Smart's New #5 Compact SUV Won't Be Available in the US, and That's an Oversight | Carscoops

      Smart has introduced its #5 SUV in Europe after unveiling it in China last year.

      This electric vehicle, comparable in size to the Tesla Model Y, features a 100 kWh battery and offers a range of up to 366 miles.

      The company has no intentions of expanding its lineup of #1, #3, and #5 EVs into North America.

      Often, the most innovative products are those that enhance existing concepts. The new Smart #5, making its European debut this week, exemplifies this, having launched in China seven months prior.

      As the third and largest electric SUV offered by the new Smart brand, the #5 is not designed to fit two passengers into a compact space like the original ForTwo. However, competing with the Tesla Model Y, which continues to be the top-selling EV in Europe and America despite recent sales declines, is certainly a strategic choice.

      Measuring 4,695 mm (184.8 inches) in length and a wheelbase of 2,900 mm (114.2 inches), the #5 closely matches the dimensions of the recently updated Model Y. Its design appears more aesthetically pleasing, featuring a pronounced chin and gently rounded corners that lend the boxy shape a friendlier essence. Notable design elements include Rolls Royce-style floating wheel center caps, frameless door glass, and, on the rugged Summit Edition, an electric trailer hitch, roof rack, and side ladder.

      Beneath its exterior, the #5 employs the PMA2+ architecture from China's Geely, which co-owns Smart with Mercedes. This setup differentiates it from its smaller siblings that utilize the smaller SEA platform and operate on 400-volt systems, whereas the #5 is equipped with 800-volt technology for quicker charging.

      With a range of up to 366 miles, the basic #5 Pro model comes with a 76 kWh LFP battery, while the more expensive Pro+ versions upgrade to a robust 100 kWh NCM battery pack. While Smart has not disclosed precise mileage figures for the smaller battery, it's likely to be under 300 miles (483 km), as the larger battery reaches its charging limits after 366 WLTP miles (589 km).

      When connected to a sufficiently fast charger, it can go from 10-80% in just 18 minutes. Additionally, similar to Hyundai-Kia EVs, the #5 offers a vehicle-to-load power outlet for outdoor adventures.

      Though Smart has not released all technical specifications, it mentions that the more premium bi-motor Pulse and Summit Edition models can accelerate from zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.9 seconds. Information from China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology last year indicated that AWD variants pair a front-mounted electric motor generating 221 hp (165 kW / 224 PS) with either a 358 hp (267 kW / 363 PS) or a 416 hp (310 kW / 422 PS) rear motor.

      This same MIIT information also revealed that less expensive single-motor, rear-wheel drive #5 versions have outputs of 335 hp (250 kW / 340 PS) or 358 hp (267 kW / 363 PS), although it remains unclear if both power options will be available in Europe. However, it appears possible to get a single-motor configuration with the 100 kWh battery, which is presumed to deliver the 366-mile range.

      Upon entering the car, you'll find the interior much more inviting than the stark environment of a Tesla Model Y. Smart highlights features like heated rear seats, an electric sunshade, airplane-style LED reading lights, 256-color ambient lighting, a 20-speaker Sennheiser sound system, and a 25.6-inch Augmented Reality head-up display.

      The #5 also boasts a triple-screen dashboard, featuring a 10.25-inch digital gauge and two 13-inch OLED touchscreens, with video streaming and gaming capabilities enhanced by an Unreal 3D engine. It's not just about technology, though. The #5’s seats can be adjusted for comfort during charging stopovers, and there’s a practical 72-liter (2.54 cu-ft) frunk for storing items that won't fit in the smaller trunk compared to the Model Y. The Tesla also has a limited third row of seats, a feature the #5 lacks.

      When can you purchase it?

      Although the #5 made its debut in China a year ago, European customers will have to wait until Q4 2025 to place their orders, with pricing details expected closer to that date. Despite its potential appeal in the US market, Smart has no plans to introduce this SUV or the brand itself into America, and existing import tariffs are likely to maintain this stance for the foreseeable future.