Smart #1 I (HX11) (2022 – 2025)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

WARNING - IMPORTANT CLARIFICATION: Although the request targets a "diesel" engine, the Smart #1 (HX11 generation) is an exclusively 100% electric vehicle (BEV). It has never been offered with a diesel, petrol, or hybrid engine. The result of a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz (in charge of design) and Geely (in charge of engineering), the Smart #1 marks the revival of the brand. It abandons the micro-city car format to become a premium urban SUV (B-SUV segment). Based on Geely's excellent SEA modular platform (shared with the Volvo EX30 and Zeekr X), it stands out with a very spacious interior, meticulous finish, and top-flight performances. Mechanical and electrical reliability is very good, although early models suffered from software bugs (infotainment and driving aids) that have bee

✅ Strengths

Exceptional roominess for its size (2.75 m wheelbase)
Very high-level performances (272 hp as standard, 428 hp in Brabus)
Interior finish quality and original design (by Mercedes)
Very well-born and robust Geely SEA platform
Efficient fast charging (up to 150 kW in DC, 22 kW in AC on Premium/Brabus)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Total absence of combustion/diesel engines (for high-mileage drivers resistant to electric)
Limited trunk volume (323 liters) for family use
Complex all-touch ergonomics and overly intrusive driving aids (ADAS)
Frequent software bugs on early production models (2022-2023)
High weight (over 1,800 kg) impacting agility and highway consumption

🎯 Verdict

The Smart #1 is an excellent surprise that completely redefines the brand. Relying on Geely's electric expertise, it offers very solid mechanical features and impressive performances. It does not exist in diesel, which excludes traditional high-mileage highway driver profiles. However, for urban, suburban, and regular road use, it is a very relevant choice. Hardware reliability is excellent; the only real black mark concerns software stability (infotainment and driving aids), which fortunately improves with over-the-air updates. Opt for a Premium version (66 kWh NMC battery and 22 kW AC charger) for the best compromise.

Common issues

Bugs logiciels et système d'infodivertissement Low

🔧 Dès l'acquisition – 30 000 km

💶 0 – 300 € (mises à jour logicielles, parfois diagnostic)

Vérifier les mises à jour OTA et la réactivité du système.

Problèmes de charge (lenteur, interruption, communication) Medium

🔧 Dès l'acquisition – 50 000 km

💶 0 – 500 € (diagnostic, mise à jour, remplacement capteur)

Tester la charge sur différentes bornes et types de courant.

Rappels constructeur pour défauts de première génération Medium

🔧 10 000 – 40 000 km

💶 0 € (pris en charge par le constructeur)

Vérifier l'historique des rappels et leur application.

Usure prématurée des pneus (due au poids et couple des VE) Medium

🔧 25 000 – 45 000 km

💶 400 – 800 € (pour un train de pneus)

Vérifier l'état des pneus, privilégier des modèles spécifiques VE.

Estimated maintenance costs

Complete brakes	350 – 700 £
Estimated annual budget	200 – 400 £

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.