2026 Smart #5 Review: A Bold Electric SUV Contender

A stunning and seriously capable electric SUV debut.

2026 Smart #5 electric SUV front three-quarter studio shot

Everything you remember about Smart? Bin it. The 2026 #5 is a full-size electric SUV that jumps straight into the deep end with the segment’s biggest players. It’s got the looks, the tech-laden and roomy cabin, and a powertrain line-up that spans sensible to downright savage. Pair a top-shelf safety rating with a battery offering nearly 600 clicks of range, and you’ve got a seriously compelling package that anyone shopping for a premium family EV needs to put on their shortlist.

Exterior Design and Road Presence

The transformation is complete. Where the fortwo was tiny, the #5 is a substantial, commanding SUV. Its design walks a fine line between futuristic aggression and clean, premium lines. Up front, a full-width LED light bar frames an illuminated Smart badge, giving it a striking signature after dark. The headlights are sharp and flow neatly into the sculpted face, with a muscular bumper adding a rugged edge.

The proportions are spot-on. A long 2,900 mm wheelbase and short overhangs give it a planted, stable stance. Flush door handles, optional two-tone paint, and a floating roof effect dial up the sophistication. It looks aerodynamic yet tough, with black cladding hinting at some adventurous intent. During our preview, it drew plenty of stares—more like a concept car that escaped the show than a typical crossover.

Around back, the theme continues with another full-width light bar, an integrated spoiler, and a clean, uncluttered tailgate. It all hangs together cohesively, avoiding the fussy styling that afflicts some rivals. The #5’s design isn’t just for show; it’s a clear statement that Smart is here to compete.

Interior, Tech and Cabin Comfort

Slip inside and the premium intent hits you. The cabin is a masterclass in minimalist tech, dominated by a large, responsive touchscreen and a crisp digital instrument cluster. Higher trims add a display for the passenger, creating an immersive cockpit vibe. The materials are a huge leap forward—soft-touch surfaces, quality leather, brushed metal, and ambient lighting that can completely change the cabin’s character.

Storage is a genuine highlight, with a claimed 34 compartments dotted throughout. The centre console is clever, with multiple tiers, deep cupholders, and a wireless charging pad. The flat EV floor means rear passengers get excellent legroom and a comfy, bench-like seat. Headroom is generous, even with the optional panoramic glass roof, which floods the cabin with light and makes it feel airy.

The tech suite is slick. The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, native apps, and over-the-air updates. It’s hooked up to a superb Sennheiser sound system on premium trims. We found the voice assistant handled basic commands well, and the 360-degree camera system gives crystal-clear views, making parking this big bus a doddle. It’s a cabin that feels both modern and easy to use.

Battery, Range and Charging

The battery strategy is central to the #5’s appeal. The entry Pro trim uses a 74.4 kWh pack on a 400V system, delivering a still-respectable WLTP range of around 463 km. Step up to the Pro+, Premium, or performance trims and you get a 94 kWh battery on a clever 800V platform. That unlocks a WLTP range of up to 590 km—enough to silence range anxiety on even the longest Aussie road trips.

Charging is where the 800V models really shine. With a peak DC rate of 400 kW, the #5 can rocket from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes under ideal conditions. That’s a coffee stop, not a lunch break. The base Pro model, with its 150 kW peak, is still competitive, doing the same deed in about 20 minutes. This flexibility across the range means long-distance travel is genuinely practical, no matter the trim.

Performance and On-Road Feel

Performance runs from brisk to breathtaking. The rear-drive Pro+ and Premium trims, with 267 kW, are smooth and punchy, with instant torque for confident overtakes. The all-wheel-drive Pulse and Summit editions ramp it up to 432 kW, hitting 100 km/h in under five seconds. Then there’s the Brabus-tuned beast: 475 kW and a neck-snapping 3.8-second dash to 100. The acceleration is silent, seamless, and utterly addictive.

On the road, the #5 strikes a capable balance. The low-slung battery keeps the centre of gravity down, so it feels planted and stable in corners. The steering is direct and well-weighted. Our early drive suggests the ride is tuned more for sport than plush; it can feel firm on Australia’s patchwork of road surfaces, especially on the optional 21-inch wheels. That said, it never becomes uncomfortable. Noise insulation is top-shelf, creating a quiet cabin at highway speeds. The regenerative braking is well-judged, with a satisfying one-pedal mode that’s perfect for city traffic.

At a Glance: Smart #5 vs Direct Rivals

Smart #5 Pro+ Tesla Model Y RWD :— :— ~AUD 75,000 (est) ~AUD 60,868 94 kWh ~60 kWh ~589 km ~455 km 267 kW 220 kW 6.5 s 6.9 s 400 kW 250 kW 630 L 854 L

Smart #5 vs BYD Atto 3: Which Is Better?

This comparison pits a fresh premium contender against Australia’s most popular electric vehicle. The BYD Atto 3 is the value benchmark, while the Smart #5 aims to rewrite the rules for what you get further up the price ladder.

