The Mazda EZ-6 marks a significant step for the Japanese automaker into the fully electric and extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) market, developed in a partnership with Changan Automobile in China. Positioned as a mid-size liftback, the EZ-6 is a spiritual successor to the Mazda6, offering a blend of Mazda’s signature design philosophy and advanced electric vehicle technology.
Design and Aesthetics
The EZ-6’s exterior adheres to Mazda’s “Kodo: Soul of Motion” design language, translated for the electric era. It features a sleek, coupe-like silhouette with a low roofline, giving it a sporty and elegant presence. The EV version sports a closed front grille with an illuminated Mazda emblem, while the EREV variant utilizes a traditional intake grille. Distinctive “Wings of Light” split-style LED headlights and a full-width LED taillight bar enhance its modern appeal. An active rear spoiler on select models automatically deploys at higher speeds to improve aerodynamic stability. The car’s frameless doors and a panoramic glass roof further contribute to its premium, contemporary feel.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the EZ-6’s cabin is designed with a focus on simplicity, spaciousness, and a driver-centric layout, embodying the Japanese concept of “ma.” The interior is available with premium materials like Nappa leather and suede, accented with red stitching for a sporty touch. The cockpit is dominated by a 14.6-inch central touchscreen, a 10.1-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 50-inch augmented reality head-up display (AR-HUD) that projects critical information directly onto the windshield. The infotainment system, powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, integrates various vehicle functions, from air conditioning to entertainment. Other notable features include “zero-gravity” front seats with ventilation, heating, and massage functions, a 14-speaker Sony sound system, and a 64-color ambient lighting system.
Powertrain and Performance
The Mazda EZ-6 is offered with two distinct powertrain options to cater to different driver needs. The pure electric (EV) model comes with a rear-mounted motor delivering 190 kW (258 PS) of power and 320 N·m of torque. It is available with two battery pack options: a 56.1 kWh LFP battery offering a CLTC range of 480 km (approximately 298 miles), and a larger 68.8 kWh LFP battery that extends the CLTC range to 600 km (approximately 373 miles). The EV version boasts a near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, which, combined with a rear multi-link suspension, aims to deliver Mazda’s “Jinba-Ittai” (horse and rider as one) driving experience.
For those with range anxiety, the EREV variant offers a hybrid solution. It uses a 1.5-liter four-cylinder range extender engine with a power output of 70 kW (94 hp) that acts as a generator to charge the battery. This is paired with a 160 kW (218 PS) electric motor that drives the rear wheels. The EREV model has a pure electric range of up to 200 km (124 miles) and a total range exceeding 1,300 km (808 miles) on a single tank and full charge.
Pricing and Availability
The Mazda EZ-6 was introduced at the Beijing Auto Show in April 2024, with sales beginning in China shortly after. The starting price for the EREV model in China is around $19,600, while the pure EV starts at approximately $22,400. While initially a China-exclusive model, Mazda has confirmed that the EZ-6 will be sold in other markets, including Europe, where it will be known as the Mazda 6e. This global expansion signifies Mazda’s commitment to its electrified future, using the EZ-6 as a showcase for its collaborative development and technological advancements.
