After its global debut in Australia last year, the smart #5 is now poised for a Malaysian entry — teased on smart Malaysia’s social platforms with the message: “Bold new adventures are just ahead. The spirit of discovery is calling – are you ready?”
The smart #5 represents a significant evolution for the brand, both in scale and in character. This third SUV from smart is the company’s largest production model to date, measuring 4,705 mm in length—making it substantially longer than the smart #3 by 265 mm. Notably, it also surpasses other well-known rivals in the segment, such as the Honda CR-V, in terms of length, underscoring the #5’s commanding road presence.
Visually, the #5 takes a rugged and assertive design approach. The front and rear ends are defined by squared-off lighting elements connected by a full-width transparent strip, which integrates distinctive oblong light clusters. Adding to its bold demeanour is a protruding centre bumper section that evokes the look of a bull bar, enhancing the vehicle’s off-road-ready styling. Along the flanks, the SUV features subtly flared fenders and a unique kink in the window line that flows into thick D-pillars, each adorned with a smart logo. Additional design highlights include two-tone rectangular door mirrors and a triangular embellishment on the front fender, while flush pop-out door handles and frameless windows contribute to its premium appeal. The SUV also features floating wheel centre caps, inspired by Rolls-Royce, which remain upright while the wheels are in motion.
A special Summit Edition will also be available, featuring the Adventurers’ Collection package designed for off-road excursions. This variant is equipped with a roof carrier, rugged side steps, a roof-mounted light bar, and ladders on both sides. It also includes underbody protection and a power-retractable tow hook. The smart #5 boasts a towing capacity of up to 1,600kg, cementing its credentials as a practical adventure companion.
The interior of the #5 has been engineered for maximum comfort and technological sophistication. A distinctive oblong dashboard accommodates a trio of large digital screens: a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster and dual 13-inch AMOLED touchscreens for the centre and passenger displays, each with 2.5K resolution. The infotainment system features a newly developed “Crystal Prism” interface that introduces a lion avatar named Leo—replacing the fox and cheetah avatars found in the smart #1 and #3. This new system runs on the AMD V2000 processor, offering almost double the computing performance of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8295 chip. The interface also includes advanced dynamic 3D graphics powered by the Unreal Engine.
Adding to the high-tech offering is a 25.6-inch augmented reality head-up display and a Sennheiser Signature Sound System comprising 20 speakers. A rising centre speaker is integrated into the dashboard, while a detachable portable speaker and a built-in 1080p projector complete the cabin’s immersive entertainment setup. The use of ambient lighting that pulses with music enhances the in-car atmosphere, while optional oak wood trim and leather upholstery with V-shaped stitching elevate the sense of luxury. Front passengers benefit from so-called zero-gravity seats that recline up to 121 degrees, while rear seat passengers are treated to reclining seatbacks and a one-touch comfort mode that reallocates space for additional legroom. Storage capacity is generous, with the boot offering up to 1,530 litres, complemented by 110 litres of underfloor space and a 72-litre front compartment.
Although official technical specifications have yet to be announced for the Malaysian market, details from China’s market provide insight into what may be expected. The smart #5 will reportedly be offered with a range of powertrain options, beginning with rear-wheel-drive configurations delivering either 340PS. An all-wheel-drive version rated at 587PS is also listed, while the flagship Brabus variant generating a formidable 646PS.
Battery options are also varied. The smart #5 will feature a 100 kWh battery capable of delivering a driving range of up to 740km on China’s CLTC cycle, though this figure will likely be closer to 550km under the more stringent WLTP standard. A smaller 76 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery is also reportedly planned. For charging, the vehicle debuts smart’s first 800-volt electrical architecture, enabling ultra-fast 4C DC charging at up to 400 kW. This allows the battery to be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in just 15 minutes, promising quick turnarounds for long-distance drivers.
As anticipation builds, the smart #5 appears set to make a compelling case for itself in Malaysia’s increasingly competitive EV segment. With its blend of advanced technology, premium design, and off-road capability, it marks a bold new chapter in smart’s evolution from compact city cars to high-tech, lifestyle-oriented electric SUVs. Further details, including pricing and variant availability, are expected to follow in the coming weeks.
