Daimler CEO Confirms Smart Crossover Project Under Review
Dieter Zetsche says the Smart brand is once again considering a small SUV, with revived interest following the segment’s rapid global growth.
Daimler chief executive Dieter Zetsche has confirmed that the Smart brand is once again evaluating the launch of a small crossover, a decade after an earlier project was abandoned. Zetsche made the comments during the 2015 Auto Shanghai motor show, citing the strong growth of the SUV and crossover segment as a key driver for the renewed interest.
Smart’s previous crossover plans revisited
Smart originally considered a crossover as far back as 2005, but the project was dropped before reaching production. The decision to revisit the idea now comes as crossovers have become a dominant force in both European and global markets, outpacing overall car market growth in recent years. Zetsche told media in Shanghai that if Smart expands its line-up, an SUV would be a logical next step.
The revived crossover would almost certainly use the ForFour as its technical basis. This would allow Smart to leverage existing platforms and keep development costs in check, while targeting buyers looking for a compact vehicle with higher ride height and more versatile packaging than the city-focused ForTwo.
Segment growth drives reconsideration
The global appetite for small SUVs and crossovers has shifted the priorities of many manufacturers. Daimler’s renewed focus on the segment is in line with its broader strategy, which includes expanding the Mercedes-Benz SUV range. At Auto Shanghai, Mercedes also revealed the GLC Coupe concept as part of its growing SUV portfolio.
Smart’s move would place it in direct competition with other compact crossovers aimed at urban buyers. No timeline or technical details have been confirmed, but the project is now formally back under review after a ten-year hiatus.
