The premium electric SUV market in Australia is preparing for a major shake-up with the confirmed arrival of the 2027 Smart #5. Expected in local showrooms between October and December 2026, the mid-size family SUV marks a significant brand reset for Smart, transforming it from a city-car specialist into a genuine rival to the Tesla Model Y.
Now operating as a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Geely, Smart is targeting the highly competitive mid-size electric segment. The #5 brings bold styling, exceptional charging speeds, and a luxurious cabin experience that leverages Mercedes-Benz design expertise alongside Geely’s advanced electric architecture.
Pricing and positioning
While official Australian pricing is yet to be finalised, industry expectations place the entry-level Smart #5 in the low-$60,000 bracket before on-road costs. This strategic positioning places it in direct competition with the Tesla Model Y Premium RWD and its platform sibling, the Zeekr 7X.
To make room for the new flagship, Smart has permanently reduced pricing on its smaller #1 and #3 SUVs, creating a clear runway for the #5 to become the brand’s premium offering in Australia. The vehicle will be sold through Smart’s boutique network, which operates out of major Mercedes-Benz dealerships in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Battery options and exceptional range
Australian government approval documents reveal that up to six variants of the Smart #5 have been cleared for local sale, spanning two battery sizes and offering both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.
The entry-level Pro variant utilises a 76kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery paired with a 250kW rear motor, delivering a highly respectable 465 kilometres of WLTP range. However, it is the larger battery options that truly stand out in the segment.
Higher grades upgrade to a massive 100kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery pack. In the single-motor Pro+ and Premium+ trims, this larger battery yields an impressive 590 kilometres of WLTP range — placing it among the longest-range electric SUVs in its class.
| Battery Option | Drivetrain | Range (WLTP) | 0-100km/h |
|---|---|---|---|
| 76kWh LFP | 250kW RWD | 465 km | 6.9 sec |
| 100kWh NMC | 267kW RWD | 590 km | 6.5 sec |
| 100kWh NMC | 432kW AWD | 540 km | 4.9 sec |
| 100kWh NMC (Brabus) | 475kW AWD | 540 km | 3.8 sec |
Ultra-fast charging capability
For drivers who frequently travel long distances, the Smart #5 introduces benchmark-setting charging speeds. The 100kWh battery variants feature an advanced 800-volt electrical architecture capable of accepting up to 400kW of DC fast charging.
When connected to an appropriate ultra-rapid charger, this system can replenish the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in under 18 minutes. Even the entry-level 76kWh battery offers a competitive 150kW peak charge rate, taking less than 30 minutes for a standard top-up. This makes charging the electric car on road trips faster and more convenient than ever.
Premium interior and technology
Inside the cabin, the Mercedes-Benz design influence is obvious. The Smart #5 offers a genuinely premium environment that elevates it above many mainstream competitors. Even base models are expected to feature a 13-inch central touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic glass roof as standard.
Higher-specification models introduce luxury features rarely seen at this price point, including a dedicated 13-inch entertainment screen for the front passenger, an augmented-reality head-up display, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a premium 20-speaker Sennheiser audio system.
For those seeking maximum performance, the flagship Brabus variant turns up the heat with a staggering 475kW dual-motor setup, accelerating from 0-100km/h in just 3.8 seconds. It also adds aggressive 21-inch wheels, red brake calipers, and bespoke microfibre interior trim.
The 2027 Smart #5 represents a compelling new option for Australian families seeking a premium, spacious, and ultra-fast charging electric SUV. If you want to experience the benefits of electric driving before the #5 arrives, you can rent an EV through evee today and discover how seamlessly an electric vehicle fits into your lifestyle.
