Latest news with #Smart#5
Stuff.tv
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Stuff.tv
The Smart #5 Brabus was hilariously quick, but this electric SUV has way more power than I need
Stuff Verdict The Brabus edition has beefiness to spare, but is arguably overkill. More sensible buyers should head for the Smart #5 with less oomph and extended range. Pros Looks the part if you like quirkiness Well put together and super comfy Lots of room inside and quite practical Cons Feels big and heavy – because it is If there's such a thing as too much power, this Brabus edition found it Not particularly efficient to drive Introduction I rather liked the Smart #1 and #3 EV's with their quirky styling and decent performance. Both were quite roomy too, but anyone in need of more space should head in the direction of the new Smart #5. This is a sizeable electric SUV that offers up lots more space, although that also means more bulk thanks to a chunky design. I've just driven it on a lot of country lanes though and, boy, it was a bit of a tight fit in places. The Smart #5 will be available for the UK market in six different model variants. While pricing is yet to be firmed up, top of the pile will definitely be the Brabus edition. It packs in more performance – a lot more – along with lots of cosmetic embellishments. A 94kW battery pack makes it good for up to 338 miles or 366 miles in the Pro+ and Premium editions. The Smart #5 marks a slight departure from the styling of the Smart #1 and #3 but, thanks to a very distinctive front and rear end, it oozes lots of personality. When it comes to kit, this car arrives full loaded. Sumptuous leather seats plus a 20-speaker Sennheiser sound system and an imposing duo of 13in OLED centre and passenger screens are highlights, but all trim levels are impressive. How we test cars Every electric car reviewed on Stuff is tested on a range of road surfaces and, where possible, in varying weather conditions. We use our years of experience to compare with rivals and assess ergonomics, technology features and general usability. Manufacturers have no visibility on reviews before they appear online, and we never accept payment to feature products. Find out more about how we test and rate products. The styling I quite liked the slightly quirky styling lines of the earlier Smart hashtag models, but the Smart #5 takes things in a slightly different direction. This D-segment whopper is loosely a mid-to-large size SUV, with more of a leaning towards the large end. As a result, I realised I was going to have a bit of a task on my hands persuading this minor monster to get through countryside lanes that were barely any wider than the 1.9-metre width of the #5. Some of the Brabus edition's styling tweaks are a bit too lairy for my taste; I actually prefer the trim levels below this car, which start out (curiously) with the Pro edition. That's also got a smaller 75kWh battery delivering 288 miles. Those without the need for attention might be better off going in that direction. In the middle are the rear-wheel drive Pro+ and Premium trims, which offer better range from a bigger battery. It's a slightly confusing trim line-up, I think. What all the variants do have though is dramatic looks, which rely on smoothed-off boxy edges, especially around the rear pillar and back end. That quite enclosed rear section, plus a length of 4.7-metres can make the Smart #5 feel a little intimidating to drive, but anyone who's driven a Mercedes EQB or Kia EV6 shouldn't feel too put off as it's got that kind of stature. The high roof delivers lots of space inside and all cars have a premium finish, both inside and out. However, the Brabus trim is much more ostentatious and, well, most of it works if you like that sort of thing. The drive Anyone wanting to show off will be more than happy with the Brabus edition. It's got all the get up and go anyone could ever wish for, with silly acceleration and an impressive top end. Better still, it's built on 800 volt architecture, which means it's quick to charge when the time comes around. Right up to a mental 426kWh is possible, but you'll more likely be enjoying up to 150kW around the UK. Of course, being a Brabus derivative, that performance is a little over the top when the car is pushed. Sure, it drives nicely enough if things are taken easily, but if the red mist descends this car turns into a rocket ship. This is boosted further by the dual motor, four-wheel drive powertrain, which is much more gnarly than the lower trim models. There are 21in wheels though, and a sporty suspension setup that can feel quite brutal on, for example, cobbled surfaces or when heading over speed bumps. It's like lighting on the motorway, mind. I tried the Smart #5 in all its various drive modes, with Comfort being the obvious choice for everyday motoring. However, it was hard not to select the Brabus drive mode for a good chunk of my experience. The downside of having fun in this edition is the way the efficiency isn't much to write home about. Nevertheless, I spent a long time behind the wheel of my car, doing a lot of miles into the bargain, and still returned home with 30-odd percent. That'll make it a hit with show-off day trippers. The technology Smart always packs in plenty of tech with any new model and the #5 comes with everything we've seen in the Smart #1 and #3, only dialled up another notched or two. Even more so in the Brabus trim. The dashboard layout might not be for everybody though. Aside from the driver's dials, it's dominated by a pair of landscape screens next to each other. The one closest to the driver has all the core controls, while the other is aimed at entertaining passengers. This seems like a great idea, but I found the colourful graphics displaying movie posters glowing there on the other side of the dash a bit of a distraction. The other issue I encountered was dealing with control settings in the screen menus that didn't feel very intuitive or easy to tackle on the move. Smart has made quick routes into these with more condensed menus along the bottom but, even then, it didn't feel that easy. I also struggled with the sat-nav when I missed some waypoints, which turned a seemingly straightforward journey into something way more complicated. Smart #5 verdict Overall, the Smart #5 feels like a strong proposition and, in the Brabus guise, feels like overkill in the power department. The novelty value of the rapid acceleration is fun for about five minutes, but if you've got kids on board, it could be a recipe for triggering motion sickness. However, anyone with a family will love the copious amounts of space on offer within the Smart #5. This is a surprisingly practical car underneath the loutish trim. I'd look at the lower tier models as they're just as good and pack in extra range too. Stuff Says… Category A: 4/5 The Brabus edition has beefiness to spare, but is arguably overkill. More sensible buyers should head for the Smart #5 with less oomph and extended range. Pros Looks the part if you like quirkiness Well put together and super comfy Lots of room inside and quite practical Cons Feels big and heavy – because it is If there's such a thing as too much power, this Brabus edition found it Not particularly efficient to drive Smart #5 Brabus technical specifications Powertrain Permanent magnet synchronous motor Battery 94kWh Power 637bhp Torque 524lb-ft 0-62mph 3.8sec Top speed 130mph Range 335 miles Charge rate 426kW Cargo volume 630 litres
The Advertiser
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
2025 Smart #5 review: Quick drive