Price is the first big differentiator. The Atto 3 kicks off around AUD 39,990, making it heaps more affordable than the estimated ~AUD 65,000 start for the base Smart #5 Pro. That gap immediately sets their positions: the Atto 3 is a mainstream value play; the #5 is a premium, feature-rich SUV.

Size is next. The Smart #5 is in a different league—it’s over 240 mm longer, with a 200 mm longer wheelbase. That translates straight to a more spacious cabin, especially for rear passengers, and a bigger boot—630 litres versus the Atto 3’s 440 litres. For families, that’s a tangible, practical win for the #5.

The battery and range story separates them further. The Atto 3’s 60.5 kWh LFP battery gives a WLTP range of 420 km, which is solid for its class. The Smart #5 Pro, though, packs a 74.4 kWh unit for 463 km, and the Pro+ leaps to 94 kWh for a massive 589 km range. If long trips and minimising charging stops matter, the #5 plays in a completely different ballpark.

Charging speed highlights the generational gap. The Atto 3 peaks at 150 kW DC, needing about 30 minutes for a 10-80% charge. The 800V Smart #5 models can hit 400 kW and do the same job in 18 minutes. Even the 400V #5 Pro’s ~20-minute time is quicker. The #5 makes high-speed charging a core part of the deal.

Inside, the tech and material quality in the Smart #5 feel a clear cut above. The Atto 3’s rotating screen and funky interior are charming, but the #5’s dual-display setup, nicer finishes, and more polished software deliver a more premium vibe. The Smart’s Sennheiser audio and extensive ambient lighting also lift the cabin ambience.

On the road, the Atto 3 is perfectly capable for daily duties. The Smart #5, especially in higher trims, offers a more engaging and refined drive. Its platform feels more sorted, with better noise insulation and a more planted, secure feel at highway speeds. The performance gap widens dramatically with the #5’s AWD and Brabus versions, which are from another dimension entirely.

Finally, safety is a clear win for the Smart #5. It copped a 5-star Euro NCAP rating with an exceptional 93% for child occupant protection and 92% for safety assist—the highest scores in its class for 2025. The Atto 3 also has 5 stars, but the Smart’s numbers are among the best of any car tested recently.

Safety, Warranty and Ownership

Safety is a standout for the #5. As verified by Euro NCAP in 2025, it earned a 5-star rating—the highest score of any large SUV tested that year. The numbers are staggering: 93% for child occupant protection (top of class across *any* segment) and 92% for safety assist systems, including a 97% score for its Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB). It’s loaded with tech, from adaptive cruise and lane-keeping aids to blind-spot monitoring and a driver monitoring system.

Ownership in Australia will be backed by a solid warranty. While local terms are still to be confirmed, European models offer an 8-year/160,000 km battery warranty and a 5-year/unlimited km vehicle warranty, which sets a strong expectation. The brand’s shift to a premium EV maker suggests a commitment to backing these cars long-term. Over-the-air updates will also keep the software and features fresh.

Should You Buy It? Who the Smart #5 Is For

The 2026 Smart #5 isn’t for the buyer shopping purely on price. It’s for the tech-savvy early adopter who wants the latest in EV architecture and design. It’s for the growing family that needs space, safety, and a quiet, comfy cabin without ditching style. It’s for the driving enthusiast who fancies blistering performance from the Brabus model.

If you’re cross-shopping a Tesla Model Y or a Kia EV6 and reckon they’ve become a bit common, the #5 offers a fresh, head-turning alternative with arguably more impressive tech specs. It makes a statement. It’s for the buyer who values innovation and is willing to pay for a more premium, capable, and future-ready electric SUV.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much will the 2026 Smart #5 cost in Australia?

Official Australian pricing is still under wraps. Based on UK and European pricing, we’re expecting the range to start at roughly AUD 65,000 for the base Pro trim, climbing to around AUD 95,000 for the top-spec Brabus and Summit Editions.

What is the real-world range of the Smart #5?

Real-world range will depend on your driving style, the weather, and wheel size. That said, the 94 kWh models should comfortably crack over 500 km in mixed driving, with efficient pilots potentially getting close to the 589 km WLTP claim.

Does the Smart #5 have a front trunk (frunk)?

Yep, all models get a small but handy 47-litre front trunk, perfect for stashing charging cables or a small bag.

How does the Smart #5 charge so quickly?

The Pro+, Premium, Pulse, Summit, and Brabus trims run an 800-volt electrical architecture. This higher voltage allows for much zippier charging at compatible DC stations, enabling a 10-80% top-up in just 18 minutes.

Is the Smart #5 bigger than a Tesla Model Y?

The Smart #5 is a touch shorter overall but packs a longer wheelbase. That usually means more rear legroom in the Smart. The Tesla Model Y has a larger boot capacity overall.

What is the warranty on the Smart #5?

While Australian details are still pending, the European warranties give a strong guide: an 8-year/160,000 km battery warranty and a 5-year/unlimited km vehicle warranty.

How does the Smart #5 compare to the BYD Sealion 7?

The BYD Sealion 7 is a closer rival in size and price to the entry-level Smart #5. The #5 generally offers faster charging (400 kW vs 230 kW), more advanced interior tech, and a higher safety rating. The Sealion 7, however, will likely undercut it on price.