Mazda is transitioning its iconic family sedan into an all-electric model, leveraging its partnership with Chinese automaker Changan to minimize costs. Named the Mazda 6e, this new sedan is set to hit dealerships in Europe by summer 2025, with a starting price under €45,000. This price positions it as a direct competitor to more compact EVs like the Tesla Model 3.
A Shift Toward Electric: From Ambitions to Practicality
Just a few years ago, Mazda had ambitious plans for a premium successor to its Mazda 6, featuring inline six-cylinder engines and a rear-wheel-drive platform. The idea was to compete with luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes. However, the company shifted gears, opting for an electric sedan developed in China by its local partner, Changan.
The Mazda 6e shares its platform with the Changan Deepal SL03, which has already been rebranded as the Mazda EZ6 for the Chinese market. While maintaining the core structure of the SL03, the Mazda 6e has undergone significant chassis and tuning modifications to suit European preferences. The vehicle will debut at the Brussels Motor Show in January 2025 before reaching showrooms later in the year.
Design: Sleek and Spacious, But Compact on Storage
The Mazda 6e measures 4.92 meters in length, making it slightly larger than its predecessor and comparable to the Audi A6 e-tron. Its fastback profile enhances aerodynamics and efficiency, while unique features like frameless windows and a full-width illuminated grille showcase Mazda’s modern design language.
However, storage capacity is limited:
- Trunk Space: 330 liters (comparable to smaller city sedans like the Škoda Fabia).
- Frunk (Front Trunk): An additional 70 liters.
- Total Capacity: 400 liters, significantly less than rivals like the Volkswagen ID.7, which offers 532 liters.
Mazda attributes this limitation to market preferences in China, where cargo space is less of a priority, and station wagons are perceived as utilitarian vehicles.
Performance and Battery Options
The Mazda 6e will offer two electric powertrains:
- Standard Version:
- Power: 245 hp
- Battery: 80 kWh (nickel-metal hydride)
- Range: 552 km (WLTP cycle)
- Performance Version:
- Power: 258 hp
- Battery: 68.8 kWh (lithium-iron phosphate)
- Range: 479 km (WLTP cycle)
Both variants support DC fast charging up to 200 kW, allowing a 10-80% charge in just 22 minutes.
Mazda has decided against offering a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option in Europe, citing declining demand and the car’s Chinese-centric development, which excluded station wagon variants.
Interior : A Fully Digital Experience
The Mazda 6e’s cabin marks a significant departure from its predecessors:
- Display Configuration:
- 10.2-inch digital driver’s display.
- 50-inch head-up display.
- 14.6-inch central touchscreen for infotainment.
The absence of physical buttons creates a sleek, modern aesthetic, while premium materials like tanned leather and Alcantara elevate the sense of luxury. A panoramic glass roof enhances cabin spaciousness but lacks a sunshade.
Practical features include:
- Wireless charging for two smartphones.
- Ample storage in the lower center console.
- Rear passenger comfort with a 2.89-meter wheelbase providing generous legroom. However, the battery placement raises the floor, slightly compromising seating ergonomics.
Competitive Pricing
Mazda has announced that the 6e will be priced below €45,000, aligning it with smaller EVs like the Tesla Model 3, Polestar 2, and BMW i4. This pricing strategy makes it a compelling choice for buyers seeking affordability without sacrificing size or premium features.