Once upon a time, Smart was a brand that specialised in small city cars, but modern legislation and market forces have coaxed the company into a change of tack. Not only are the existing Smart #1 and Smart #3 compact electric SUVs much more family-sized than many of the products Smart has previously built, but the new 2025 Smart #5 really is a big electric SUV. Although it looks smaller than most, it's much the same size as the Volkswagen ID.4, and it's every bit as spacious inside, so it's very different from the cars Smart was previously known for. The question is whether the new-look brand can capture buyers' imaginations in the same way, and whether the #5 is capable of mixing it with the more established products it wishes to challenge. To find out, we headed to Portugal for the global launch of the #5, where we tested a European-specification car in top-of-the-range, high-performance Brabus form. Sportier styling and higher power output aside, it's little different from other variants in the range, and gave us a good opportunity to try out all the #5 has to offer in every situation, from country roads and urban streets to gravel tracks and highways, before the model's Australian release. Smart is yet to confirm pricing for the #5 in Australia, but we're expecting the mid-size electric SUV to start somewhere around the $70,000 mark, or just above the smaller #3. We're also expecting a pretty generous standard specification, with 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic roof and parking sensors at the front and rear all expected to feature. That's all going to sit alongside a massive 13-inch infotainment touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster and dual-zone climate control, as well as wireless phone charging, synthetic leather upholstery and over-the-air software updates. Smart's new look is modern and clean, and that's as true of the #5's interior as it is of the exterior styling. So, you'll find neat, rounded shapes and a relatively button-free dashboard, with a simple three-spoke steering wheel and most of the controls living on the touchscreen. And it's a sizeable touchscreen, measuring 13 inches diagonally, complete with the latest software and a quick processor, as well as Smart's latest-generation voice assistant, which takes the form of a lion avatar that prowls the menus. In truth, some of that stuff is a bit gimmicky, despite the cleverness of the technology, and the lion thing is a little distracting if we're honest. But it isn't as distracting as the passenger display that's fitted to some of the more upmarket grades as standard in Europe, including the range-topping Brabus cars. Whereas some brands put a kind of polarising film on their passenger displays, preventing the driver from seeing what's there, there's no such protection on the Smart's system, leaving the driver with every chance of rubbernecking at whatever film or game the passenger is playing. It's a nice idea, then, but it feels as though it needs a little refinement. In fairness, though, Smart says the technology isn't entirely complete and will be updated ahead of the car's market introduction later this year. And while we can find faults with the two main touchscreens, the responses are sharp, and even the touchscreen climate control system isn't too difficult to adjust. On top of all that, we've nothing but praise for the head-up display and the digital instrument cluster. We're impressed with the cabin quality, too, which is every bit as good as we've seen in the #1 and #3 models. Most of the materials, with only a couple of exceptions, are remarkably good, including the seat upholstery and most of the plastics. Combined with the airiness provided by the glass roof, it makes the #5's cabin feel decidedly upmarket. But the overwhelming sense is one of space. The room inside the #5 is staggeringly good, with huge amounts of rear legroom and headroom, as well as plenty of space for those in the front. It's only a five-seater, which might disappoint some, but those five people will have plenty of room. Even the middle seat in the second row is reasonably comfortable. Luggage capacity is pretty good, too, with a 630-litre boot in all versions of the #5. That means it's considerably more spacious than the boot in a VW ID.4, and that space is joined by a 'frunk' under the bonnet. Exactly how big that frunk is will depend on which version you choose – the all-wheel drive cars get less space than the rear-wheel drive cars, but Smart reckons the standard rear-drive variant's frunk is big enough for the kind of carry-on suitcase you see airline passengers using every day. We suspect it'll probably be used for cable storage by most, but it'll offer useful carrying capacity nonetheless. Full specifications have not yet been confirmed for the Australian market, but in Europe the #5 will be offered with a choice of two different batteries. There's a base grade with a 74kWh unit that may or may not come to Australia, but we're pretty confident the variants with the larger 100kWh battery will arrive on these shores. They're offered with a choice of either single-motor rear-wheel drive, or twin-motor all-wheel drive powertrains, each with varying power outputs. The pinnacle of the lineup is the Brabus, with a generous 475kW from its two motors, but there will be a choice of less powerful options, too. In Europe, for example, the basic RWD version delivers 250kW, while there are also 267kW single-motor and 432kW dual-motor options below the Brabus. In terms of efficiency, the single-motor models offer the best range, with even the smallest battery providing more than 400km of range according to the WLTP economy test. And the dual-motor systems allow the front motor to be detached from the powertrain when it isn't needed, reducing mechanical drag and thereby making it as efficient as possible. Even the Brabus will do more than 500km on a charge, with the 100kWh rear-motor option managing 589km between trips to the plug. Although it's big and heavy – the Brabus version weighs roughly the same as a Bentley Flying Spur V8– the #5 is a remarkably comfortable thing. Smart has clearly designed the #5 with ride comfort in mind, and it absorbs bumps with surprising ease, even on massive 21-inch alloy wheels. Admittedly, such large rims and such a bulky kerb weight mean the odd sharper imperfection in the surface will make itself known, but it's generally very good indeed. And while that kind of comfort would cause some cars to feel a bit soft and vague in the corners, the Smart handles pretty well. The steering's weight is good, and even though it feels a little artificial, it's easy to put the #5 exactly where you want it. And that's useful when the car feels every bit as big as its dimensions suggest when you're on the road. Unfortunately, there is a bit of lean in the corners, which in a mid-range model would be forgivable given the comfort credentials, but feels a little disappointing in the Brabus. We're told the suspension settings are identical to other all-wheel drive #5 variants though, so it looks promising for the more popular mid-range grades. Clearly, those versions will not be as fast as the Brabus, which has a frankly obscene amount of power for something of this size. Yes, the car is heavy, but 475kW is unnecessary in something like this. Happily, the AWD powertrain is just about capable of dealing with that kind of power, and it enables stomach-churning standing-start acceleration that sees the car hit 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds. Nobody needs to go that quickly, but even the base model, with 250kW and just the one electric motor, still gets to 100km/h in less than seven seconds. With the instant response of an electric powertrain, the car will be more than punchy enough no matter which version you choose. It'll be quiet, too, with acoustically insulated glass that's strikingly thick when you see its cross-section, meaning limited noise from the tyres or the wind. While it may not be quite as refined as some Mercedes-Benz luxury products, it's definitely quiet enough to live up to its semi-premium billing. Smart Australia is yet to confirm which versions of the #5 will come Down Under, but we know the Europe-bound cars get a generous specification and a wide range of different trim levels. 