Smart, the brand once famous for its tiny two-seater city cars, is growing up. The latest proof comes from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), which just revealed the Smart #6 EHD, a plug-in hybrid sedan that’s the largest vehicle to ever wear the Smart badge. This isn’t just a bigger car, it’s a signal of a major shift in strategy, moving away from quirky niche models and into the mainstream family sedan market.
The #6 sedan is a clear departure from the cute, bubbly designs of the Smart #1 and #3. It’s long, low, and sleek, with dimensions that put it squarely in the mid-size category. It measures 4,906 mm long and 1,922 mm wide, with a generous 2,926 mm wheelbase that promises plenty of interior space for passengers. This is a Smart you can actually fit a family in.
| Metric | Value | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Geely NordThor Hybrid 2.0 | PHEV | 1.5T engine + electric motor |
| Engine Power | 120 | kW | 161 hp from the 1.5L turbo |
| DC Fast Charging | 10-80% < 20 min | — | Official claim, very fast for a PHEV |
| Battery Chemistry | LFP | — | Lithium Iron Phosphate for durability |
| Battery Supplier | SVOLT or CATL | — | Two of China’s top battery makers |
| Dimensions (l/w/h) | 4906/1922/1508 | mm | Comparable to a mid-size sedan |
| Curb Weight | 1,990 – 2,099 | kg | Varies by trim level |
A More Mature Design
Visually, the Smart #6 looks confident and modern. The front end is dominated by a continuous light strip, a popular design cue that gives it a high-tech feel. While it has small grilles on the sides, the main air intake is low and wide, adding to its aggressive stance. Look closely at the roof, and you’ll spot a lidar unit, a clear sign that the #6 will come with advanced driving assistance capabilities.
The side profile is clean thanks to hidden door handles, and the multi-spoke rims fill the wheel arches nicely. The rear fenders have a subtle flare, creating a wide-body effect that makes the car look planted on the road. A matching full-width taillight echoes the front design. For those wanting a bit more flair, Smart will offer an optional rear wing and different wheel designs, with tire sizes up to 255/40R20.
Geely’s Tech for Mainstream Muscle
Under the skin, the #6 EHD is powered by parent company Geely’s NordThor Hybrid 2.0 system. This is a sophisticated plug-in hybrid system that pairs a 1.5L turbocharged engine producing 161 hp (120 kW) with an electric motor. This same setup is found in the Smart #5 EHD, giving drivers the best of both worlds, silent electric driving for city commutes and gasoline power for long road trips.
What’s really impressive is the charging. Smart claims the battery can be replenished from 10% to 80% in under 20 minutes, a speed that’s more common in pure EVs than in plug-in hybrids. The battery itself is a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) pack, sourced from either SVOLT or CATL. LFP chemistry is known for its durability and safety, making it a smart choice for a daily driver, even if it means a slight trade-off in energy density.
A New Chapter for Smart
The Smart #6 EHD is a fascinating move. By launching a large, mainstream sedan, the brand is chasing a completely different customer. It’s leveraging Geely’s massive supply chain and engineering expertise to build a car that can compete on space, technology, and performance. While it might disappoint some old-school fans who loved the brand for its tiny footprint, the #6 opens a new chapter for Smart, one that could see it become a serious player in one of the auto industry’s most competitive segments. The official launch is expected next year, and it will be one to watch.
