Mazda, long known for its driver-focused vehicles, is finally making a serious push into the electric market with the 2026 Mazda 6e. Unveiled initially as the EZ-6 in China, this model is a joint venture with Changan, but unlike simple rebadging, it represents a genuine attempt to compete with established EV leaders like Tesla.
The 6e is intended as the spiritual successor to the beloved Mazda 6, and will arrive in Australia by mid-2026 with an aggressive starting price target of under $55,000. This price point directly challenges the Tesla Model 3 RWD and BYD Seal Premium, making it a key player in the competitive mid-size EV segment.
Inside the 6e: Minimalism and Tech
The interior of the 6e departs from Mazda’s traditional tactile approach. The cabin is dominated by a large 14.6-inch infotainment screen controlling most vehicle functions, eliminating the familiar rotary dial and physical buttons found in other Mazda models. This shift towards a screen-heavy interface mimics Tesla’s minimalist design, though it may alienate loyalists accustomed to Mazda’s more intuitive controls.
Despite the digital focus, material quality is high, featuring soft-touch surfaces and a luxurious two-tone leather steering wheel in the tested prototype. The rear seats offer substantial legroom thanks to the extended wheelbase, and the liftback design provides practical cargo access.
Powertrain and Range
Australian-market 6e models will pair a 78kWh Lithium-Iron-Phosphate (LFP) battery with a 190kW rear-wheel-drive motor. The LFP chemistry allows frequent charging to 100% without degradation, a significant advantage for Australian buyers. Mazda claims a WLTP range exceeding 500km and DC fast-charging from 30% to 80% in just 15 minutes.
Driving Experience: Comfort Over Sportiness
The initial driving impressions of a pre-production 6e reveal a focus on comfort rather than the sporty handling typically associated with Mazda. The ride is exceptionally compliant, absorbing road imperfections effectively. However, this softness translates to body roll at higher speeds, lacking the firm control that defines Mazda’s “Jinba Ittai” philosophy.
Acceleration from 0-100km/h is a respectable 7.35 seconds, but the power delivery is smooth rather than aggressive. Mazda is aware of the suspension’s shortcomings and plans extensive local tuning to improve body control while preserving ride comfort.
Safety and Running Costs
The Mazda 6e includes a comprehensive suite of active safety systems, though their calibration for Australian conditions remains a concern. Mazda is working on refining these systems to prevent intrusive alerts and ensure effective operation.
Efficiency figures are still pending homologation, but the 78kWh battery supports competitive fast-charging times.
The Verdict: A Promising Contender
The Mazda 6e represents a compelling entry into the mid-size EV market. Its combination of striking design, premium interior, and competitive pricing positions it as a serious alternative to the Tesla Model 3. While the current suspension setup prioritizes comfort over handling, Mazda’s commitment to local tuning suggests the final product could deliver a more balanced driving experience.
If Mazda can refine the ride and maintain its aggressive pricing, the 6e has the potential to disrupt the electric car landscape and offer buyers a credible, well-rounded EV option.