2025 Smart #5 equipment highlights: For Australia, we're expecting a slightly thinned-out lineup, perhaps with three or four different versions. The new #5 is yet to be crash tested either in Australia or in Europe, but Smart's record so far is good. Both the #1 and #3 received five-star ratings when they were put through their paces by ANCAP, and Smart has kitted the new car out with plenty of standard safety equipment. Better still, the company has included a system that allows drivers to choose their preferences for the driver assistance technology, which can be something of an irritant in certain situations. With Smart's touchscreen, however, those preferences can be saved, allowing faster access to drivers' preferred settings. Safety equipment includes: Every Smart currently sold in Australia comes with a five-year, 150,000km warranty, and we're expecting the #5 to be no exception. As with all electric vehicle, low running costs are one of the #5's big selling points, and there's no doubt it'll be considerably less expensive to operate than a similarly powerful petrol car. But alongside other EVs, it won't prove quite so cheap. The battery is much larger than that of, say, an ID.4, so it'll be more expensive to charge, and it won't go any further on a charge. The difference won't be huge, but other electric SUVs will – at least in theory – be slightly cheaper to run. The #5 may not be anything like Smarts of old, but that's no bad thing. A competent, likeable and comfortable electric SUV, it's a worthy rival to the likes of the Volkswagen ID.4 and Nissan Ariya, and it's only a few ergonomic shortcomings away from beating them. Perhaps it isn't the most efficient thing on the road, but its fast-charging capabilities and its pleasant road manners more than make up for Everything Smart Content originally sourced from: Once upon a time, Smart was a brand that specialised in small city cars, but modern legislation and market forces have coaxed the company into a change of tack. Not only are the existing Smart #1 and Smart #3 compact electric SUVs much more family-sized than many of the products Smart has previously built, but the new 2025 Smart #5 really is a big electric SUV. Although it looks smaller than most, it's much the same size as the Volkswagen ID.4, and it's every bit as spacious inside, so it's very different from the cars Smart was previously known for. The question is whether the new-look brand can capture buyers' imaginations in the same way, and whether the #5 is capable of mixing it with the more established products it wishes to challenge. To find out, we headed to Portugal for the global launch of the #5, where we tested a European-specification car in top-of-the-range, high-performance Brabus form. Sportier styling and higher power output aside, it's little different from other variants in the range, and gave us a good opportunity to try out all the #5 has to offer in every situation, from country roads and urban streets to gravel tracks and highways, before the model's Australian release. Smart is yet to confirm pricing for the #5 in Australia, but we're expecting the mid-size electric SUV to start somewhere around the $70,000 mark, or just above the smaller #3. We're also expecting a pretty generous standard specification, with 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic roof and parking sensors at the front and rear all expected to feature. That's all going to sit alongside a massive 13-inch infotainment touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster and dual-zone climate control, as well as wireless phone charging, synthetic leather upholstery and over-the-air software updates. Smart's new look is modern and clean, and that's as true of the #5's interior as it is of the exterior styling. So, you'll find neat, rounded shapes and a relatively button-free dashboard, with a simple three-spoke steering wheel and most of the controls living on the touchscreen. And it's a sizeable touchscreen, measuring 13 inches diagonally, complete with the latest software and a quick processor, as well as Smart's latest-generation voice assistant, which takes the form of a lion avatar that prowls the menus. In truth, some of that stuff is a bit gimmicky, despite the cleverness of the technology, and the lion thing is a little distracting if we're honest. But it isn't as distracting as the passenger display that's fitted to some of the more upmarket grades as standard in Europe, including the range-topping Brabus cars. Whereas some brands put a kind of polarising film on their passenger displays, preventing the driver from seeing what's there, there's no such protection on the Smart's system, leaving the driver with every chance of rubbernecking at whatever film or game the passenger is playing. It's a nice idea, then, but it feels as though it needs a little refinement. In fairness, though, Smart says the technology isn't entirely complete and will be updated ahead of the car's market introduction later this year. And while we can find faults with the two main touchscreens, the responses are sharp, and even the touchscreen climate control system isn't too difficult to adjust. On top of all that, we've nothing but praise for the head-up display and the digital instrument cluster. We're impressed with the cabin quality, too, which is every bit as good as we've seen in the #1 and #3 models. Most of the materials, with only a couple of exceptions, are remarkably good, including the seat upholstery and most of the plastics. Combined with the airiness provided by the glass roof, it makes the #5's cabin feel decidedly upmarket. But the overwhelming sense is one of space. The room inside the #5 is staggeringly good, with huge amounts of rear legroom and headroom, as well as plenty of space for those in the front. It's only a five-seater, which might disappoint some, but those five people will have plenty of room. Even the middle seat in the second row is reasonably comfortable. Luggage capacity is pretty good, too, with a 630-litre boot in all versions of the #5. That means it's considerably more spacious than the boot in a VW ID.4, and that space is joined by a 'frunk' under the bonnet. Exactly how big that frunk is will depend on which version you choose – the all-wheel drive cars get less space than the rear-wheel drive cars, but Smart reckons the standard rear-drive variant's frunk is big enough for the kind of carry-on suitcase you see airline passengers using every day. We suspect it'll probably be used for cable storage by most, but it'll offer useful carrying capacity nonetheless. Full specifications have not yet been confirmed for the Australian market, but in Europe the #5 will be offered with a choice of two different batteries. There's a base grade with a 74kWh unit that may or may not come to Australia, but we're pretty confident the variants with the larger 100kWh battery will arrive on these shores. They're offered with a choice of either single-motor rear-wheel drive, or twin-motor all-wheel drive powertrains, each with varying power outputs. The pinnacle of the lineup is the Brabus, with a generous 475kW from its two motors, but there will be a choice of less powerful options, too. In Europe, for example, the basic RWD version delivers 250kW, while there are also 267kW single-motor and 432kW dual-motor options below the Brabus. In terms of efficiency, the single-motor models offer the best range, with even the smallest battery providing more than 400km of range according to the WLTP economy test. And the dual-motor systems allow the front motor to be detached