smart #1 vs Renault Megane E-Tech
Two electric SUVs go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The smart #1 starts from $54,900 before on-road costs, while the Renault Megane E-Tech opens at $54,990. That makes the smart #1 the more affordable entry point by $90.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $60,390 and $60,489 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
Both the smart #1 and Renault Megane E-Tech hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 96% for the smart #1 and 85% for the Renault Megane E-Tech.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The smart #1 packs more ADAS features with 9 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 7 in the Renault Megane E-Tech.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the smart #1 and 6 in the Renault Megane E-Tech.
Feature Showdown
The smart #1 features a 12.8-inch touchscreen, while the Renault Megane E-Tech gets a 9-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The smart #1 stands out with heated front seats and power tailgate that you will not find on the Renault Megane E-Tech. The Renault Megane E-Tech counters with head-up display and BOSE audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The smart #1 uses a Electric producing 200kW and 343Nm of torque, sent through a single-speed automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.7 seconds.
The Renault Megane E-Tech responds with a Electric making 160kW and 300Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.4 seconds.
The smart #1 has the clear power advantage at 200kW vs 160kW. In the real-world sprint, the smart #1 is 0.7s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 66kWh (smart #1) vs 60kWh (Renault Megane E-Tech), giving WLTP ranges of 420km and 440km. DC fast charging peaks at 150kW (smart #1) vs 130kW (Renault Megane E-Tech).
Space & Comfort
The smart #1 measures 4,270mm long on a 2,750mm wheelbase, 70mm longer than the Renault Megane E-Tech at 4,200mm (2,685mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the smart #1 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 203L in the smart #1 and 440L in the Renault Megane E-Tech, giving the Renault Megane E-Tech a 237L advantage.
For towing, the smart #1 leads with a 1,600kg braked capacity vs 1,000kg. That 600kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m to 11.1m
Based on 11.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 150,000km (smart #1) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Renault Megane E-Tech). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the smart #1 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need stronger towing, or prefer smart's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Renault Megane E-Tech if: You need more boot space, or prefer Renault's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The smart #1 takes 6 of 8 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Renault Megane E-Tech has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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