Words: Kyle Cassidy
Published 8 June 2026
Smart has launched its largest model yet in New Zealand, with the #5 arriving in dealerships nationwide.
Described as a ‘medium-to-large’ SUV, it joins the existing smart #1 and #3 models.
It’s positioned at the ‘upper end’ of the electric SUV market, and the #5 will be offered in three variants: the entry-level Pro+, the ‘family-focused’ Premium, and the range-topping BRABUS performance model.
All variants are built around a 100kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack and feature the usual driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, parking assistance technology, over-the-air software updates and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The entry-level Pro+ is priced from $79,990 plus on-road costs and offers a claimed WLTP driving range of up to 540km. Standard equipment includes a panoramic glass roof, wireless phone charging, remote parking capability, a 13-inch OLED infotainment display and Vehicle-to-Load functionality. All models have a five star Euro NCAP rating.
Sitting in the middle of the range, the Premium variant is designed to appeal to families and long-distance travellers. Priced from $89,990 plus on-road costs, it somehow extends the WLTP range to a claimed 590km from the same battery capacity while using the same 267kW rear mounted motor. It adds a more luxurious cabin featuring dual 13-inch OLED displays, a head-up display and a 20-speaker Sennheiser audio system with Dolby Atmos technology.
Read more – 2025 Smart #1 Premium & #3 Premium Review
Smart says the #5 has ‘generous cabin space’ and a towing capacity of up to 1600kg. The Premium also includes a 360-degree camera system, 12 parking sensors and Smart Pilot Assist driver assistance technology. The warranty period is five year / 150,00km for all variants.
BRABUS brings supercar-rivalling performance
For buyers wanting maximum performance, the flagship BRABUS model delivers the firepower.
Priced from $99,990 plus on-road costs, the dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain produces up to 475kW and launches from 0-100km/h in a claimed 3.8 seconds.
While performance is the headline attraction, the BRABUS retains the same technology suite and practicality as the rest of the range, adding unique styling elements and a more aggressive character.
Fast charging
The #5 uses an 800-volt electrical architecture, enabling fast DC charging of up to 400kW (AC 22kW). Under ideal conditions, smart says the battery can be replenished from 10 to 80 percent in as little as 18 minutes.
With pricing spanning from just under $80,000 to $100,000, the smart #5 enters a fiercely contested segment that includes the likes of the BYD Sealion 7 Performance, Model Y L and Performance variants, Zeekr 7X Performance, Cadillac Lyriq and Polestar4.
