Mazda is launching another electric vehicle (EV) in Australia this year, providing two models to rival the best-selling Tesla Model Y and Model 3… and like them, the new Mazdas will also be built in China.
The Mazda CX-6e The midsize electric SUV will join the midsize electric liftback 6e, which was confirmed to launch here mid-year.
Mazda has confirmed the new electric SUV will be launched in 2026, but has not yet given an exact date. Further details such as prices and specifications will also only be announced shortly before the market launch.
The CX-6e, known as the EZ-60 in China, was developed in collaboration with Chinese automotive giant Changan, better known in Australia as the owner of the fledgling Deepal EV brand.
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After being unveiled last April in EZ-60 guise, the global CX-6e debuted just a few days ago at the Brussels Motor Show, when European specifications were also announced.
The CX-6e available in the European market uses a 78 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, which offers an electric range of up to 483 km on the WLTP cycle, as well as a maximum DC fast charging power of 195 kW and an AC charging power of 11 kW.
The energy consumption in the WLTP cycle is given as 18.9 to 19.4 kWh/100 km.
A single 190kW/290Nm electric motor powers the rear wheels, with Mazda claiming 0-96km/h (0-60mph) acceleration in 7.9 seconds.
There is no dual-motor all-wheel drive variant and the extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) powertrain – with a smaller 31.73 kWh battery and a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine – remains exclusive to China for now.
It’s unclear what will change for the Australian market model other than moving the steering wheel to the right side.
The CX-6e is similar in size to the unrelated CX-60, offering a choice of petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains.
It is 4850mm long, 1935mm wide and 1620mm high with a wheelbase of 2902mm. This makes it 90 mm longer, 45 mm wider and 55 mm higher than a CX-60 with a 32 mm longer wheelbase.
For comparison: the best-selling Tesla Model Y is 4792 mm long, 1982 mm wide and 1624 mm high with a wheelbase of 2890 mm.
The CX-6e’s trunk holds 468 liters, increasing to 1434 liters with the second row of seats folded flat.
Although it shares its platform with models like the Deepal S07, it features a distinctive Mazda exterior design.
Inside, it’s a little less Mazda, although we’ve seen even Japanese-developed models like the new CX-5 use this design language with large screens and few buttons.
And the CX-6e’s screen is large at 26 inches. It integrates the instruments and infotainment system, the latter with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while a head-up display sits in front of the driver.
The interior is available in Europe in three different color options: black, warm beige and two-tone amethyst and white. All feature Mazda’s Maztex leatherette upholstery, with the Amethyst interior matching the CX-6e-exclusive Nightfall Violet exterior finish.
“The confirmation of the Mazda CX-6e for the Australian market is a monumental moment for Mazda Australia, adding another highly compelling option for our customers and expanding our multi-solution approach,” said Vinesh Bhindi, managing director of Mazda Australia.
“When you combine this distinctive craftsmanship with the acclaimed Jinba-Ittai driving dynamics and cutting-edge technology, it’s clear that this is not just another electric vehicle, but a Mazda through and through.”
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