smart #5 Electric SUV: The Big, Fast Charging Reinvention of smart
The smart #5 moves the brand far beyond the tiny city car formula. With five seats, up to 366 miles of WLTP range, a 630 litre boot and charging at up to 400 kW on most versions, it targets families and long distance EV drivers.
Key takeaways
- The Pro+ and Premium deliver the longest official range at up to 366 miles WLTP.
- All 100 kWh versions support up to 400 kW DC charging and a quoted 10 to 80 percent time of 18 minutes under optimal conditions.
- The Pro uses a smaller 76 kWh gross LFP battery, reaches up to 288 miles WLTP and charges at up to 150 kW DC.
- Rear wheel drive and all wheel drive versions are available, with the BRABUS positioned as the performance flagship.
- A 630 litre rear boot, 47 to 72 litre front trunk and up to 1,600 kg braked towing capacity support genuine family use.
- The UK model page lists a starting price of £39,800 at the time checked, but prices and market availability can change.
What is the smart #5?
The smart #5 is the largest vehicle in the current smart range. It is a battery electric, five seat SUV designed to serve daily commuting, family travel and longer journeys. At 4,695 mm long and 1,920 mm wide without mirrors, it belongs in a very different class from the original two seat smart city cars.
This change is central to the story. smart is no longer selling compact dimensions alone. The #5 competes on range, cabin technology, cargo capacity, towing and rapid charging. Readers tracking this expanding category can explore more electric vehicle news and guides on AutoNewsLine.
smart #5 specifications at a glance
smart UK offers six lines. The figures below come from the official UK specification page. They are WLTP and manufacturer figures, not independent road test results.
| Line | Drive and power | Battery | WLTP range | 0 to 62 mph | Peak DC charging |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pro | RWD, 250 kW | 76 kWh gross LFP | 288 miles | 6.9 sec | 150 kW, 10 to 80% in 30 min |
| Pro+ | RWD, 267 kW | 100 kWh gross NCM | 366 miles | 6.5 sec | 400 kW, 10 to 80% in 18 min |
| Premium | RWD, 267 kW | 100 kWh gross NCM | 366 miles | 6.5 sec | 400 kW, 10 to 80% in 18 min |
| Pulse | AWD, 432 kW | 100 kWh gross NCM | 335 miles | 4.9 sec | 400 kW, 10 to 80% in 18 min |
| Summit Edition | AWD, official table lists 432 kW | 100 kWh gross NCM | 335 miles | 4.9 sec | 400 kW, 10 to 80% in 18 min |
| BRABUS | AWD, 475 kW | 100 kWh gross NCM | 335 miles | 3.8 sec | 400 kW, 10 to 80% in 18 min |
Range: which version goes farthest?
The Pro+ and Premium lead the range table at up to 366 miles WLTP. Their rear wheel drive layout and official combined consumption of 18.4 kWh per 100 km give them a clear efficiency advantage over the all wheel drive models.
The Pulse, Summit Edition and BRABUS are rated at up to 335 miles WLTP, while the Pro reaches up to 288 miles. That does not make the Pro unsuitable for travel, but it changes the planning margin and frequency of charging stops.
Why real range will be different
WLTP is useful for comparing cars under a common test procedure. It is not a promise that every driver will match the result. Motorway speed, cold weather, heating, steep terrain, tire pressure, wheels, payload and driving style all influence consumption.
Buyers should estimate their most demanding routine trip, not only their average commute. For broader ownership checks, AutoNewsLine's electric and hybrid car buying guide explains battery health, charging compatibility and connected service checks.
Why the 800V charging system matters
The 100 kWh versions use an 800V electrical architecture and can accept up to 400 kW from a compatible DC charger. smart quotes an 18 minute session from 10 to 80 percent under optimal conditions. That is one of the car's most important technical claims.
Peak power is not the same as average charging power. The car may touch its maximum only during part of a session, and the result depends on charger output, battery temperature, starting state of charge and local restrictions. A charger labeled 400 kW also does not guarantee that the car will receive 400 kW throughout the stop.
