New Smart #1 and BYD Atto 3 vs Kia Niro EV: verdict

Our verdict

Smart is most famous for the tiny Fortwo city car, but it also has a history of launching some interesting and clever cars that ultimately bombed in the sales charts. Remember the Smart Roadster? We really hope the #1 doesn’t suffer the same fate, because it’s an absolute cracker and positively trounces its rivals here. Small boot aside, it has no major weaknesses.

The Niro EV finishes a solid second. It has the longest range of the trio, which is important, but it can’t compete on value with its rivals – particularly when you factor in standard equipment. It’s also slow to charge by current standards.

There’s plenty to like about the Atto 3, too – namely its clever and feature-packed infotainment system and the fact that it offers the cheapest monthly PCP payments. Sadly, its unsophisticated driving manners and unsupportive driver’s seat mean it has to settle for third place.

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1st – Smart #1

For Well-thought- out, well-made interior; surprisingly quick; fastest charging capability; tonnes of standard kit; roomy in the rear
Against Small boot; slightly choppy low-speed ride; so-so efficiency
Recommended options None

What Car? says 5 stars out of 5

Smart #1 review >>

Smart #1 deals >>

2nd – Kia Niro EV

For Longest range; secure, composed handling; slow predicted depreciation; long warranty (not just on battery)
Against Priciest to buy; stingiest on kit; relatively slow to charge
Recommended options Heat pump (£900)

What Car? says 4 stars out of 5

Kia Niro EV review >>

Kia Niro EV deals >>

3rd – BYD Atto 3

For Great infotainment system; longer-life, safer battery; well equipped
Against Soggy handling; too much wind noise; front seats lack lumbar support; slow to charge by today’s standards
Recommended options None

What Car? says 3 stars out of 5

BYD Atto 3 review >>

BYD Atto 3 deals >>

Specifications: Smart #1 Premium

Engine Electric motor
Peak power 268bhp
Peak torque 252lb f
Gearbox 1-spd automatic
0-60mph 5.8sec
30-70mph in kickdown 4.9sec
Top speed 112mph
Braking distance 30-0mph 8.5m
Braking distance 70-0mph 45.6m
Noise at 30mph 59.5dB
Noise at 70mph 66.4dB
Kerb weight 1888kg
Tyres (std) 235/45 R19
Real-world range (est) 217 miles
Official range 273 miles
Efficiency 3.5 miles/kWh
Battery capacity (usable) 62kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Maximum charging rate 150kW
7kW home wallbox (0-100% charging time) 10hr
Rapid charger, peak rate (10-80% charging time) 27min

Specifications: BYD Atto 3 Design

Engine Electric motor
Peak power 201bhp
Peak torque 228lb ft
Gearbox 1-spd automatic
0-60mph 7.3sec
30-70mph in kickdown 6.4sec
Top speed 99mph
Braking distance 30-0mph 8.3m
Braking distance 70-0mph 45.2m
Noise at 30mph 59.0dB
Noise at 70mph 66.8dB
Kerb weight 1825kg
Tyres (std) 235/50 R18
Real-world range (est) 216 miles
Official range 260 miles
Efficiency 3.6 miles/kWh
Battery capacity (usable) 60kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Maximum charging rate 88kW
7kW home wallbox (0-100% charging time) 9hr 45min
Rapid charger, peak rate (10-80% charging time) 44min

Specifications: Kia Niro EV 3

Engine Electric motor
Peak power 201bhp
Peak torque 255lb ft
Gearbox 1-spd automatic
0-60mph 7.4sec
30-70mph in kickdown 6.2sec
Top speed 103mph
Braking distance 30-0mph 8.5m
Braking distance 70-0mph 45.6m
Noise at 30mph 59.5dB
Noise at 70mph 66.4dB
Kerb weight 1757kg
Tyres (std) 215/55 R17
Real-world range (est) 246 miles
Official range 285 miles
Efficiency 3.7 miles/kWh
Battery capacity (usable) 64.8kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Maximum charging rate 80kW
7kW home wallbox (0-100% charging time) 10hr 30min
Rapid charger, peak rate (10-80% charging time) 41min

Weather conditions Dry

Cars pictured

Smart #1 Premium with Eclipse Black/Cyber Silver paint

BYD Atto 3 Design with Parkour Red paint

Kia Niro EV 2 with Cityscape Green paint (£595)

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