Smart #6 Launches as a Hatchback Sedan Targeting the Premium NEV Market

On June 11, the smart brand launched its all-new model, the #6, with a time-limited starting price of RMB 177,900. Positioned as a “next-generation premium hatchback sedan,” the vehicle measures 4,906 mm in length and comes standard across all trims with LiDAR, ZF’s closed-loop controlled steering system, Sennheiser audio, and urban map-free NSP navigation assistance. The brand claims a combined range of up to 1,810 km and equips the car with over 100 high-perception features. Addressing the traditional hatchback’s shortcomings in practicality and space, the #6 offers a trunk opening width of 1,000 mm, rear seatbacks adjustable up to 122°, seat cushions extended to 547 mm in length, and a completely flat 2-meter load floor when the rear seats are folded down. Emphasizing an “emotional luxury” design philosophy, it features starlight turbine-style air vents, UFO-shaped floating high-frequency speakers, nearly 800 illuminated points, and 256-color ambient lighting. Built on Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA), the #6 is powered by the new-generation Raytheon Hybrid EVO engine, achieving a thermal efficiency of 47.26%. Smart is a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Geely Holding Group, and the #6 integrates Mercedes-Benz design elements with Geely’s technological resources. In terms of pricing strategy, the entry-level and top-trim versions (priced at RMB 217,900) differ minimally in intelligent and comfort features—the primary distinctions lie in battery capacity and drivetrain configuration. This approach narrows the profit margins typically associated with tiered trim structures but significantly simplifies consumers’ configuration decisions. Smart vehicles are currently available in 41 countries and regions worldwide. While targeting China’s premium hatchback segment, the #6 also aims to leverage Europe’s strong acceptance of hatchbacks to boost global sales and optimize its cost structure. However, it will face competition from established local brands like Volkswagen and Renault in Europe, and its prospects there remain uncertain due to potential EU tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles. From the #1 to the #6, smart has expanded its product lineup from compact to larger vehicles within less than four years, transitioning its brand positioning from “urban micro-mobility” toward meeting diverse needs including family travel, long-distance journeys, and intelligent technology integration.