from the powertrain when it isn't needed, reducing mechanical drag and thereby making it as efficient as possible. Even the Brabus will do more than 500km on a charge, with the 100kWh rear-motor option managing 589km between trips to the plug. Although it's big and heavy – the Brabus version weighs roughly the same as a Bentley Flying Spur V8– the #5 is a remarkably comfortable thing. Smart has clearly designed the #5 with ride comfort in mind, and it absorbs bumps with surprising ease, even on massive 21-inch alloy wheels. Admittedly, such large rims and such a bulky kerb weight mean the odd sharper imperfection in the surface will make itself known, but it's generally very good indeed. And while that kind of comfort would cause some cars to feel a bit soft and vague in the corners, the Smart handles pretty well. The steering's weight is good, and even though it feels a little artificial, it's easy to put the #5 exactly where you want it. And that's useful when the car feels every bit as big as its dimensions suggest when you're on the road. Unfortunately, there is a bit of lean in the corners, which in a mid-range model would be forgivable given the comfort credentials, but feels a little disappointing in the Brabus. We're told the suspension settings are identical to other all-wheel drive #5 variants though, so it looks promising for the more popular mid-range grades. Clearly, those versions will not be as fast as the Brabus, which has a frankly obscene amount of power for something of this size. Yes, the car is heavy, but 475kW is unnecessary in something like this. Happily, the AWD powertrain is just about capable of dealing with that kind of power, and it enables stomach-churning standing-start acceleration that sees the car hit 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds. Nobody needs to go that quickly, but even the base model, with 250kW and just the one electric motor, still gets to 100km/h in less than seven seconds. With the instant response of an electric powertrain, the car will be more than punchy enough no matter which version you choose. It'll be quiet, too, with acoustically insulated glass that's strikingly thick when you see its cross-section, meaning limited noise from the tyres or the wind. While it may not be quite as refined as some Mercedes-Benz luxury products, it's definitely quiet enough to live up to its semi-premium billing. Smart Australia is yet to confirm which versions of the #5 will come Down Under, but we know the Europe-bound cars get a generous specification and a wide range of different trim levels. 2025 Smart #5 equipment highlights: For Australia, we're expecting a slightly thinned-out lineup, perhaps with three or four different versions. The new #5 is yet to be crash tested either in Australia or in Europe, but Smart's record so far is good. Both the #1 and #3 received five-star ratings when they were put through their paces by ANCAP, and Smart has kitted the new car out with plenty of standard safety equipment. Better still, the company has included a system that allows drivers to choose their preferences for the driver assistance technology, which can be something of an irritant in certain situations. With Smart's touchscreen, however, those preferences can be saved, allowing faster access to drivers' preferred settings. Safety equipment includes: Every Smart currently sold in Australia comes with a five-year, 150,000km warranty, and we're expecting the #5 to be no exception. As with all electric vehicle, low running costs are one of the #5's big selling points, and there's no doubt it'll be considerably less expensive to operate than a similarly powerful petrol car. But alongside other EVs, it won't prove quite so cheap. The battery is much larger than that of, say, an ID.4, so it'll be more expensive to charge, and it won't go any further on a charge. The difference won't be huge, but other electric SUVs will – at least in theory – be slightly cheaper to run. The #5 may not be anything like Smarts of old, but that's no bad thing. A competent, likeable and comfortable electric SUV, it's a worthy rival to the likes of the Volkswagen ID.4 and Nissan Ariya, and it's only a few ergonomic shortcomings away from beating them. Perhaps it isn't the most efficient thing on the road, but its fast-charging capabilities and its pleasant road manners more than make up for Everything Smart Content originally sourced from: Once upon a time, Smart was a brand that specialised in small city cars, but modern legislation and market forces have coaxed the company into a change of tack. Not only are the existing Smart #1 and Smart #3 compact electric SUVs much more family-sized than many of the products Smart has previously built, but the new 2025 Smart #5 really is a big electric SUV. Although it looks smaller than most, it's much the same size as the Volkswagen ID.4, and it's every bit as spacious inside, so it's very different from the cars Smart was previously known for. The question is whether the new-look brand can capture buyers' imaginations in the same way, and whether the #5 is capable of mixing it with the more established products it wishes to challenge. To find out, we headed to Portugal for the global launch of the #5, where we tested a European-specification car in top-of-the-range, high-performance Brabus form. Sportier styling and higher power output aside, it's little different from other variants in the range, and gave us a good opportunity to try out all the #5 has to offer in every situation, from country roads and urban streets to gravel tracks and highways, before the model's Australian release. Smart is yet to confirm pricing for the #5 in Australia, but we're expecting the mid-size electric SUV to start somewhere around the $70,000 mark, or just above the smaller #3. We're also expecting a pretty generous standard specification, with 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic roof and parking sensors at the front and rear all expected to feature. That's all going to sit alongside a massive 13-inch infotainment touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster and dual-zone climate control, as well as wireless phone charging, synthetic leather upholstery and over-the-air software updates. Smart's new look is modern and clean, and that's as true of the #5's interior as it is of the exterior styling. So, you'll find neat, rounded shapes and a relatively button-free dashboard, with a simple three-spoke steering wheel and most of the controls living on the touchscreen. And it's a sizeable touchscreen, measuring 13 inches diagonally, complete with the latest software and a quick processor, as well as Smart's latest-generation voice assistant, which takes the form of a lion avatar that prowls the menus. In truth, some of that stuff is a bit gimmicky, despite the cleverness of the technology, and the lion thing is a little distracting if we're honest. But it isn't as distracting as the passenger display that's fitted to some of the more upmarket grades as standard in Europe, including the range-topping Brabus cars. Whereas some brands put a kind of polarising film on their passenger displays, preventing the driver from seeing what's there, there's no such protection on the Smart's system, leaving the driver with every chance of rubbernecking at whatever film or game the passenger is playing. It's a nice idea, then, but it feels as though it needs a little refinement. In fairness, though, Smart says the technology isn't entirely complete and will be updated ahead of the car's market introduction later this year. And while we can find faults with the two main touchscreens, the responses are sharp, and even the touchscreen climate control system isn't too difficult to adjust. On top of all that, we've nothing but praise for the head-up display and the digital