Unveiling the Future: The Euro-Spec Smart #5 Electric SUV
Smart’s largest and most innovative model yet, the Smart #5, has officially been unveiled, indicating a significant shift in the brand’s direction. Anticipated to hit European markets by the close of 2025, the #5 offers a diverse lineup, including a standout high-performance Brabus variant that has recently been showcased as the flagship. This move marks a leap towards a more family-oriented and technologically adept design ethos at Smart, challenging existing perceptions of the brand.
A Bold Step for Smart
“The roominess, the design, and the technology… the whole package is our unique selling proposition,” asserts Dirk Adelmann, the CEO of Smart Europe. The #5 is not just a car; it encapsulates several ‘firsts’ for the brand, indicating a resolve to cater to a growing consumer base seeking more spacious and versatile electric vehicle options. According to Adelmann, this strategic move to expand Smart’s collection was necessary, given the evolution of their existing customers—many of whom began their journeys with the brand via the diminutive ForTwo models.
Transition to Larger Vehicles
Smart has historically thrived in the compact market, with over 2.2 million ForTwo owners in Europe over the last 26 years. These customers, often beginning their driving adventures with Smart as their first or second vehicle, have matured along with the brand. Adelmann emphasizes that today’s consumers are searching for larger, family-centric vehicles. The introduction of the #5 is a natural progression to meet this demand, marking a pivotal turning point in the brand’s philosophy.
Targeting a Broader Audience
Smart’s ambitions for the #5 extend to capturing a new demographic. According to Xuan Zheng Goh, head of product management, the crossover represents entry into the lucrative C/D segment SUV market—one of the largest in Europe. Smart aims to attract previous ForTwo owners who are now in a position to invest in a larger vehicle, rekindling their affinity for the brand in a new form.
Design Language: Echoing the Past, Embracing the Future
The design of the Smart #5 pays homage to its predecessor, the Concept #5. Featuring a boxy silhouette reminiscent of the Mercedes GLB, the #5’s aesthetic differentiates itself through unique headlight and taillight configurations that span across the vehicle’s width. However, while some may find beauty in its quirky details, such as floating wheel covers and frameless doors, the design is more about functionality than sheer visual appeal, tailored to avoid the “Russian doll” effect seen in other Smart models.
Specifications That Cater to Every Need
Five different specifications of the Smart #5 have been revealed: Pro, Pro+, Premium, Pulse, and a limited-edition Summit model. The Premium version features eye-catching sandy beige tones, while the exclusive Summit Edition boasts elaborate accessories. Each specification has been carefully designed, with the more performance-focused models incorporating unique bumper and wheel designs.
A Peek Inside: The Cutting-Edge Interior
Stepping into the #5 is an experience in spacious luxury. The cabin’s design incorporates over 90% soft-touch materials, crafting an inviting atmosphere for passengers. Xiao Tong, the project lead for the #5, remarks on the focus on technology integration, featuring a large console equipped with dual 13-inch displays alongside the driver’s digital dashboard.
Tech Innovations at the Forefront
Smart has aimed to elevate its technology game with the #5. The dashboard’s layout utilizes a freshly developed operating system, enhancing user customization while reducing distractions. Additionally, there are options for a cutting-edge augmented reality head-up display, a standout feature in today’s automotive landscape.
Acoustic Comfort With Premium Audio
For those who appreciate a quality sound experience, the #5 can accommodate a 20-speaker Sennheiser audio system, designed to deliver top-tier acoustics. A unique touch includes a speaker that emerges from the dashboard upon activation, which amplifies the overall auditory experience while driving.
Versatile Space for Families
Practicality meets comfort in the Smart #5, as ample space is allocated for both front and rear passengers. Smart emphasizes that tall individuals can comfortably sit behind similarly tall passengers, and the claimed boot capacity stands at 630 litres, featuring a cleverly designed underfloor compartment to maximize storage.
Performance Specs to Impress
Under the hood, the Smart #5 offers impressive performance dynamics. The base Pro model kicks off with a 76kWh LFP battery paired with a rear e-motor producing 335bhp, attaining a 0-62mph sprint in just 6.9 seconds with a respectable range of up to 288 miles. For enthusiasts, later models in the lineup will benefit from a robust 100kWh NMC battery pack, leveraging advanced 800-volt architecture.
The Powerhouse Brabus Variant
Perhaps the showstopper in the lineup is the Brabus version of the #5, which was unveiled later, showcasing its own sporty aesthetic paired with an electric powertrain that delivers an astounding 636bhp. This performance variant promises a 0-62mph time of a mere 3.8 seconds, propelling it into the realm of high-performance electric vehicles.
Smart’s Growing Relationship with Brabus
The incorporation of the Brabus brand into Smart’s offerings is a calculated strategy. Adelmann notes that Brabus variants had significant pre-order percentages, underscoring their popularity. This partnership is crucial as Smart aims to retain competitiveness in a rapidly evolving EV market.
Performance Enhancements for the Brabus Variant
What sets the Brabus variant apart is not just its aesthetic appeal but also enhancements for performance, including specialized tires and suspension options tailored to handle its increased power. Adelmann hints at the potential for future innovations in the Brabus line, signifying an ongoing commitment to elevating the Smart experience.
Timeline and Pricing: What to Expect
As for availability, consumers can expect the Smart #5 to launch towards the end of 2025 in the UK. Initial pricing is projected to start around £45,000 for the entry-level Pro model, setting a competitive benchmark within the expanding EV market.
Conclusion: Embracing a New Era for Smart
The Smart #5 electric SUV represents a significant evolution for the brand, positioning it to attract both loyal customers and new buyers seeking a spacious, tech-savvy electric vehicle. With innovative technology, enticing design, and formidable performance options—especially the Brabus variant—Smart is clearly preparing for a future where it can no longer be relegated to the fringes of the automotive market. The #5 embodies a promising chapter for Smart as it ventures into family-focused electric mobility with flair.
