Smart has launched the 2023 Smart #3 in China, the Geely and Mercedes-Benz co-owned EV marque’s second model. Like the earlier Smart #1, the new model is also developed on Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform.

In China, prices of the Smart #3 start from CNY 209,900 (~RM 135k) for the entry-level, rear-wheel drive Pro+ variant and tops out at CNY 239,900 (~RM 155k) for the Premium variant. The souped-up Brabus variant is priced at CNY 289,900 (~RM 187k).

These prices are rather competitive, given how aggressive China’s EV market is at the moment.

When compared to similarly-priced Chinese EVs, one of the closest rivals would be the Volkswagen ID.4 X, priced between CNY 195,888 (~RM 126k) to CNY 283,888 (~RM 183k). The Zeekr X, another model under the larger Geely umbrella, is also priced within a similar price bracket (CNY 189,800 / ~RM 122k to CNY 229,800 / ~RM 148k).

Another similarly-priced electric SUV is the Toyota bZ4X. Toyota’s first-ever EV developed on the e-TNGA platform is priced between CNY 199,800 (~RM 129k) to CNY 284,800 (~RM 184k) in China.

Also Read: First 6 units of Toyota bZ4X EV registered in Malaysia for evaluation and development; 500 km range, FWD variant

But the Smart #3 won’t be competing with EVs alone, as Chinese buyers are spoilt for choices when shopping for a similarly-priced SUV.

One such example is the sixth-generation Honda CR-V. Prices of the China-spec CR-V start from CNY 185,900 for the entry-level 1.5-litre turbocharged unit and tops out at CNY 289,900 (~RM 187k) for the top-spec e:PHEV variant.

Apart from the Honda CR-V, another similarly-priced rival would be the Toyota RAV4. In China, the Toyota RAV4 has a starting price of CNY 175,800 (~RM 114k) and tops out at CNY 296,800 (~RM 192k) for the top-of-the-line plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant.

As a brief recap, Proton has confirmed that they will be launching the Smart #3 here in Malaysia after China and Europe. But before the Smart #3 arrives here, the smaller Smart #1 is on track for a Q4 2023 launch here, and the model has been spotted in Malaysia.

Also Read: Proton confirms Smart #3 will be launched in Malaysia, Smart #1 on track for Q4 2023 launch