instrument cluster. We're impressed with the cabin quality, too, which is every bit as good as we've seen in the #1 and #3 models. Most of the materials, with only a couple of exceptions, are remarkably good, including the seat upholstery and most of the plastics. Combined with the airiness provided by the glass roof, it makes the #5's cabin feel decidedly upmarket. But the overwhelming sense is one of space. The room inside the #5 is staggeringly good, with huge amounts of rear legroom and headroom, as well as plenty of space for those in the front. It's only a five-seater, which might disappoint some, but those five people will have plenty of room. Even the middle seat in the second row is reasonably comfortable. Luggage capacity is pretty good, too, with a 630-litre boot in all versions of the #5. That means it's considerably more spacious than the boot in a VW ID.4, and that space is joined by a 'frunk' under the bonnet. Exactly how big that frunk is will depend on which version you choose – the all-wheel drive cars get less space than the rear-wheel drive cars, but Smart reckons the standard rear-drive variant's frunk is big enough for the kind of carry-on suitcase you see airline passengers using every day. We suspect it'll probably be used for cable storage by most, but it'll offer useful carrying capacity nonetheless. Full specifications have not yet been confirmed for the Australian market, but in Europe the #5 will be offered with a choice of two different batteries. There's a base grade with a 74kWh unit that may or may not come to Australia, but we're pretty confident the variants with the larger 100kWh battery will arrive on these shores. They're offered with a choice of either single-motor rear-wheel drive, or twin-motor all-wheel drive powertrains, each with varying power outputs. The pinnacle of the lineup is the Brabus, with a generous 475kW from its two motors, but there will be a choice of less powerful options, too. In Europe, for example, the basic RWD version delivers 250kW, while there are also 267kW single-motor and 432kW dual-motor options below the Brabus. In terms of efficiency, the single-motor models offer the best range, with even the smallest battery providing more than 400km of range according to the WLTP economy test. And the dual-motor systems allow the front motor to be detached from the powertrain when it isn't needed, reducing mechanical drag and thereby making it as efficient as possible. Even the Brabus will do more than 500km on a charge, with the 100kWh rear-motor option managing 589km between trips to the plug. Although it's big and heavy – the Brabus version weighs roughly the same as a Bentley Flying Spur V8– the #5 is a remarkably comfortable thing. Smart has clearly designed the #5 with ride comfort in mind, and it absorbs bumps with surprising ease, even on massive 21-inch alloy wheels. Admittedly, such large rims and such a bulky kerb weight mean the odd sharper imperfection in the surface will make itself known, but it's generally very good indeed. And while that kind of comfort would cause some cars to feel a bit soft and vague in the corners, the Smart handles pretty well. The steering's weight is good, and even though it feels a little artificial, it's easy to put the #5 exactly where you want it. And that's useful when the car feels every bit as big as its dimensions suggest when you're on the road. Unfortunately, there is a bit of lean in the corners, which in a mid-range model would be forgivable given the comfort credentials, but feels a little disappointing in the Brabus. We're told the suspension settings are identical to other all-wheel drive #5 variants though, so it looks promising for the more popular mid-range grades. Clearly, those versions will not be as fast as the Brabus, which has a frankly obscene amount of power for something of this size. Yes, the car is heavy, but 475kW is unnecessary in something like this. Happily, the AWD powertrain is just about capable of dealing with that kind of power, and it enables stomach-churning standing-start acceleration that sees the car hit 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds. Nobody needs to go that quickly, but even the base model, with 250kW and just the one electric motor, still gets to 100km/h in less than seven seconds. With the instant response of an electric powertrain, the car will be more than punchy enough no matter which version you choose. It'll be quiet, too, with acoustically insulated glass that's strikingly thick when you see its cross-section, meaning limited noise from the tyres or the wind. While it may not be quite as refined as some Mercedes-Benz luxury products, it's definitely quiet enough to live up to its semi-premium billing. Smart Australia is yet to confirm which versions of the #5 will come Down Under, but we know the Europe-bound cars get a generous specification and a wide range of different trim levels. 2025 Smart #5 equipment highlights: For Australia, we're expecting a slightly thinned-out lineup, perhaps with three or four different versions. The new #5 is yet to be crash tested either in Australia or in Europe, but Smart's record so far is good. Both the #1 and #3 received five-star ratings when they were put through their paces by ANCAP, and Smart has kitted the new car out with plenty of standard safety equipment. Better still, the company has included a system that allows drivers to choose their preferences for the driver assistance technology, which can be something of an irritant in certain situations. With Smart's touchscreen, however, those preferences can be saved, allowing faster access to drivers' preferred settings. Safety equipment includes: Every Smart currently sold in Australia comes with a five-year, 150,000km warranty, and we're expecting the #5 to be no exception. As with all electric vehicle, low running costs are one of the #5's big selling points, and there's no doubt it'll be considerably less expensive to operate than a similarly powerful petrol car. But alongside other EVs, it won't prove quite so cheap. The battery is much larger than that of, say, an ID.4, so it'll be more expensive to charge, and it won't go any further on a charge. The difference won't be huge, but other electric SUVs will – at least in theory – be slightly cheaper to run. The #5 may not be anything like Smarts of old, but that's no bad thing. A competent, likeable and comfortable electric SUV, it's a worthy rival to the likes of the Volkswagen ID.4 and Nissan Ariya, and it's only a few ergonomic shortcomings away from beating them. Perhaps it isn't the most efficient thing on the road, but its fast-charging capabilities and its pleasant road manners more than make up for Everything Smart Content originally sourced from: Once upon a time, Smart was a brand that specialised in small city cars, but modern legislation and market forces have coaxed the company into a change of tack. Not only are the existing Smart #1 and Smart #3 compact electric SUVs much more family-sized than many of the products Smart has previously built, but the new 2025 Smart #5 really is a big electric SUV. Although it looks smaller than most, it's much the same size as the Volkswagen ID.4, and it's every bit as spacious inside, so it's very different from the cars Smart was previously known for. The question is whether the new-look brand can capture buyers' imaginations in the same way, and whether the #5 is capable of mixing it with the more established products it wishes to challenge. To find out, we headed to Portugal for the global launch of the #5, where we tested a European-specification car in top-of-the-range, high-performance Brabus form. Sportier styling and higher power output aside, it's little different from other variants in the range, and gave us a good opportunity to try out all the #5 has to offer