Smart #5 Brabus spotted charging in Porto

Far from harsh winter testing a few kilometres from the Arctic Circle, or from the hottest afternoons somewhere in southern Spain, the most sporting and powerful version of the new Smart #5 has been spotted in Portugal itself: plugged into a charging point in the city of Porto.

Already the largest Smart ever made, this heavily camouflaged example conceals what will also be the range’s most powerful variant.

Smart #5 Brabus power output

No official figures have yet been confirmed. However, information uncovered in the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) patent register, which we reported last year, points to 646 hp. It remains to be seen whether this output will be retained for Europe.

Whatever the final figure, we can already state with certainty that this #5 Brabus will be the most powerful Smart ever. At present, that distinction belongs to the #5 Pulse and #5 Summit Edition, both with 587 hp.

What can we see?

In the Porto photographs published here, the Smart #5 Brabus can be identified by red trim details, including those visible on the roof rails. It also features larger alloy wheels and red brake callipers.

A sportier cabin treatment

Inside, the steering wheel, seats, centre console and door panels are upholstered in leather and a suede-like material, creating a sportier appearance. Red stitching and several carbon-fibre details complete the package.

The Brabus branding is clearly displayed on the lower section of the steering wheel. The dashboard houses three generously sized displays, with the two on the right operated by touch.

When will the Smart #5 Brabus arrive?

As for pricing, conventional versions of the new Smart #5 are priced from €47,400 to €58,400, across a total of five trim levels, and are due to arrive next summer.

Given the additional equipment and performance it offers over the “normal” versions, the Brabus-badged model will unquestionably sit above all of them. Its arrival is expected to follow a little later.