Mazda CX-6e: the new electric SUV is coming

Soon after the European launch of the Mazda 6e, the Japanese manufacturer is strengthening its electric-car plans with another model: a fully electric SUV, also created through its joint venture with Chongqing Changan Automobile, expected to be called the Mazda CX-6e.

Mazda has already released images of the Chinese-specification model, which will be the first version to reach the market and will be known there as the Mazda EZ-60. According to Car News China, its public debut is scheduled for the Shanghai Motor Show on 23 April.

What is known so far?

The Mazda CX-6e will use the same platform as the 6e, known in China as the EZ-6. This is Changan's EPA1 architecture, meaning that the CX-6e is likewise based on an existing vehicle: the Deepal S07 SUV - the two models can be compared in the gallery above.

Mazda CX-6e design and dimensions

At first glance, however, its overall proportions appear to be the only obvious link with the S07. For context, the Deepal S07 is 4.75 m long, 1.93 m wide and 1.625 m high.

As was the case with the 6e saloon, which is directly derived from the Deepal SL03, Mazda's designers have again done a notable job of distinguishing the two vehicles. Against likely rivals including the Tesla Model Y, XPeng G6 and Audi Q6 e-tron, Mazda's SUV seems set to hold an aesthetic advantage.

Expected Mazda CX-6e powertrain

Whether it will also have a technical advantage remains another matter. No specifications have been announced so far, although they are expected to match those of the Deepal S07. In China, the S07 uses a single rear-axle electric motor, offered in two outputs: 160 kW (218 hp) and 190 kW (258 hp).

These motors are supplied by two lithium-ion battery options: a 68.8 kWh LFP (lithium iron phosphate) pack, with a 520 km range on the Chinese CLTC cycle, and an 80 kWh NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) pack, rated at 628 km CLTC. They are precisely the same batteries fitted to the Mazda 6e, which is already on sale in Portugal.

When will it arrive?

There is still no confirmed date for the Mazda CX-6e's European market launch. However, as noted above, the model is expected to be unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show on 23 April.