The Pro is different. Its 76 kWh LFP pack accepts up to 150 kW DC and has a quoted 30 minute 10 to 80 percent time. For context on another performance EV using high voltage charging, see this Hyundai Ioniq 5 N charging and performance review .
AC charging at home and work
The Pro has an 11 kW onboard AC charger, with smart quoting less than 8.5 hours from 10 to 100 percent under optimal conditions. The other lines support up to 22 kW AC, with a stated 10 to 100 percent time of less than 5.5 hours. Access to 22 kW requires compatible three phase electrical service and charging equipment, which many homes do not have.
Performance ranges from quick to extreme
Even the Pro is rated at 250 kW and reaches 62 mph in 6.9 seconds. The Pro+ and Premium improve that to 6.5 seconds. Pulse and Summit Edition add all wheel drive and cut the official time to 4.9 seconds.
The BRABUS sits at the top with 475 kW, 710 Nm and a claimed 3.8 second sprint to 62 mph. That number is dramatic, but acceleration should not be the only purchasing factor. Drivers should consider ride quality, tire replacement cost, range, insurance and how often the extra output can be used safely.
For another take on high output electric SUVs with 800V systems, read AutoNewsLine's Lotus Eletre range and charging guide .
Practicality is the smart #5's quiet strength
Every version has a 630 litre rear cargo area, expanding to 1,530 litres with the rear seats folded. Rear wheel drive versions provide a 72 litre front trunk, while all wheel drive models have 47 litres. The front compartment can keep charging cables separate from luggage.
The official braked towing limit is 1,600 kg across the range, with an unbraked limit of 750 kg stated on the model page. A tow bar is optional on most trims and standard on the Summit Edition according to smart UK. Trailer load reduces range, so route planning and charging access become more important when towing.
The smart #5 also supports vehicle to load, or V2L, allowing the traction battery to power suitable external equipment. This can be useful for laptops, outdoor gear and small appliances. It should not be confused with vehicle to home functionality. For a broader look at practical bidirectional power features, compare the Skoda Peaq V2L and V2H explanation .
Cabin technology takes center stage
In Premium specification, smart highlights two 13 inch OLED displays, including a passenger screen. The available augmented reality head up display projects navigation and vehicle information into the driver's field of view. Ambient Lighting+ offers up to 256 colors, while the Sennheiser system uses 21 speakers and Dolby Atmos.
These features create a strong showroom impression, but interface quality matters more than screen count. During a test drive, check menu response, physical shortcut availability, phone integration, navigation routing, voice recognition and whether the passenger display remains useful rather than distracting.
The Hello smart app can monitor battery state, schedule charging, and remotely start or stop charging where supported. Buyers should confirm phone compatibility, account requirements and whether connected functions depend on a data service or future subscription.
Safety and driver assistance
The smart #5 received a five star Euro NCAP rating in 2025, according to smart UK and Euro NCAP recognition referenced on the official page. The assessment covers occupant protection, vulnerable road user protection and active safety systems under the applicable test protocol.
A rating is valuable comparison evidence, but it does not make the vehicle crash proof. Assistance systems that use cameras, radar and sensors remain support tools. Drivers must remain attentive and understand how lane, speed and parking functions behave in poor weather or unclear road markings.
Which smart #5 line should you choose?
| Priority | Likely best fit | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Lower entry point | Pro | Smaller LFP battery, solid equipment and useful space |
| Maximum official range | Pro+ | 366 mile WLTP rating plus 400 kW charging |
| Range and richer comfort | Premium | Same leading range with luxury focused cabin equipment |
| All wheel drive technology | Pulse | AWD, heat pump and selectable drive modes |
| Outdoor utility | Summit Edition | AWD positioning and standard retractable tow bar per smart UK |
| Maximum performance | BRABUS | 475 kW, 710 Nm and 3.8 second 0 to 62 mph claim |
Editorial view: The Pro+ may be the rational long distance choice because it combines the highest official range with the fastest charging system. Premium is the more comfort focused alternative. Pulse is relevant where AWD traction matters. The correct choice still depends on local prices and standard equipment, which must be verified when ordering.