in every situation, from country roads and urban streets to gravel tracks and highways, before the model's Australian release. Smart is yet to confirm pricing for the #5 in Australia, but we're expecting the mid-size electric SUV to start somewhere around the $70,000 mark, or just above the smaller #3. We're also expecting a pretty generous standard specification, with 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic roof and parking sensors at the front and rear all expected to feature. That's all going to sit alongside a massive 13-inch infotainment touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster and dual-zone climate control, as well as wireless phone charging, synthetic leather upholstery and over-the-air software updates. Smart's new look is modern and clean, and that's as true of the #5's interior as it is of the exterior styling. So, you'll find neat, rounded shapes and a relatively button-free dashboard, with a simple three-spoke steering wheel and most of the controls living on the touchscreen. And it's a sizeable touchscreen, measuring 13 inches diagonally, complete with the latest software and a quick processor, as well as Smart's latest-generation voice assistant, which takes the form of a lion avatar that prowls the menus. In truth, some of that stuff is a bit gimmicky, despite the cleverness of the technology, and the lion thing is a little distracting if we're honest. But it isn't as distracting as the passenger display that's fitted to some of the more upmarket grades as standard in Europe, including the range-topping Brabus cars. Whereas some brands put a kind of polarising film on their passenger displays, preventing the driver from seeing what's there, there's no such protection on the Smart's system, leaving the driver with every chance of rubbernecking at whatever film or game the passenger is playing. It's a nice idea, then, but it feels as though it needs a little refinement. In fairness, though, Smart says the technology isn't entirely complete and will be updated ahead of the car's market introduction later this year. And while we can find faults with the two main touchscreens, the responses are sharp, and even the touchscreen climate control system isn't too difficult to adjust. On top of all that, we've nothing but praise for the head-up display and the digital instrument cluster. We're impressed with the cabin quality, too, which is every bit as good as we've seen in the #1 and #3 models. Most of the materials, with only a couple of exceptions, are remarkably good, including the seat upholstery and most of the plastics. Combined with the airiness provided by the glass roof, it makes the #5's cabin feel decidedly upmarket. But the overwhelming sense is one of space. The room inside the #5 is staggeringly good, with huge amounts of rear legroom and headroom, as well as plenty of space for those in the front. It's only a five-seater, which might disappoint some, but those five people will have plenty of room. Even the middle seat in the second row is reasonably comfortable. Luggage capacity is pretty good, too, with a 630-litre boot in all versions of the #5. That means it's considerably more spacious than the boot in a VW ID.4, and that space is joined by a 'frunk' under the bonnet. Exactly how big that frunk is will depend on which version you choose – the all-wheel drive cars get less space than the rear-wheel drive cars, but Smart reckons the standard rear-drive variant's frunk is big enough for the kind of carry-on suitcase you see airline passengers using every day. We suspect it'll probably be used for cable storage by most, but it'll offer useful carrying capacity nonetheless. Full specifications have not yet been confirmed for the Australian market, but in Europe the #5 will be offered with a choice of two different batteries. There's a base grade with a 74kWh unit that may or may not come to Australia, but we're pretty confident the variants with the larger 100kWh battery will arrive on these shores. They're offered with a choice of either single-motor rear-wheel drive, or twin-motor all-wheel drive powertrains, each with varying power outputs. The pinnacle of the lineup is the Brabus, with a generous 475kW from its two motors, but there will be a choice of less powerful options, too. In Europe, for example, the basic RWD version delivers 250kW, while there are also 267kW single-motor and 432kW dual-motor options below the Brabus. In terms of efficiency, the single-motor models offer the best range, with even the smallest battery providing more than 400km of range according to the WLTP economy test. And the dual-motor systems allow the front motor to be detached from the powertrain when it isn't needed, reducing mechanical drag and thereby making it as efficient as possible. Even the Brabus will do more than 500km on a charge, with the 100kWh rear-motor option managing 589km between trips to the plug. Although it's big and heavy – the Brabus version weighs roughly the same as a Bentley Flying Spur V8– the #5 is a remarkably comfortable thing. Smart has clearly designed the #5 with ride comfort in mind, and it absorbs bumps with surprising ease, even on massive 21-inch alloy wheels. Admittedly, such large rims and such a bulky kerb weight mean the odd sharper imperfection in the surface will make itself known, but it's generally very good indeed. And while that kind of comfort would cause some cars to feel a bit soft and vague in the corners, the Smart handles pretty well. The steering's weight is good, and even though it feels a little artificial, it's easy to put the #5 exactly where you want it. And that's useful when the car feels every bit as big as its dimensions suggest when you're on the road. Unfortunately, there is a bit of lean in the corners, which in a mid-range model would be forgivable given the comfort credentials, but feels a little disappointing in the Brabus. We're told the suspension settings are identical to other all-wheel drive #5 variants though, so it looks promising for the more popular mid-range grades. Clearly, those versions will not be as fast as the Brabus, which has a frankly obscene amount of power for something of this size. Yes, the car is heavy, but 475kW is unnecessary in something like this. Happily, the AWD powertrain is just about capable of dealing with that kind of power, and it enables stomach-churning standing-start acceleration that sees the car hit 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds. Nobody needs to go that quickly, but even the base model, with 250kW and just the one electric motor, still gets to 100km/h in less than seven seconds. With the instant response of an electric powertrain, the car will be more than punchy enough no matter which version you choose. It'll be quiet, too, with acoustically insulated glass that's strikingly thick when you see its cross-section, meaning limited noise from the tyres or the wind. While it may not be quite as refined as some Mercedes-Benz luxury products, it's definitely quiet enough to live up to its semi-premium billing. Smart Australia is yet to confirm which versions of the #5 will come Down Under, but we know the Europe-bound cars get a generous specification and a wide range of different trim levels. 