The Best of Both Worlds: Smart #5 Hybrid Offers Massive 880-Mile Range

Smart’s doing a bit of a U-turn on its all-electric game plan, and the #5 SUV is getting a plug-in hybrid twist. This move isn’t out of nowhere—it’s all about keeping up with the growing love for hybrids in markets like China, where EV-only isn’t the be-all and end-all just yet.

So, here’s what we know: the hybrid Smart #5 is likely rocking Geely’s Thor system, which sounds like it belongs in a superhero movie. It combines a 1.5L turbocharged engine with a 215-hp electric motor. You’ll get two battery choices—one that gives 34 miles of electric range and another that stretches to 75 miles.

Add it all up, and the total range tops a massive 880 miles. That’s perfect for those long-haul drives without having to panic about finding a charger every few hours. Meanwhile, the all-electric Smart #5 is staying in the game too, with up to 460 miles of range and a spicy 416 hp. Those are landing in Europe by mid-2025, while the hybrid version will follow in 2026.

Smart’s not the only one mixing things up. Geely's other brands, such as Lotus and Zeekr, are also embracing the hybrid trend. Lotus is teasing some “super hybrid” tech with turbo engines, electric motors, and crazy fast charging for cars like the Eletre SUV. Zeekr’s rolling out three plug-in hybrid models by 2025, including a flagship SUV.

So yeah, hybrids are becoming the cool middle ground. For those who are not yet prepared to completely abandon gasoline or struggle with EV range anxiety, hybrids offer a balanced alternative.