Brabus Unveils Powerhouse

Power Unleashed

Smart has unveiled its latest creation, the #5 Brabus, a high-octane electric crossover gearing up for its debut at the Shanghai Auto Show. Sporting a hefty 637 horsepower, this is no ordinary EV. It’s set to turn heads as it rolls out across several markets, though sadly, it won’t be landing in the U.S.

Stepping Inside

Externally, the #5 Brabus distinguishes itself with striking 21-inch monoblock wheels finished in a modern two-tone color scheme, combined with bold red brake calipers and a suite of Brabus badges. Step inside, and it’s clear Smart is aiming for luxury. A spacious cabin features a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster alongside dual 13-inch displays, offering a cockpit that’s both futuristic and opulent. The steering wheel, wrapped in Alcantara, showcases illuminated Brabus branding, adding a touch of flair.

Upscale Comfort

The seats in this crossover are top-notch microfiber and Dinamica, providing premium comfort with heating and ventilation up front, and rear seat heating as well. The interior is further enhanced by a panoramic glass roof, microfiber headliner, and high-performance pedals. Not to mention, there’s a dynamic 256-color ambient lighting system and an impressive 20-speaker Sennheiser audio setup capable of pumping out over 2,000 watts. Even details like red seat belts contribute to the car’s sporty elegance.

Performance Meets Tech

Under the hood, or more literally throughout the chassis, there’s a 100 kWh battery servicing an all-wheel-drive system that delivers 637 horsepower (475 kW). This allows the Smart #5 Brabus to catapult from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.8 seconds. Its WLTP range is clocked at an impressive 336 miles on a full charge. In true Brabus fashion, there’s even a mode to simulate engine sounds, just to amp up the fun. When it’s time to recharge, the 400 kW DC fast-charging capability means going from 10% to 80% is possible in just 18 minutes, so there’s no need for the long coffee break.

Market and Price

Starting at about $66,850 in Germany, the #5 Brabus will be available for order later this April. It’s expected to hit the UK market towards the end of the year. Despite its limited geographic rollout, this Smart model’s offering a mix of luxury, performance, and electric efficiency that’s truly compelling.

Driving Experience

Sitting behind the wheel of the #5 Brabus, it offers a drive that’s akin to more traditional sporty sedans like the BMW M3, but without the gas engine rumble. It’s a sporty, punchy performance wrapped in a luxury interior space that’s built to impress. Brabus has certainly cranked up the fun factor with their signature touches, making this crossover a unique blend of high-performance driving with the sophistication of a well-crafted electric vehicle. While it might not be landing stateside anytime soon, it sets a remarkable benchmark for what’s possible with electric crossovers.