Pros
- Up to 366 miles of WLTP range
- Very rapid charging claim on 100 kWh versions
- Large rear boot and useful front trunk
- RWD and AWD choices
- V2L and substantial towing capacity
- Five star Euro NCAP rating
Cons
- 400 kW chargers remain uncommon in many regions
- Real range will be lower in demanding conditions
- Large exterior dimensions differ from classic smart cars
- Touchscreen heavy cabin needs a personal test
- Equipment varies significantly by line
- Official Summit Edition power table needs clarification
Seven checks before buying
- Measure your parking space: include the 2,169 mm width with mirrors.
- Map charging: distinguish ordinary rapid chargers from stations that can approach the vehicle's peak.
- Confirm home power: 22 kW AC normally requires three phase supply.
- Request the exact equipment list: website imagery can show optional features.
- Test rear seat and cargo use: bring child seats or representative luggage if relevant.
- Price towing correctly: verify tow bar cost, nose weight, trailer limits and range impact.
- Read warranty terms: smart UK lists an eight year or 100,000 mile high voltage battery warranty with a 70 percent state of health threshold, subject to its conditions.
Watch the smart #5 in motion
This smart #5 driving video shows the vehicle's exterior proportions and road presence. Equipment and specification may vary by market and line.
smart #5 visual gallery
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum range of the smart #5?
The Pro+ and Premium have the highest official range at up to 366 miles WLTP. Pulse, Summit Edition and BRABUS reach up to 335 miles, while Pro is rated at up to 288 miles.
How fast can the smart #5 charge?
The 100 kWh versions support up to 400 kW DC and a quoted 10 to 80 percent time of 18 minutes under optimal conditions. Pro supports up to 150 kW and has a quoted 30 minute time.
What battery does the smart #5 use?
Pro uses a 76 kWh gross LFP battery with 74.4 kWh net capacity. Pro+, Premium, Pulse, Summit Edition and BRABUS use a 100 kWh gross NCM battery with 94 kWh net capacity.
How much cargo space does the smart #5 have?
The rear trunk holds 630 litres and expands to 1,530 litres with the rear seats folded. The front trunk holds 72 litres in RWD versions or 47 litres in AWD versions.
Can the smart #5 tow?
smart lists a maximum braked towing capacity of 1,600 kg and 750 kg unbraked. A tow bar is optional on most lines and standard on Summit Edition according to the UK page.
Is the smart #5 all wheel drive?
Pulse, Summit Edition and BRABUS use all wheel drive. Pro, Pro+ and Premium are rear wheel drive.
Is the smart #5 safe?
The smart #5 achieved a five star Euro NCAP rating in 2025. Buyers should still review the detailed category scores and remember that driver assistance does not replace an attentive driver.
What is the smart #5 battery warranty?
smart UK lists eight years or 100,000 miles for the high voltage battery, with a 70 percent state of health threshold, subject to official warranty conditions.
Final verdict
The smart #5 is not simply a larger smart. It is a serious family EV with long range versions, unusually high peak charging capability, strong cargo volume and a broad spread of drivetrains. Pro+ appears especially compelling for range focused buyers, while Premium adds comfort and BRABUS prioritizes speed.
The numbers also need context. An 18 minute charge requires the right station and battery conditions, WLTP range will vary on the road, and 22 kW home charging is not universally available. Verify the exact line, local equipment, current price and charging access before deciding.
Continue your EV research
Compare the smart #5 with more family and performance EVs on the AutoNewsLine homepage . For current UK configuration, pricing and availability, visit the official smart #5 page .
Verification note: Specifications were checked against smart UK's model and technical specification pages on September 30, 2026. Pricing, equipment, incentives and availability can change. The editorial assessments in this guide are identified as opinion and are not manufacturer claims.
