Smart #5: A Leap from Urban to Adventure
Electric SUV of Model 5 from Smart Demonstrates That Dimensions Bring Significance - Test Drive Review
In a significant shift from its earlier models, the Smart #5 is now a mid-size crossover SUV, stepping away from the urban focus of its predecessors - the #1 and #3. This new offering from Smart can be compared to a Jeep Renegade in terms of its front design, albeit with a more contemporary flair. Smart brands this model as an "adventure" vehicle, boasting an off-road mode in select versions.
While the #1 and #3 retain their city-centric identity, the #5 is more general-purpose and mainstream. This difference is apparent in the vehicle's design, with the addition of a row of lights along the front and rear, contributing to a rugged appearance. Despite its enhancement in size, the Smart #5 remains compact, measuring less than 4.7 meters in length, making it shorter than a Tesla Model Y.
Smart's lineup of versions for the #5 is broader compared to previous models. The entry-level model, the Pro, features a single motor driving the rear wheels, delivering 250kW (335hp) and 373Nm of torque, coupled with a 76kWh gross (74.4kWh net) LFP battery. The remaining models utilize a 100kWh gross (94kWh net) NCM battery. The Pulse, Summit, and range-topping Brabus all offer all-wheel drive, with the Pulse and Summit providing an impressive 432kW (579hp) and 643Nm of torque, identical to the Summit. The Premium and Pro+ models keep a single rear motor but offer 267kW (358hp) and 373Nm of torque.
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Smart, a joint venture between Geely and Mercedes-Benz, has been expanding its reach, with the #5 being available in China, where it was the main attraction at Auto Shanghai last month. The powertrain for the #5 originates from Geely, while the exterior and interior styling have been created by Mercedes-Benz. This unique partnership gives Smart a competitive edge in both markets by combining Chinese EV technology with European design.
The trim options for the first couple of Smart models were straightforward, but the six different versions of the #5 create some confusion due to the varying equipment levels. All versions feature a panoramic sunroof, powered tailgate, adaptive cruise control, powered seat adjustment, front heated seats, wireless phone charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Pro and Pro+ include a 10.25-inch instrument display and a 13-inch infotainment screen.
The Pulse, Summit, Premium, and Brabus versions offer an additional 13-inch infotainment screen on the passenger side, enabling media enjoyment throughout the journey. The Pulse adds off-road driving modes, a heat pump, and leather seats. The Summit provides a powered trailer hitch, hands-free access to the tailgate, a head-up display, and a second wireless phone charger. The Premium features ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and an upgraded 20-speaker Sennheiser sound system. The Brabus offers extra power, design elements, exclusive driving modes, launch control, and simulated engine sounds.
Smart #5: A Modern Redesign Inside and Out
Each new Smart model boasts a minimalist yet high-quality interior, reflecting Mercedes-Benz's influence on the joint venture. Leather upholstery is an option, and the front seats are described as comfortable and supportive. The Smart #5 offers an impressive amount of legroom and headroom in the rear seats, even for tall passengers. The expansive panoramic sunroof adds to the sense of spaciousness.
While the Smart EQ fortwo was limited to two seats, the #1 and #3 can accommodate five, and the #5 offers an almost unbelievable amount of rear passenger space for its size. The vehicle's interior trim features a strong sense of roundness, mirroring the C-shape in the Smart logo.
The Smart #5's tailgate opening method is less conventional, with the button hidden within the letter A of the brand name on the back. Given its rear seat and cargo space, the 630 liters of cargo capacity with the seats up is a commendable offering. With the seats folded, the cargo space expands to 1,500 liters, making it competitive in its class. The all-wheel drive Brabus, Summit, and Pulse, however, have motors where the 72-liter frunk would be found, reducing cargo space to 47 liters.
The infotainment system for the Smart #5 has developed in comparison to previous models. Unlike the #1 and #3, which are packed with software features, the #5's approach is more understated, resulting in a simpler and easier-to-navigate system. The characteristic pet lion remains on the home screen, though it is less active than in previous models. The incorporation of discrete air conditioning controls could still be improved, according to some users.
Smart #5 Brabus Power Unleashed
The Brabus version of the Smart #5 delivers serious performance, boasting a base output of 475kW (637hp) and 710Nm of torque in all-wheel drive mode. A sprint to 62mph takes just 3.8 seconds, making it one of the quickest SUVs among its peers. Even in Comfort mode, the vehicle still feels nimble and swift. For those seeking more drama, the Brabus offers selectable fake engine noises.
The non-Brabus #5 models offer impressive performance as well, with the Pro making it to 62mph in 6.9 seconds, while the Pro+ and Premium require only 6.5 seconds. The Pulse and Summit accelerate to 62mph in 4.9 seconds, demonstrating the Smart #5's quick and responsive nature. The handling on winding mountain roads and rough road surfaces is impressive, demonstrating the vehicle's versatility and capability.
The electric range of Smart cars has significantly improved, enabling the Smart #5 to confidently travel between cities with its 100kWh battery. The all-wheel drive Pulse, Summit, and Brabus offer a WLTP range of 338 miles, while the Premium extends to 369 miles. The Pro and Pro+, with their 76kWh battery, offer a WLTP range of 291 miles. The Brabus variant was tested for nearly five hours, covering 171 miles, with a real-world range of 226 miles. This range falls short of the Tesla Model Y Performance (last generation), but the 400kW charging capability ensures rapid recharging times.
While Smart has not yet revealed the UK prices for the Smart #5, the hope is to set the entry-level Pro around £40,000 ($53,500) and the Brabus "early to mid £50,000" ($67,000). With its high-quality interior, impressive driving experience, and practical design, the Smart #5 could prove to be a compelling competitor in the mid-size electric SUV market.
Plans for a return to smaller cars remain unclear, with Smart working on Project #2 for the past 18 months, though a release date has not been confirmed. For now, Smart's focus remains on the versatile and capable Smart #5, which looks set to become a common sight on roads across the globe.
- The Smart #5, a joint venture between Geely and Mercedes-Benz, exhibits a unique blend of Chinese EV technology and European design, providing a competitive edge in the automotive industry.
- The Smart #5 stands out in the automotive lifestyle market, offering smart gadgets such as wireless phone charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, in addition to its compact yet spacious design.
- Finance and investment firms closely watch the electric-vehicle sector, with the Smart #5's competitive pricing – expected to be around £40,000 for the entry-level Pro and "early to mid £50,000" for the Brabus – making it an intriguing investment opportunity.
- The Smart #5's unveiling in the transportation industry sets a precedent for manufacturers focusing on mid-size electric-vehicles, given its impressive performance, range, and off-road capabilities.
- With the Smart #5 posing a credible contender in the competition against rivals like Mercedes-Benz and Tesla, the electric-vehicle landscape is poised for exciting advancements in technology and design.
