On August 29, 2025, the 2026 Smart Elf #1 BRABUS Performance Edition was officially launched at the Chengdu Auto Show, with an official suggested retail price starting at RMB 249,900. As a high-performance version of the smart brand in collaboration with BRABUS, the new car has undergone comprehensive upgrades in appearance, features, and powertrain, incorporating 102 design improvements. It has been hailed by the media as an "electric hot hatch."
The 2026 smart Elf #1 BRABUS Performance Edition is most notable for its comprehensive powertrain upgrades:
Dual-Motor All-Wheel Drive System: The front and rear motors deliver maximum power of 115 kW and 250 kW, respectively, for a total of 365 kW (496 horsepower) and a peak torque of 573 Nm. This represents a 50 kW increase in rear motor power compared to the current model.
Acceleration: 0-100 km/h acceleration is improved from the current 3.9 seconds to 3.6 seconds.
Range: 470 kilometers of range under CLTC conditions.
Braking System: Equipped with Michelin PS4 high-performance sports tires, braking distance is increased from 37 meters to 34.38 meters.
In addition, the new car features Launch Mode and four full-speed dynamic sound simulations, allowing electric driving to deliver the thrill of a gasoline-powered performance car. The intelligent all-wheel-drive system can switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive in just 0.4 seconds, offering four driving modes: Eco (rear-wheel drive), Comfort/Sport (part-time four-wheel drive), and BRABUS (full-time four-wheel drive).
The 2026 smart Elf #1 BRABUS Performance Edition features a comprehensive exterior makeover:
Exclusive sports package: includes a sports front scoop with "PERFORMANCE" logo, a red luminous particle front grille, BRABUS Design sports air curtains, and a sporty hood;
Unique color scheme: The BRABUS exclusive matte black exterior is paired with an Energy Red contrasting roof, creating a striking visual contrast;
Wheels: 19-inch BRABUS MONOBLOCK Z 10-spoke light-alloy wheels with red brake calipers;
Aerodynamics: The rear spoiler has been upgraded, reducing the drag coefficient to 0.29Cd;
Dimensions: The new car measures 4300mm in length, 1822mm in width, and 1636mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2750mm, maintaining the smart brand's signature compact proportions.
Entering the car, the 2026 smart Elf #1 BRABUS Performance Edition continues its red and black sporty styling:
Upgraded Materials: Selected suede finishes are used on the roof, sun visors, and A-pillars;
Seats: Microfiber sports seats with red seatbelts;
Steering Wheel: Alcantara suede with integrated illuminated BRABUS logo;
Sound System: Upgraded from Beats to the 13-speaker Sennheiser Classic Audio Package;
Ambient Lighting: 256-color ambient lighting with music-inspired mode;
Intelligent Features: New Sentry Mode, featuring real-time environmental monitoring via a 360° camera.
The 2026 smart Elf #1 BRABUS Performance Edition has an official suggested retail price starting at 249,900 yuan, making it more competitive than the current starting price of 284,900 yuan. Positioned as a premium performance electric vehicle, the new model targets young consumers who value individuality and driving pleasure. With a 0-100 km/h acceleration of 3.6 seconds and a unique performance aesthetic, this "electric hot hatch" is expected to occupy a prominent position in the small, high-performance electric vehicle market.
Smart officials stated that deliveries of the new car will begin in the fourth quarter of 2025. Please contact us and we will help you reserve one free of charge.
