Smart has expanded its vehicle lineup by launching its first sedan, the #6, which is designed to compete with larger models such as the Toyota Camry. Previously known for its compact city cars, Smart has broadened its offerings since Mercedes-Benz sold half of the brand to Geely. The #6 is a significant shift for the brand, marking its entry into the sedan market.
The Smart #6 measures 4,906 mm in length and features a sporty design with blacked-out alloy wheels and a pop-up boot lid spoiler. The body showcases a curvaceous profile, complemented by full-width translucent plastic housings for both head- and tail-lights. Notably, the vehicle is equipped with what appears to be a LIDAR unit on the roof and additional cameras positioned behind the front wheel arches, indicating the availability of advanced driver assistance systems.
Specifications and Features of the Smart #6
While interior images have yet to be disclosed, past Smart models suggest a tech-forward cabin featuring multiple screens and, specifically for the Chinese market, an AI voice assistant. The #6 stands as Smart’s largest vehicle to date, surpassing the previous largest model, the #5 SUV, which measures 4,700 mm.
In terms of power, the #6 will launch exclusively as a plug-in hybrid, utilizing Geely’s NordThor Hybrid 2.0 powertrain. This setup boasts a total system output of 320 kW. The drivetrain appears to mirror that of the #5 EHD, which employs a 120 kW 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine alongside a rear-mounted 200 kW electric motor and a three-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT).
The electric range for the #6 is estimated at 285 km, based on the generous China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC) standard, while the overall driving range is projected to be 1,810 km. Although Smart has not disclosed details about the battery pack, the plug-in hybrid #5 with similar specifications utilizes a 41 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery.
Market Context and Future Prospects
Although the decision to enter the sedan market may seem unconventional for a brand that has primarily focused on hatchbacks and SUVs, there remains a strong demand for sedans in China, Smart’s core market. The launch of the #6 is a strategic move to tap into this segment, potentially attracting a new demographic of customers.
The unveiling of the Smart #6 reflects the brand’s ambition to diversify its portfolio and adapt to shifting consumer preferences in the automotive industry. As Smart continues to innovate, the #6 sedan may play a crucial role in shaping the brand’s future in the competitive automotive landscape.
