more efficient
  • markedly more electric range
  • noticeably more trunk space

smart #1

  • significantly more power
  • substantially quicker 0–100 km/h
  • marginally lighter

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

EV3

Kia EV3 vs. Smart #1: The Electric SUV Showdown

The automotive landscape is evolving rapidly, especially with the surge in electric vehicles (EVs). In this article, we delve into a detailed comparison between two remarkable contenders in the electric SUV sector: the Kia EV3 and the Smart #1. Both models offer unique features, technical specifications, and innovations that cater to different drivers' needs. Let's explore how they stack up against each other.

#1

Powertrain and Performance

Starting with the Kia EV3, this SUV is powered by a front-wheel-drive electric engine that delivers 204 HP (150 kW) and produces a torque of 283 Nm. The EV3 has an appealing acceleration from 0-100 km/h in about 7.5 to 7.9 seconds, depending on the variant. It boasts an impressive electric range of up to 605 km and a battery capacity ranging from 58.3 kWh to 81.4 kWh. Additionally, its energy consumption stands at an economical 14.9 to 16.2 kWh/100 km.

On the other hand, the Smart #1 takes performance to another level. It offers two power variants, with outputs of 272 HP (200 kW) and an exhilarating 428 HP (315 kW) in its most powerful configuration. The torque also significantly outshines the EV3, reaching up to 584 Nm. The Smart #1 can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in as little as 3.9 seconds for the highest variant, showcasing remarkable speed capabilities. Its electric range varies between 310 km and 440 km, depending on the battery pack used (ranging from 47 kWh to 62 kWh), with energy consumption rates from 16.8 to 18.2 kWh/100 km.

EV3

Dimensions and Design

In terms of dimensions, the Kia EV3 measures approximately 4300 mm in length, 1850 mm in width, and 1560 mm in height, providing a spacious cabin and cargo area with a trunk capacity of 460 liters. This makes it a practical choice for families or those needing extra storage space.

Conversely, the Smart #1 is slightly shorter, measuring 4270 mm in length and 1822 mm in width but stands taller at 1636 mm. Its trunk space, however, is smaller, offering between 313 liters and 323 liters, which may be a limiting factor for some users. Both vehicles have five doors and comfortably seat up to five passengers.

#1

Technology and Innovations

Both electric SUVs are well-equipped with advanced technologies that enhance driving experience and safety. The Kia EV3 features an intuitive infotainment system with a user-friendly interface, multiple connectivity options, and a range of driver-assistance features designed to augment safety and performance. It also comes with impressive battery management systems to optimize charging efficiency.

The Smart #1, on the other hand, doesn't shy away from innovation either. It boasts an advanced digital cockpit with a large touchscreen display, responsive navigation, and connectivity features, alongside a suite of AI-based assistive technologies that promote enhanced safety and convenience. Its Smart Drive feature adjusts driving dynamics based on real-time road conditions, ensuring a smoother ride.

EV3

Conclusion: Which EV is Right for You?

In conclusion, both the Kia EV3 and Smart #1 showcase remarkable advancements in electric vehicle technology. The Kia EV3 appeals with its range, spaciousness, and impressive battery capacity, making it an excellent option for families or long-distance drivers. The Smart #1, with its striking performance, innovative technology, and agile driving dynamics, caters to those seeking thrill and a fun-to-drive electric vehicle.

Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences. Whether it's the spaciousness and efficiency of the Kia EV3 or the exhilarating performance and advanced technology of the Smart #1, both models are paving the way for a sustainable automotive future.

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

EV3

Costs and Efficiency:

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

Kia EV3 is very slightly cheaper – starting at 30,800 £ , while the smart #1 costs 31,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 857 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the Kia EV3 is somewhat more efficient: consuming 14.9 kWh/100km compared to 16.8 kWh/100km for the smart #1. That’s a difference of about 1.9 kWh/100km.

As for electric range, the Kia EV3 offers markedly more range – reaching up to 605 km, about 165 km more than the smart #1.

#1

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the smart #1 offers significantly more power – delivering 428 HP compared to 204 HP. That’s roughly 224 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the smart #1 is substantially quicker – completing the sprint in 3.9 s, while the Kia EV3 takes 7.5 s. That’s about 3.6 s quicker.

Looking at top speed, the smart #1 is very slightly faster – reaching 180 km/h, while the Kia EV3 tops out at 170 km/h. The difference is around 10 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: the smart #1 delivers considerably more torque with 584 Nm compared to 283 Nm. That’s about 301 Nm more.

EV3

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 terms of curb weight, smart #1 is marginally lighter – 1,780 kg compared to 1,800 kg. The difference is around 20 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Kia EV3 offers noticeably more boot space – 460 L compared to 323 L. That’s a difference of about 137 L.

For maximum load capacity, the Kia EV3 offers noticeably more capacity – up to 1,251 L, about 265 L more than the smart #1.

Maximum payload is identical – both can carry up to 470 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The smart #1 is clearly superior overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £31,700
#1

smart #1

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 272 - 428 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 16.8 - 18.2 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range : 310 - 440 km
details
Kia EV3
smart #1

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Kia EV3

The Kia EV3 arrives as a cheeky, practical electric compact that manages to feel both premium and playful, delivering crisp handling and a roomy cabin that's perfect for urban life. With smart tech, friendly styling and sensible pricing, the EV3 is the kind of car that makes switching to electric feel like a no-brainer without asking you to give anything important up.

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Reviews Kia EV3

4.7 (3 Reviews)
rate
José
24 Dec 2025, 17:42:54

A good car for a small family. Easy and practical.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

smart #1

The Smart #1 feels like a breath of fresh air in the compact EV world, pairing playful styling with usable space and a cabin that punches above its size. It skips the fuss and delivers an easygoing, city-friendly driving experience with clever features that make it a sensible, slightly cheeky choice for everyday motoring.

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Reviews smart #1

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

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smart #1

Costs and Consumption
Price
30,800 - 41,700 £
Price
31,700 - 45,000 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
14.9 - 16.2 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
16.8 - 18.2 kWh/100km
Electric Range
436 - 605 km
Electric Range
310 - 440 km
Battery Capacity
58.3 - 81.4 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
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1,800 - 1,885 kg
Curb weight
1,780 - 1,900 kg
Trunk capacity
460 L
Trunk capacity
313 - 323 L
Length
4,300 - 4,310 mm
Length
4,270 - 4,300 mm
Width
1,850 mm
Width
1,822 mm
Height
1,560 - 1,570 mm
Height
1,636 mm
Max trunk capacity
1,251 L
Max trunk capacity
976 - 986 L
Payload
470 kg
Payload
425 - 470 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
204 HP
Power HP
272 - 428 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.5 - 7.9 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.9 - 6.7 s
Max Speed
170 km/h
Max Speed
180 km/h
Torque
283 Nm
Torque
343 - 584 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
150 kW
Power kW
200 - 315 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2,024
Model Year
2,023 - 2,024
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
Kia
Brand
smart
What drivetrain options does the Kia EV3 have?

The Kia EV3 is available as Front-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.