Once known for its microcars, Smart is entering the midsize electric SUV market with the all-new Smart #5.
The Smart #5, revealed in Australia in 2024, is heading to the UK later this year. It offers a practical and upscale EV experience, challenging its previous brand identity.
Smart is now a joint venture between Germany’s Mercedes-Benz and China’s Geely. Under Mercedes-Benz’s previous leadership, the brand was defined by compact city vehicles. However, the new Smart #5 completely overturns that perception.
Smart Grows Up: Midsize Footprint, Long-Distance Capability
The Smart #5 will be available for pre-order in October 2025. It is 4,695 mm (184.8 inches) long and has a 2,900 mm (114.2 inches) wheelbase, which puts it in the same size class as the Tesla Model Y.
The vehicle’s technology and features are high-end. The base Pro trim includes advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and a panoramic sunroof.
The 800V high-voltage battery system is a key feature that enables fast charging from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes.
Two battery options are available: a 76 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and a 100 kWh nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM). Under the WLTP test cycle, the former offers a maximum range of 589 mm (365 miles), making it suitable for long-distance driving.
From City to Off-Road Utility
Europe will offer five trims: Pro, Pro+, Pulse, Premium, and Summit Edition. Higher trims include more premium features and enhanced driving performance.
From the Pulse trim upward, all-wheel drive (AWD) is standard. Premium and Summit trims have outdoor gear like roof platforms and side ladders.
The Summit Edition adds a dual-motor AWD system and an electric trailer hitch, making it suitable for towing and outdoor use.
Pulse and Summit models accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 4.9 seconds and include five terrain modes: adaptive, sand, snow, mud, and rock. These features allow for smooth driving both off-road and in urban settings.
Premium Interior and Tech Position Smart as a Lifestyle Brand
The interior design sets a new standard for EVs.
It includes a dual OLED center display and AI voice commands, with Premium trims and above offering a Sennheiser signature sound system. This 20-speaker audio setup includes eye-catching illuminated speakers that rise from the dashboard.
Cargo capacity includes a 72-liter (1.9 cubic-foot) front trunk (frunk) and a rear trunk offering 630 liters (22.3 cubic feet), expandable to 1,530 liters (54.1 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded.
European Market Response Signals a Strong Start
The Smart #5 is priced between €45,900 (approximately $55,000) and €56,900 (approximately $68,000).
European consumers have responded enthusiastically to the Smart #5.
EV owners noted that Smart has nailed it by recognizing that charging speed trumps range. This Smart is definitely worth considering.
With the #5 series, Smart is moving away from its microcar identity and entering the midsize SUV market with a new direction. Industry observers closely watch how it will shape Smart’s future in the competitive midsize SUV market.
