Smart #1 I (HX11) (2022 – 2025)
Reliability score : 8.2/10
The Smart #1 (pronounced Hashtag One, internal code HX11) marks a total break in the brand's history. Gone are the micro-city cars, making way for a B-segment urban SUV (4.27 m). The result of a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz (design) and Geely (engineering), it is based on Geely's SEA modular platform (shared with the Volvo EX30 and Zeekr X). ⚠️ EXPERT NOTE REGARDING YOUR REQUEST: You targeted the gasoline engine. It is crucial to specify that the Smart #1 does NOT exist with ANY internal combustion engine (neither gasoline nor diesel). It is an exclusively 100% electric vehicle (BEV). The report will therefore focus on the available electric powertrains. Overall, the Smart #1 offers an excellent footprint-to-roominess ratio, top-flight performances, and rich technological equipment,
✅ Strengths
- Remarkable roominess for the size (2.75 m wheelbase)
- Very high-level performances (even on the base 272 hp version)
- Original design and premium interior presentation (by Mercedes)
- Very rich standard equipment (panoramic roof, 360 cameras, driving aids)
- Efficient DC fast charging (up to 150 kW, 10-80% in less than 30 min)
⚠️ Weaknesses
- Total absence of an internal combustion engine (for buyers not ready for electric)
- Complex ergonomics (almost everything goes through the central touch screen)
- Very intrusive and sometimes abrupt driving aids (ADAS)
- Modest trunk volume for an SUV (313 liters + small 15L frunk)
- Frequent software bugs on non-updated models
🎯 Verdict
The Smart #1 is an excellent electric urban SUV that benefits from the synergy between Geely's software/electric expertise and Mercedes-Benz's design. It is imperative to forget the search for a gasoline version, as it does not exist. It is a recommendable purchase, provided you accept highly digitized ergonomics and ensure the vehicle has received all its software updates. The Premium (66 kWh, 272 hp) version represents the best compromise between performances, equipment (standard heat pump), and range. The Brabus version is fun but wears out its tires quickly and loses efficiency.
Common issues
Bugs logiciels du système d'infodivertissement
Low
🔧 Dès la livraison
💶 Sous garantie (mises à jour OTA ou concessionnaire)
Vérifier les mises à jour logicielles et la réactivité du système.
Problèmes de charge (lenteur, interruption ou erreurs)
Medium
🔧 Dès la livraison
💶 Sous garantie (diagnostic, mise à jour logicielle)
Tester la charge sur différentes bornes et types de chargeurs.
Décharge prématurée de la batterie 12V auxiliaire
Medium
🔧 Moins de 30 000 km
💶 Sous garantie. Hors garantie: 150 – 300 €
Surveiller les alertes et s'assurer que le véhicule est bien 'éteint'.
Rappels constructeur (ex: prétensionneurs de ceinture, BMS)
High
🔧 Dès la livraison
💶 Pris en charge par le constructeur
Vérifier l'historique des rappels et leur application avant achat.
Ajustements et bruits intérieurs/extérieurs (panneaux, garnitures)
Low
🔧 Dès la livraison
💶 Sous garantie (réglages, remplacement de clips/garnitures)
Effectuer un essai routier attentif aux bruits et à la finition.
Estimated maintenance costs
| Oil change |
données insuffisantes |
| Complete brakes |
450 – 700 £GBP |
| Estimated annual budget |
200 – 400 £GBP |
Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.