Revolutionary Shift: The Smart #5 Redefines the Brand's Identity
The Smart #5 marks a significant departure from the brand’s compact car origins, emerging as a tech-savvy electric SUV designed for modern families. Developed in collaboration between Geely and Mercedes-Benz, this vehicle stretches 4.7 meters in length, making it one of the largest offerings under the Smart umbrella. Despite its size, the Smart #5 boasts an impressive interior space, advanced technology features, and rapid charging capabilities that set it apart in the competitive mid-size SUV market. Available in various trims, including the high-performance Brabus model, the Smart #5 combines luxury, practicality, and speed, appealing to a diverse range of drivers.
Manufactured by Chinese automaker Geely and styled by Mercedes-Benz, the Smart #5 represents a bold evolution of the Smart brand. Unlike its diminutive predecessors, this new model prioritizes spaciousness and functionality over quirky charm. Its boxy design accommodates both front and rear passengers comfortably, while a flat floor enhances interior roominess. With a wheelbase measuring nearly three meters, the Smart #5 provides ample legroom and headspace even for taller individuals. Furthermore, the vehicle offers generous cargo capacity, expanding up to 1,530 liters when the rear seats are folded down.
In terms of performance, the Smart #5 delivers on multiple fronts. Equipped with two battery options—76kWh and 100kWh—the SUV caters to different consumer needs regarding range and power. The entry-level Pro variant promises approximately 288 miles of range, whereas higher trims extend that figure to 366 miles. Notably, the top-tier Brabus model introduces extraordinary acceleration, reaching 62 mph in just 3.8 seconds thanks to its formidable 637 horsepower engine. However, such extreme performance may not align with typical family driving requirements.
One standout feature of the Smart #5 is its exceptional charging speed. Leveraging an 800V architecture, the larger battery can achieve an 80% charge within 18 minutes under optimal conditions. Even the base model supports fast charging at 150kW rates, ensuring convenient refueling during long journeys. Inside, the cabin exudes premium quality, featuring luxurious materials and cutting-edge infotainment systems. Passengers enjoy dual touchscreen displays, wireless smartphone integration, and an immersive audio experience courtesy of a 20-speaker Sennheiser sound system.
While city navigation might pose challenges due to its substantial dimensions, the Smart #5 excels in other areas. It handles smoothly across diverse terrains, maintaining composure whether cruising highways or maneuvering through cobblestone streets. Advanced driver assistance technologies further enhance safety and comfort, though occasional overly cautious alerts may occasionally disrupt the driving experience.
Pricing for the Smart #5 remains undisclosed but estimates suggest a starting point around £32,000 for the Pro model, increasing significantly for the Brabus edition potentially exceeding £55,000. For those seeking balance between cost and capability, mid-range trims present compelling value propositions combining spacious interiors, robust technology packages, and respectable efficiency metrics.
Ultimately, the Smart #5 signifies a transformative chapter for the brand, transitioning from producing pocket-sized urban vehicles to crafting expansive electric SUVs. While some enthusiasts may lament the loss of the original Smart Fortwo’s charm, the new lineup addresses contemporary demands effectively. By integrating sophisticated engineering solutions alongside traditional automotive virtues, the Smart #5 establishes itself as a viable contender in today's rapidly evolving electric vehicle landscape.