The Smart automobile brand has historically belonged to Mercedes-Benz Group, focusing on making small-but-practical urban cars (hence the name). It has since been partly purchased by Geely, which assumed control over its model lineup and brought us models like #1, #3 and #5 – all quite large vehicles not having much in common with the brand’s earlier releases. If you thought those were uncalled for, wait till you see the new Smart #6.
It’s a liftback that spans 4,906 mm (191.6 inches) long and has 2,926 mm (114.3 inches) between the axles. It is pretty much a full-size car comparable with the China-spec Mercedes-Benz CLA. In fact, that sedan is noticeably smaller at 4,763 mm (186 inches) long with 2,830 mm (110.6 inches) of wheelbase.
The styling is rather fresh with a new front bumper sporting a diagonal pattern, flush door handles and an active rear spoiler in the back. Wheels come in 19- and 20-inch sizes.
Right now, the patent database only mentions one powertrain for the Smart #6. It combines a 1.5-liter engine with 163 PS (161 hp / 120 kW) and an electric motor with undisclosed specs. In all-electric mode, the car is CLTC-rated for 285 kilometers (177 miles) of range. Max out the gas tank, and you’ll be looking at 1,810 km max (1,124 miles).
Sales in China will begin next year. Since Mercedes-Benz emphasizes that “a global design team” worked on the project, we suppose global markets will receive it, too.
