Smart #5 to offer most space, longest range yet

Smart has released more details of the #5 (Hashtag Five) compact SUV, the third model to be launched since the Mercedes-Benz owned brand was reinvented as a producer of electric vehicles.

The #5 is expected in showrooms towards the end of 2025 and will be the largest model in the Smart range, offering the longest range between charges. It is expected to rival the likes of the Tesla Model Y and Audi Q4 e-tron.

Measuring just short of 4.7 metres in length with a 2.9-metre wheelbase, the #5 will be available in three drivetrain variants.

The entry-level Smart #5 Pro makes use of a 76kWh lithium iron phosphate battery with a maximum range of close to 290 miles, while the Pro +, Pulse and Summit Edition are built on an 800-volt platform and use a 100kWh lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide battery pack. This allows a WLTP-certified range of up to 366 miles and fast recharging, with a suitable charger taking 18 minutes to replenish from 10 to 80%.

The #5 Pulse and Summit Edition offer a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain and a heat pump to keep the battery at its best in wide-ranging environmental conditions, with the Summit Edition also boasting more off-road themed equipment including an electric trailer hitch, roof platform and side ladder.

Both all-wheel-drive variants are also potent, with 0-62mph times of 4.9 seconds. The entry-level Pro version will take 6.9 seconds to complete the 62mph sprint.

Smart adds that the #5 is a roomy vehicle, with generous interior space front and rear, boot space of 630 litres that extends to 1530 litres with the rear seats down, and an illuminated front ‘frunk’ of 72 litres. The interior design also departs from the first two models in the revived Smart line-up, dominated by an enormous single digital panel running from the centre touchscreen to just shy of the front passenger door.