Exploring the Spacious and Thoughtfully Designed Cabin of the #5 SUV
The #5 SUV from Smart may seem like a departure from the small and compact Smart cars of the past, but its design team drew inspiration from the innovative packaging of the Fortwo to create a surprisingly roomy interior. Referred to as the ‘body space index,’ the #5 maximizes roominess with its wheels pushed to the corners, flat floor, and straight-backed silhouette.
Step inside the #5 and you’ll be greeted with a cavernous and airy cabin that rivals cars from a higher class. With ample boot space, headroom, and numerous storage cubbies, the #5 is designed to offer both comfort and practicality. The materials used in the cabin are of a higher quality compared to its smaller counterparts, giving it a more premium feel.
While the Brabus edition may have some questionable design choices, overall, the cabin of the #5 is thoughtfully arranged and designed. The mock carbonfiber trimmings, microfiber upholstery, and red accents add a touch of sophistication to the interior, showcasing Smart’s premium aspirations.
One of the drawbacks of the #5 is its reliance on a 13-inch touchscreen for primary vehicle controls. However, Smart has made improvements based on customer feedback, making key functions more accessible from the home screen to minimize distractions while driving. The driver assist functions, while present, can be easily turned off if desired.
For passengers, a same-sized touchscreen for the front passenger is available on higher trims, catering to the demands of Chinese consumers. While this feature may seem unnecessary and distracting, it reflects the increasing trend of technology integration in modern vehicles.
However, some aspects of the infotainment system, such as the gamified interfaces and digital mascot Leo, may not appeal to all buyers. The inclusion of whimsical elements in a premium SUV may seem out of place to some, raising questions about the target audience for such features.
Overall, the cabin of the #5 SUV is a blend of comfort, practicality, and modern technology. While there are some areas for improvement, such as reducing reliance on touchscreen controls and reevaluating unnecessary features, the #5 stands out for its spacious and well-designed interior.
