Get ready for a game-changer in the automotive world! The Smart #6 is here, and it's a plug-in hybrid saloon that's about to shake things up. This bold move by Smart is a far cry from their previous tiny city cars, and it's got the potential to give some serious competition to established players.
But here's where it gets controversial: the Smart #6 is currently only destined for the Chinese market. So, if you're a UK resident eyeing this sleek machine, you might be in for a disappointment.
In terms of size, the Smart #6 is an impressive 4.9 meters long, 1.9 meters wide, and 1.5 meters tall, outclassing both the BMW 3 Series and the Merc C-Class. The design features distinctive lightbars, an active aero spoiler, and a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor, giving it a unique and modern look.
While we don't have images of the interior yet, based on Smart's recent SUV models, we can expect a high-tech cabin with an extensive display system. Imagine a dashboard-spanning screen, similar to the #5, which would be a perfect match for its ambitious goals.
Under the hood, the Smart #6 boasts an Electric Hybrid Drive (EHD) system, combining a 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine, an electric motor, and a 41.46kWh battery pack. This setup is mated to a three-speed DHT transmission, resulting in a combined power output of 429bhp. Smart claims an impressive 177-mile all-electric range and a whopping 1,125-mile combined range on China's CLTC test cycle. However, fuel consumption is officially rated at 72.4mpg, which may be lower on Europe's WLTP standard.
And this is the part most people miss: Smart is now an all-electric brand! While there are no current plans to launch the #6 in other markets, who knows what the future holds? If enough voices are raised, perhaps we'll see this innovative saloon on our roads too.
So, what do you think? Is the Smart #6 a bold step forward or a missed opportunity? Let us know in the comments!
