New Smart #5 mid-size electric SUV revealed to take on the Skoda Enyaq

Smart built its reputation on creating small city cars, perfect for running around town, but that’s all changed and now the brand is looking to conquer the electric mid-size SUV sector. The car for the job is the Smart #5 and it’s aiming to take-on rivals like the Skoda Enyaq and Tesla Model Y in the process.

The Smart #5 has just been revealed at an event in Australia. Smart claims that you can charge the #5 from 10 to 80 per cent in around 15 minutes when using a rapid charger, thanks to the 800-volt architecture and a 100kWh battery. This battery pack offers up to 460 miles on a single charge according to China’s CLTC range test cycle, but performance under the stricter WLTP tests we use in Europe is yet to be confirmed.

Despite sharing the same platform as its smaller Smart #1 and #3 SUV siblings, the #5 has a boxier and more rugged design, short front and rear overhangs feature as well as a unique lighting design and front light bar. If the Smart #5 still looks a little tame, then the Smart #5 Summit Edition takes the robust stance further with the ‘Adventurers’ Collection’ pack, adding off-road goodies like underbody protection plates, side steps and ladders, a roof-mounted light bar and a roof rack. 

Despite the utilitarian exterior, inside the cabin, the Smart #5 takes advantage of cutting-edge technology and plush materials. A 10.3-inch ultra HD driver’s display and two 13-inch AMOLED screens dominate the dashboard, alongside a 25.6-inch augmented reality heads-up display. Smart has also fitted a powerful 2,000 watt Sennheiser sound system.

The Smart #5 has a wheelbase of 2,900mm long, meaning there should be ample interior space for passengers. Smart claims there are over 34 interior storage compartments and up to 1,530 litres of luggage space when you fold down the rear seats. If you happen to need more space, there’s a 72-litre ‘frunk’ for extra storage under the bonnet. Don’t worry about packing the tent though, as all the seats can be folded down to create a makeshift bed, making sleeping away from home on a camping trip simplicity itself.

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Overall performance figures remain under wraps at the moment, but information leaked earlier this year suggests that the Smart #5 could be offered with a choice of single or dual-motor powertrains. The range includes power outputs of 335bhp or 386bhp for single-motor cars, or 579bhp for dual-motor, all-wheel drive cars. There is also scope for a hot Brabus version, producing up to 637bhp.

Prices are yet to be confirmed, but with all this cutting edge technology and 100kWh battery, we could be looking at a starting price of well over £40,000.