Smart #5 Electric: Uh, what is this thing?

The new electric SUV from Smart, the #5, will offer a very unconventional look starting at the end of August in China. Is this a misguided idea?

After constantly saying that all SUVs look alike, Smart took the criticism literally and designed a new product with a very… unique design. Tastes and colors are subjective, of course. Some will love it, others will call it ugly, but Smart didn’t follow the crowd.

It’s hard to find any familial resemblance of this #5 with other models in the Smart catalog, such as the #1 and #3. The #5 has hints of the Mercedes EQB, Jeep Renegade (yes, at the back), but also of the Kia Niro with droopy eyes. At the rear, you can sense ideas from the old Ford Explorer or the classic Volkswagen Polo. Be careful, it’s not ugly; it’s just unconventional…

Outrageous power!

Acquired by the Chinese giant Geely several years ago, Smart now shares its mechanical components with Volvo, Lotus, Zeekr, Lynk&Co, and others. This is why its development has been so rapid, with production set to begin by the end of August 2024. After building up inventory, Smart promises a launch in the fall.

Nonetheless, the relevance of such a product is in question, although it offers more generous interior space (especially the trunk) compared to the Smart #1 and #3. The dimensions are quite similar with a length of 4.7 meters and a wheelbase of 2.9 meters. The major innovation relates to the battery, with two XXL capacities: 76 and 100 kWh!

These will power various motors depending on the chosen configurations: Rear-wheel drive (340 or 363 hp) or All-wheel drive (587 or 645 hp in Brabus trim!).

What about the potential import of the Smart #5 to Europe? It is likely, but a product with such outrageous power levels may not be a priority for customers.

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