Model Details
smart #3 vs Volkswagen ID.5, we’re putting these two electric SUVs together to see who comes out on top.
The smart #3 is an all-electric compact SUV designed to offer an urban-friendly driving experience with a modern twist.
Building on the legacy of its predecessor, the smart #1, the #3 model boasts an enhanced battery capacity, advanced features, and a refined aesthetic aimed at tech-savvy city dwellers.
The Volkswagen ID.5 is a sleek, all-electric SUV that combines the practicality of an SUV with the aerodynamic profile of a coupe.
Part of Volkswagen’s expanding ID family, the ID.5 shares its platform with the ID.4 but distinguishes itself with a more aggressive design and additional luxury features.
It represents Volkswagen’s push towards an electrified future, offering a balance of performance, range, and comfort.
Design and Interior
The smart #3 showcases a minimalist yet futuristic design, characterized by smooth lines and a compact footprint ideal for urban environments.
The interior follows a similar philosophy, with a clean and intuitive layout. High-quality materials and customizable ambient lighting create a comfortable atmosphere, while the space-efficient design ensures ample room for passengers despite the vehicle’s compact size.
The ID.5’s design is defined by its coupe-like silhouette and aerodynamic efficiency. Its sporty yet elegant exterior features sharp lines and a distinctive front grille, emphasizing its premium feel.
Inside, the ID.5 offers a spacious cabin with high-end materials and advanced ergonomics. The cockpit is driver-focused, with a digital instrument cluster and a large infotainment screen that dominate the dashboard, providing both functionality and style.
Technology
smart #3 is equipped with a suite of advanced technological features designed to enhance convenience and connectivity.
A central touchscreen interface provides access to the vehicle’s infotainment system, which includes navigation, media, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The car also features advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automated emergency braking.
Volkswagen ID.5 comes with a state-of-the-art infotainment system that includes a high-resolution central touchscreen and a digital cockpit. It offers seamless connectivity with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and integrated navigation.
The ID.5 is packed with cutting-edge driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and a 360-degree camera system, ensuring a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
Drive and Performance
With the smart #3, its compact dimensions make parking and manoeuvring in tight spaces a breeze, reinforcing its practicality for urban living. It’s engineered for agile city driving, with a peppy electric motor that provides instant torque for quick acceleration.
While it may not offer sports car levels of performance, the smart #3 provides a spirited drive that is more than sufficient for daily commuting and city errands.
The ID.5 offers a more robust performance profile, with a choice of powertrains that include rear-wheel and all-wheel drive options. Its electric motors deliver smooth and responsive acceleration, making it capable of handling both city streets and highways with ease.
The ID.5 also features dynamic handling and a well-balanced chassis, ensuring a comfortable and engaging driving experience.
Electric Range and Charging
Capable of charging up to 135kW with a DC charger, you can get up to 62 miles in just 7 minutes, perfect if you want to stop for a coffee break and fancy racking up a few miles. The Volkswagen ID.5 has up to 342 miles of electric range, depending on which trim you opt for.
The smart #3 doesn’t win in terms of range, you get a maximum range of 283 miles which is still pretty decent and more than enough to get you where you need to be.
It’s important to point out that you probably won’t go more than 100 miles on a long journey before stopping for a break, so you’ll be able to charge up more miles if you need them.
When using a rapid 100kW charger, you’ll be able to get from 20-80% in just 24 minutes.
So when it comes to range and charging, the Volkswagen ID.5 wins, but the smart #3’s figures are still impressive.
Space and Practicality
Despite its compact exterior, the smart #3 offers a surprisingly spacious interior thanks to its clever design.
The rear seats can accommodate adult passengers comfortably, and the flexible cargo area provides sufficient space for groceries, luggage, and other essentials.
The ID.5 excels in space and practicality, offering a roomy cabin that comfortably seats five adults. Its versatile cargo space is enhanced by a flat floor and a large trunk, making it ideal for family use and long trips.
The rear seats can be folded down to expand the cargo area, providing additional storage capacity when needed. The ID.5’s combination of space, comfort, and practicality makes it a strong contender in the electric SUV segment.
Prices
The Volkswagen ID.5 starts at £44,980 for the Match trim level, and this rises up to £54,825
Prices for the smart #3 start at £32,260 for the entry-level Pro and rise up to £44,760 if you opt for the BRABUS edition.
If you’re after a more flexible way to get behind the wheel of a smart #3, we offer a range of finance options to help make choosing your car that little bit easier.
