IN THE RUN-UP TO THE LATE 2025 Australian launch of the new smart #5, the innovative brand’s first off-road capable mid-sized SUV, smart has further underlined its European heritage by adding the statement of “Styled by Mercedes-Benz” to its official brand communications.
Mercedes-Benz, a 50 percent partner with Geely in the reinvigorated smart brand, has had direct design input to the new smart all EV range, extending across the smart #1, smart #3 and the upcoming smart #5. The influence of the world’s oldest car maker can be seen in both the exterior and interior of all three smart models as well as in the nature of premium materials used and the build quality.
The smart #5 was given its world media premier in Australia late last year with a suitably outdoor experience event in Byron Bay. At that event Mecedes-Benz Chief of Design for smart, Kai Sieber, outlined the Mercedes-Benz Design Studio’s building blocks for the new smart EVs design DNA. “The three keywords were, love, pure and unexpected. I believe we have achieved that with pure and elegant streamlined exteriors, even for the more outdoor focused #5, and achieved a perfect balance of aesthetics and aerodynamics.”
“We have worked on creating a whole new sensation of space inside the cabins, combining superior room efficiency with unique design features that create and emotional connection and a feeling of premium comfort. We have also added unexpected touches to both exterior and interior design; from the recessed door handles to the way the worked to make driving and interacting with the car as natural and immersive as possible.”
The smart #1 and smart #3 ranges have been available in Australia since late 2024 and are setting a new standard for premium EV mobility blending their Mercedes-Benz design DNA with the most advanced EV platforms of the Geely Group. and continuing the smart tradition of innovation in urban mobility. The smart #5 will be the brand’s first foray into an adventure-oriented vehicle and the largest smart yet.
LSH Auto is the sole dealer for the smart brand in Australia and the smart experience centres are located at their Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane outlets, also home to their Mercedes-Benz Dealerships.