Editor : Mark K | Cars&TechSG

Fun Facts First

The Smart #5 is ironically the biggest Smart ever built — a mid-size EV SUV on Geely's SEA platform which explains why it drives more like a continental cruiser than a city runabout. It supports 800-V-class ultra-fast charging (often faster than local chargers can supply), packs a tablet-grade Snapdragon infotainment system with real OTA feature updates, and combines Mercedes-Benz Group design with Geely EV engineering — resulting in a surprisingly premium, high-tech SUV that's sized for highways but oddly well-suited to tight parking.

Smart's lineup has evolved quickly — from the compact Smart #1 to the slightly larger Smart #3, and now the #5 arrives as the clear big brother flagship. This is no longer a tiny urban pod; it's a full-size family EV with genuine presence, premium ambitions, and technology that feels closer to luxury brands than entry EV crossovers.

First Impressions

At first glance, the Smart #5 signals a clear shift away from the brand's small-car roots. Its upright, squared silhouette is paired with smooth surfacing, giving the SUV a sense of solidity while still looking clean and contemporary. With a roughly 2,900 mm wheelbase and about 4.7 m overall length, the proportions create a planted, confident stance that feels substantial and usable on the road without appearing overly aggressive.

From the side, the body appears almost monolithic, broken up only by subtle contouring and contrasting elements that prevent it from looking slab-sided.

Front and rear, the #5 stands out with identical oblong lighting motifs — full-width graphic light bars that elegantly span the face and tail of the vehicle. These signatures fuse with four distinct light elements embedded in the design, creating a distinctive, almost playful yet sophisticated visual identity that's unmistakably Smart.

Smart pays strong attention to detail: the panoramic halo roof visually lifts the roofline and creates an airy look from the side; frameless doors and flush door handles enhance both aerodynamics and the sleek side profile; and floating wheel caps with centre Smart logos remain upright even when rotating — a small but premium flair not often seen in this segment.

Interior Impressions

Step inside, and the #5 reveals a spacious, tech-savvy cabin. This is no longer the cramped interior Smart was known for — it feels like a modern SUV lounge with premium touches throughout.

• Seating & Comfort: Front seats are wide, cushiony, and supportive, while rear seats are electronically adjustable — a rarity in this segment — and offer generous legroom and comfort. Even long journeys feel effortless. Rear passengers benefit from two USB-C charging ports, making the car convenient for families or commuters.

• Technology & Controls: The infotainment system is smooth, fast, and tablet-like, with over-the-air updates that can add functionality. The driver display is perfectly sized, showing speed, range, and navigation clearly. Physical buttons on the steering wheel allow easy access to volume, cruise control, menus, and favorite shortcuts, reducing distraction while driving.

Boot Practicality

Practicality is another area where the #5 shines:

• Rear boot: 630 litres — more than enough for luggage, groceries, or sports gear

• Frunk: 72 litres — perfect for smaller items or a shopping run

Combined with thoughtful interior storage, the car is suitable for family trips, weekend getaways, or city errands. It's a far cry from earlier Smart models, proving that space and utility don't have to compromise style.

On Road Performance: 

The Smart #5 delivers a mature and refined driving experience that matches its size and premium ambitions.

• Acceleration & Power Delivery: Thanks to its 800-V electrical architecture, the #5 accelerates instantly and smoothly, achieving a century sprint timing of 6.9s. City driving is effortless, and overtakes on highways are confident. Power delivery is well-calibrated, avoiding the jerky feel common in some EVs, subject to your level of regenerative braking.

• Steering & Handling: Steering is precise, responsive, and predictable. The SUV's height introduces only minimal body roll, while the chassis remains composed and planted. Lane changes, corners, and tight city streets are handled with confidence.

• Ride Comfort & Suspension: The suspension balances comfort and control, absorbing bumps without compromising handling. Road imperfections are almost 80% smoothed out, making long drives comfortable yet reassuringly solid.

• Overall Driving Character: While not a sports SUV, the #5's driving character prioritises stability, comfort, and versatility. It's agile enough for urban roads, stable on highways, and delivers a satisfying, predictable driving experience.

The Bottom Line:

The Smart #5 is a milestone for the brand: a fully grown SUV that blends space, technology, premium feel, and a unique design identity. It may overwhelm some drivers with its extensive safety alerts and possibly the higher road tax but ergonomics, build quality, and driving experience feel refined and well thought-out. Stylish, practical, and tech-forward, the #5 is arguably the most complete and appealing modern Smart yet — a car that finally makes the brand feel grown-up while staying recognisably playful.

Check out more images of the ride at our Instagram Page!

For more information, visit https://sg.smart.com/model-hashtag-five or contact us via email or Instagram DM!