smart #3 vs Kia PV5
Two electric cars 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 #3 starts from $57,900 before on-road costs, while the Kia PV5 opens at $55,990. That makes the Kia PV5 the more affordable entry point by $1,910.
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 $63,690 and $61,589 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
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The smart #3 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, panoramic roof, heated front seats, power tailgate and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Kia PV5. The Kia PV5 counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The smart #3 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 5.8 seconds.
The Kia PV5 responds with a Electric Motor making 120kW and 250Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 12.5 seconds.
The smart #3 has the clear power advantage at 200kW vs 120kW. In the real-world sprint, the smart #3 is 6.7s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 66kWh (smart #3) vs 71.2kWh (Kia PV5), giving WLTP ranges of 435km and 400km. DC fast charging peaks at 130kW (smart #3) vs 150kW (Kia PV5).
Space & Comfort
The smart #3 measures 4,400mm long on a 2,785mm wheelbase, 295mm shorter than the Kia PV5 at 4,695mm (2,995mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Kia PV5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 260L in the smart #3 and 1500L in the Kia PV5, giving the Kia PV5 a 1240L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.5m diameter
Average
Based on 11.5m 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 #3) vs 7 years / 999,999km (Kia PV5). The Kia PV5 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the smart #3 if: You prioritise performance, or prefer smart's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Kia PV5 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Kia PV5 takes 6 of 9 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Kia PV5 has a clear edge. The Kia PV5 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. 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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