smart #5 launches in New Zealand from $79,990

smart has expanded its New Zealand presence with the launch of the #5, available in three variants priced from $79,990 plus on-road costs.

The medium-to-large SUV joins the #1 and #3 in local showrooms, with the range spanning the rear-wheel drive PRO+ at $79,990, the Premium at $89,990, and the performance-focused BRABUS at $99,990 plus ORCs.

All variants feature a 100kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery and 800V architecture enabling DC fast charging up to 400kW and AC charging up to 22kW. The system can charge from 10–80% in 15 minutes under optimal conditions.

“The smart #5 represents an important next step for the smart brand in New Zealand,” says Arek Zywot, smart General Manager at Armstrong’s.

“Customers are increasingly seeking premium electric SUVs that combine practicality, luxury, performance and advanced technology. The smart #5 delivers a unique blend of all four, whether customers are looking for a refined long-range family vehicle or a high-performance flagship.”

Range and technology highlights

The entry-level PRO+ delivers 540km of WLTP range, while the Premium extends this to 590km through efficiency improvements. The BRABUS returns to 540km due to its dual-motor all-wheel drive configuration.

Technology features include dual 13-inch OLED displays on Premium and BRABUS variants, with the PRO+ receiving a single 13-inch OLED screen. The Premium and BRABUS also feature a 20-speaker Sennheiser sound system with Dolby Atmos technology.

All variants include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Over-the-Air updates, Vehicle-to-Load capability, and a panoramic glass roof with powered sunroof blind.

The Premium model adds ventilated front seats, rear seat heating, and an augmented reality head-up display, while maintaining a 1,600kg towing capacity.

Performance flagship targets enthusiasts

The BRABUS variant features dual-motor all-wheel drive producing 475kW, enabling 0–100km/h acceleration in 3.8 seconds.

Performance features include distinctive BRABUS styling, red brake callipers, Alcantara sports steering wheel, and Dinamica seats with exclusive interior colours.

“The smart #5 BRABUS demonstrates that premium EV ownership can be both exciting and practical,” says Zywot.

“It delivers exhilarating performance alongside luxury, technology and usability, creating a compelling proposition for drivers wanting something genuinely distinctive in the premium EV SUV market.”

Safety credentials lead segment

The #5 achieved a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating and was recognised as Euro NCAP’s Safest Large SUV of 2025, with scores of 93% for Child Occupant Protection and 92% for Safety Assist.

The SUV features a steel-aluminium hybrid body with 82% high-strength material, seven airbags, and millimetre-wave Child Presence Detection technology.

Standard safety equipment across the range includes smart Pilot Assist, a 360-degree camera system, 12 parking sensors, and automated parking functionality.

Expanded dealer network supports launch

The #5 is available through smart’s expanded dealer network, with locations in Auckland (Albany and Botany), Hamilton, Tauranga, and Christchurch.

The model has received international recognition including Family Electric SUV of the Year at the 2026 What Car? Awards and multiple Red Dot awards for design and human-machine interface innovation.

Storage capacity reaches 1,350 litres with rear seats folded, while the frunk provides 72 litres in PRO+ and Premium variants, or 47 litres in the BRABUS due to its dual-motor configuration.