Large Electric SUV Model #5 Impresses with Proven Importance of Size in Performance - Road Evaluation
The Smart #5: Navigating the Evolution of an Iconic Brand
The latest offering from Smart, the #5, signifies a significant shift from the compact city vehicles the brand was previously known for. While the #1 and #3 maintain a city-centric focus albeit with extended capabilities, the #5 aims for a more universal and mainstream audience.
A Mid-Size Crossover with Off-Road Prowess
The Smart #5 sports a mid-size crossover SUV design, bearing some resemblance to the Jeep Renegade from the front, yet presenting a more contemporary aesthetic. Smart positions the #5 as an outdoor-capable “adventure” vehicle, catering to those in search of a strong off-road contender. Some versions even feature an offroad mode for traversing challenging terrains.
Distinctive Design and Dimensions
The #1 and #3 retain a familial resemblance, yet the #5 stands out with its unique design elements. Smart attributes this evolution in design to a desire for a more rugged appearance, achieved through a row of lights along the front and rear that accentuate its outdoor capabilities. Despite its large dimensions, measuring less than 4.7 meters in length (making it slightly shorter than a Tesla Model Y), the Smart #5 boasts impressive space both for passengers and cargo.
A Wide Range of Powertrains and Features
The new Smart #5 will be available in six distinct versions, offering a variety of powertrains and features. The base model, the Pro, features a single motor powering the rear wheels, producing 250kW and 373Nm of torque. A 76kWh gross (74.4kWh net) LFP battery supports this setup. The higher-end models come equipped with a 100kWh gross (94kWh net) NCM battery. The Pulse and Summit versions deliver all-wheel drive, 432kW and 643Nm of torque, while the Premium and Pro+ utilize a single rear motor and produce 267kW and 373Nm of torque. The range-topping Brabus boasts an impressive 475kW AWD system and 710Nm of torque.
Merging Chinese Technology and European Design
Smart has been a joint venture between Geely and Mercedes-Benz since 2020, and the cars are also sold in China. The new Smart #5 showcases this partnership by merging Chinese EV technology from Geely with a European-designed exterior and interior courtesy of Mercedes-Benz. By utilizing the Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA), the Smart #5 taps into technology shared with other brands such as Polestar, Volvo, Zeekr, and Lynk & Co.
Enhanced Interiors and Space
The Smart #5 boasts high-quality interiors, featuring minimalistic yet luxurious details reminiscent of Mercedes-Benz. The front seats are comfortable, offering ample room for longer drives, and the interior design echoes the C-shape in the Smart logo, imbuing the vehicle with a sense of roundness. The Smart #5 provides an unanticipated amount of space for rear-seat passengers, allowing four adults to travel comfortably over long distances. An additional 630 liters of cargo capacity is offered with the seats up, expandable to 1,500 liters when they are folded down.
Infotainment System Improvements
The Smart #5 has streamlined its infotainment system compared to previous models, providing a more user-friendly interface. Though it still retains the iconic pet lion mascot, it is less active than in earlier Smart vehicles. The #5 offers a panoramic sunroof, powered tailgate, adaptive cruise control, seat adjustment, and heating for the front seats as standard features. The Pro and Pro+ versions further include wireless phone charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Evaluating the Smart #5: The Evolution of an Urban Symbol
The Smart #5 represents the latest phase in the evolution of the Smart brand - moving from compact city cars to a more versatile, powerful, and spacious electric crossover SUV. With its sleek design, off-road capabilities, and innovative technology, the Smart #5 has positioned itself to attract a wider range of customers while remaining true to its urban roots.
(Enrichment Data May Be Integrated as Appropriate):
- Design: The exterior design emphasizes its off-roading capabilities with rugged details, while the interior exudes a modern, luxurious aesthetic through minimalistic design elements and high-quality materials.
- Power: More powerful electric motors, with options for rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, distinguish the Smart #5 from its predecessors.
- Range: The Smart #5 boasts increased range compared to previous models,ACHIEVE significant improvements in its ability to travel beyond the urban environment, owing to its 76kWh or 100kWh battery.
- Pricing: Expected to start around $70,000, reflecting its larger size, more advanced technology, and higher performance capabilities.
- The Smart #5 represents a significant departure from Smart's past compact city cars, offering a more versatile, powerful, and spacious electric crossover SUV that caters to a wider range of customers while remaining true to its urban roots.
- The Smart #5, an electric crossover SUV, showcases a fusion of Chinese EV technology from Geely and European design courtesy of Mercedes-Benz.
- As part of its shift towards a more mainstream audience, the Smart #5 sports impressive space for both passengers and cargo, despite its mid-size dimensions.
- The automotive industry embraces electric-vehicles, such as the Smart #5, which will be available in six versions, each boasting different powertrains and features, ranging from rear-wheel drive to all-wheel drive configurations.
- With its distinctive design, strong off-road capabilities, and high-quality luxury interiors, the Smart #5 challenges traditional perceptions of urban symbol vehicles, broadening its appeal in the lifestyle, technology, and transportation sectors.