2025 Smart #5 equipment highlights: For Australia, we're expecting a slightly thinned-out lineup, perhaps with three or four different versions. The new #5 is yet to be crash tested either in Australia or in Europe, but Smart's record so far is good. Both the #1 and #3 received five-star ratings when they were put through their paces by ANCAP, and Smart has kitted the new car out with plenty of standard safety equipment. Better still, the company has included a system that allows drivers to choose their preferences for the driver assistance technology, which can be something of an irritant in certain situations. With Smart's touchscreen, however, those preferences can be saved, allowing faster access to drivers' preferred settings. Safety equipment includes: Every Smart currently sold in Australia comes with a five-year, 150,000km warranty, and we're expecting the #5 to be no exception. As with all electric vehicle, low running costs are one of the #5's big selling points, and there's no doubt it'll be considerably less expensive to operate than a similarly powerful petrol car. But alongside other EVs, it won't prove quite so cheap. The battery is much larger than that of, say, an ID.4, so it'll be more expensive to charge, and it won't go any further on a charge. The difference won't be huge, but other electric SUVs will – at least in theory – be slightly cheaper to run. The #5 may not be anything like Smarts of old, but that's no bad thing. A competent, likeable and comfortable electric SUV, it's a worthy rival to the likes of the Volkswagen ID.4 and Nissan Ariya, and it's only a few ergonomic shortcomings away from beating them. Perhaps it isn't the most efficient thing on the road, but its fast-charging capabilities and its pleasant road manners more than make up for Everything Smart Content originally sourced from:
7NEWS
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- 7NEWS
2025 Smart #5 review: Quick drive
Once upon a time, Smart was a brand that specialised in small city cars, but modern legislation and market forces have coaxed the company into a change of tack. Not only are the existing Smart #1 and Smart #3 compact electric SUVs much more family-sized than many of the products Smart has previously built, but the new 2025 Smart #5 really is a big electric SUV. Although it looks smaller than most, it's much the same size as the Volkswagen ID.4, and it's every bit as spacious inside, so it's very different from the cars Smart was previously known for. The question is whether the new-look brand can capture buyers' imaginations in the same way, and whether the #5 is capable of mixing it with the more established products it wishes to challenge. To find out, we headed to Portugal for the global launch of the #5, where we tested a European-specification car in top-of-the-range, high-performance Brabus form. Sportier styling and higher power output aside, it's little different from other variants in the range, and gave us a good opportunity to try out all the #5 has to offer in every situation, from country roads and urban streets to gravel tracks and highways, before the model's Australian release. How much does the Smart #5 cost? Smart is yet to confirm pricing for the #5 in Australia, but we're expecting the mid-size electric SUV to start somewhere around the $70,000 mark, or just above the smaller #3. We're also expecting a pretty generous standard specification, with 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic roof and parking sensors at the front and rear all expected to feature. That's all going to sit alongside a massive 13-inch infotainment touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster and dual-zone climate control, as well as wireless phone charging, synthetic leather upholstery and over-the-air software updates. What is the Smart #5 like on the inside? Smart's new look is modern and clean, and that's as true of the #5's interior as it is of the exterior styling. So, you'll find neat, rounded shapes and a relatively button-free dashboard, with a simple three-spoke steering wheel and most of the controls living on the touchscreen. And it's a sizeable touchscreen, measuring 13 inches diagonally, complete with the latest software and a quick processor, as well as Smart's latest-generation voice assistant, which takes the form of a lion avatar that prowls the menus. In truth, some of that stuff is a bit gimmicky, despite the cleverness of the technology, and the lion thing is a little distracting if we're honest. But it isn't as distracting as the passenger display that's fitted to some of the more upmarket grades as standard in Europe, including the range-topping Brabus cars. Whereas some brands put a kind of polarising film on their passenger displays, preventing the driver from seeing what's there, there's no such protection on the Smart's system, leaving the driver with every chance of rubbernecking at whatever film or game the passenger is playing. It's a nice idea, then, but it feels as though it needs a little refinement. In fairness, though, Smart says the technology isn't entirely complete and will be updated ahead of the car's market introduction later this year. And while we can find faults with the two main touchscreens, the responses are sharp, and even the touchscreen climate control system isn't too difficult to adjust. On top of all that, we've nothing but praise for the head-up display and the digital instrument cluster. We're impressed with the cabin quality, too, which is every bit as good as we've seen in the #1 and #3 models. Most of the materials, with only a couple of exceptions, are remarkably good, including the seat upholstery and most of the plastics. Combined with the airiness provided by the glass roof, it makes the #5's cabin feel decidedly upmarket. But the overwhelming sense is one of space. The room inside the #5 is staggeringly good, with huge amounts of rear legroom and headroom, as well as plenty of space for those in the front. It's only a five-seater, which might disappoint some, but those five people will have plenty of room. Even the middle seat in the second row is reasonably comfortable. Luggage capacity is pretty good, too, with a 630-litre boot in all versions of the #5. That means it's considerably more spacious than the boot in a VW ID.4, and that space is joined by a 'frunk' under the bonnet. Exactly how big that frunk is will depend on which version you choose – the all-wheel drive cars get less space than the rear-wheel drive cars, but Smart reckons the standard rear-drive variant's frunk is big enough for the kind of carry-on suitcase you see airline passengers using every day. We suspect it'll probably be used for cable storage by most, but it'll offer useful carrying capacity nonetheless. What's under the bonnet? Full specifications have not yet been confirmed for the Australian market, but in Europe the #5 will be offered with a choice of two different batteries. There's a base grade with a 74kWh unit that may or may not come to Australia, but we're pretty confident the variants with the larger 100kWh battery will arrive on these shores. They're offered with a choice of either single-motor rear-wheel drive, or twin-motor all-wheel drive powertrains, each with varying power outputs. The pinnacle of the lineup is the Brabus, with a generous 475kW from its two motors, but there will be a choice of less powerful options, too. In Europe, for example, the basic RWD version delivers 250kW, while there are also 267kW single-motor and 432kW dual-motor options below the Brabus. In terms of efficiency, the single-motor models offer the best range, with even the smallest battery providing more than 400km of range according to the WLTP economy test. And the dual-motor systems allow the front motor to be detached from the powertrain when it isn't needed, reducing mechanical drag and thereby making it as efficient as possible. Even the Brabus will do more than 500km on a charge, with the 100kWh rear-motor option managing 589km between trips to the plug. How does the Smart #5 drive? Although it's big and heavy – the Brabus version weighs roughly the same as a Bentley Flying Spur V8– the #5 is a remarkably comfortable thing. Smart has clearly designed the #5 with ride comfort in mind, and it absorbs bumps with surprising ease, even on massive 21-inch alloy wheels. Admittedly, such large rims and such a bulky kerb weight mean the odd sharper imperfection in the surface will make itself known, but it's generally very good indeed. And while that kind of comfort would cause some cars to feel a bit soft and vague in the corners, the Smart handles pretty well. The steering's weight is good, and even though it feels a little artificial, it's easy to put the #5 exactly where you want it. And that's useful when the car feels every bit as big as its dimensions suggest when you're on the road. Unfortunately, there is a bit of lean in the corners, which in a mid-range model would be forgivable given the comfort credentials, but feels a little disappointing in the Brabus. We're told the suspension settings are identical to other all-wheel drive #5 variants though, so it looks promising for the more popular mid-range grades. Clearly, those versions will not be as fast as the Brabus, which has a frankly obscene amount of power for something of this size. Yes, the car is heavy, but 475kW is unnecessary in something like this. Happily, the AWD powertrain is just about capable of dealing with that kind of power, and it enables stomach-churning standing-start acceleration that sees the car hit 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds. Nobody needs to go that quickly, but even the base model, with 250kW and just the one electric motor, still gets to 100km/h in less than seven seconds. With the instant response of an electric powertrain, the car will be more than punchy enough no matter which version you choose. It'll be quiet, too, with acoustically insulated glass that's strikingly thick when you see its cross-section, meaning limited noise from the tyres or the wind. While it may not be quite as refined as some Mercedes-Benz luxury products, it's definitely quiet enough to live up to its semi-premium billing. What do you get? Smart Australia is yet to confirm which versions of the #5 will come Down Under, but we know the Europe-bound cars get a generous specification and a wide range of different trim levels. 2025 Smart #5 equipment highlights: 13-inch touchscreen 10.25-inch digital instrumentation Panoramic glass roof Driving modes 19-inch alloy wheels Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Dual-zone air conditioning Satellite navigation For Australia, we're expecting a slightly thinned-out lineup, perhaps with three or four different versions. Is the Smart #5 safe? The new #5 is yet to be crash tested either in Australia or in Europe, but Smart's record so far is good. Both the #1 and #3 received five-star ratings when they were put through their paces by ANCAP, and Smart has kitted the new car out with plenty of standard safety equipment. Better still, the company has included a system that allows drivers to choose their preferences for the driver assistance technology, which can be something of an irritant in certain situations. With Smart's touchscreen, however, those preferences can be saved, allowing faster access to drivers' preferred settings. Safety equipment includes: Autonomous emergency braking Lane-keeping assistance Front and rear parking sensors Automated and remote parking Adaptive cruise control How much does the Smart #5 cost to run? Every Smart currently sold in Australia comes with a five-year, 150,000km warranty, and we're expecting the #5 to be no exception. As with all electric vehicle, low running costs are one of the #5's big selling points, and there's no doubt it'll be considerably less expensive to operate than a similarly powerful petrol car. But alongside other EVs, it won't prove quite so cheap. The battery is much larger than that of, say, an ID.4, so it'll be more expensive to charge, and it won't go any further on a charge. The difference won't be huge, but other electric SUVs will – at least in theory – be slightly cheaper to run. CarExpert's Take on the Smart #5 The #5 may not be anything like Smarts of old, but that's no bad thing. A competent, likeable and comfortable electric SUV, it's a worthy rival to the likes of the Volkswagen ID.4 and Nissan Ariya, and it's only a few ergonomic shortcomings away from beating them. Perhaps it isn't the most efficient thing on the road, but its fast-charging capabilities and its pleasant road manners more than make up for that. Pros Comfortable ride Roomy cabin Impressive quality Cons
The Independent
25-03-2025
- Automotive
- The Independent
Smart #5 gets fast charging and 366 mile range to tackle Tesla Model Y
First, an update on Smart. It's no longer an offshoot of Mercedes making those tiny cars that can be parked sidewise along the street. Now it's an 'international brand', a joint venture between the German giant and Geely, the mighty Chinese conglomerate of brands like Volvo, Lotus, Polestar, Zeekr and even LEVC, which makes London Taxis. That also means Smart models share bits and pieces with those aforementioned brands and that the cars are built in China. Smart does hashtags in its names not even numbers, so the line up includes the Smart #1 and Smart #3, with the Smart #5 being the biggest car in the range so far. At 4,695mm, it's yet another new Tesla Model Y rival, slotting into the hugely popular and lucrative mid-size SUV market. Other recent arrivals into this hotly contested sector include the BYD Sealion 7, Changan Deepal S07 and Xpeng G6 – with more to come. At least the Smart #5 doesn't follow the same design theme as its rivals. The new Smart ushers in a new look for the brand, with a boxier, 4x4-style look. It comes complete with big wheels, wheel arch extensions and short overhangs that are more in keeping with the Mercedes EQB or Ford Explorer. The off-road look isn't just for show, either. The Smart #5 can come with up to five off-road driving modes to adjust the drive to different surfaces. However, it's the tech underneath that the big story. The Smart #5 features advanced 800V technology that helps boost charging speeds, with a claim of up to 400kW fast charging if you can find a powerful enough charger. That means top-spec models with the largest 100kWh battery get a claimed maximum range of 366 miles and the ability to get a 10 to 80 per cent charge in just 18 minutes. Entry-level cars, badged Smart #5 Pro get a 76kWh battery, while the #5 Pro+ gets the 100kWh battery and 800V tech. The #5 Pulse adds all-wheel drive, plus a heat pump for added efficiency in cold weather, while the Smart #5 Summit Edition ups the off-road ante with a side ladder, roof platform and electric trailer hitch. Sitting at the top of the range is the more luxuriously specced Smart #5 Premium, which gets leather seats and oak wood trim. Inside you can cover the entire dash in screens with a 10.25in digital driver display, a 13in OLED central infotainment screen and the option of another screen of the same size sitting in front of the passenger with video streaming capability. If that's not enough, there's also a 25.6-inch augmented reality head-up display that will make it look like navigation instructions are being beamed onto the road ahead. There's an AI-supported voice control called Leo and a 20-speaker Sennheiser audio system with full Dolby Atmos that syncs with the 256-colour ambient lighting for a full in-car disco experience. Also inside are a total of 34 storage compartments, while maximum boot space with seats folded is 1,530 litres, plus an additional 72-litres under the bonnet in an illuminated frunk. The usual selection of advanced safety and driver assistance systems are on board, while for safety there are novel V-shaped curtain airbags and seat-integrated safety belts. First UK deliveries of the new Smart #5 are expected towards the end of the year, and although prices are some way off being finalised, we'd hope that the entry-level car would come in just under the £40,000 mark (missing the Expensive Car Supplement) with top-spec models likely to cost over £50,000.
