Mazda EZ-6 electric sedan debuts

Mazda has finally lifted the curtain on its latest electric vehicle, the EZ-6 sedan. Developed in partnership with Chinese maker Changan, it comes in both fully electric and extended-range (EREV) versions. But there's a catch: for now, the EZ-6 will only be available in China.

The fully electric version of the EZ-6 is powered by a 190 kW electric motor mounted on the rear axle. Buyers can choose between 56.1 kWh and 68.8 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery packs, offering a range of 298 miles and 373 miles, respectively. Fast charging capabilities allow the battery to charge from 30% to 80% in 15 minutes.

The EREV version combines the usual 1.5-liter engine with a 160 kW electric motor. The engine only acts as a generator to extend the vehicle's range, which varies depending on the battery pack. With the smaller battery pack, the EREV offers a 81 miles electric-only range and a total range of 808 miles. The larger battery pack increases the electric-only range to 124 miles. Charging the EREV from 30% to 80% at a DC charger takes approximately 20 minutes.

While the EZ-6 shares a platform with the Deepal SL03 and L07 sedans, it has different dimensions and styling. Measuring 193.7 inches in length, 74.4 inches in width, and 58.5 inches in height, the EZ-6 is slightly larger than both Deepal models. Its wheelbase spans 114 inches.

The EZ-6's exterior design is a blend of familiar Mazda elements and some futuristic accents. The front end features a Mazda-like grille and split headlights with the main lamps tucked beneath the daytime running lights. Mazda calls this LED light cluster the "Wings of Light," and the Mazda logo illuminates for extra flare.

In Mazda's first, the rear ducktail spoiler automatically activates at speeds above 56 mph to improve aerodynamics. The taillights echo the design seen on other Mazda models, and a full-width brake light definitely adds a modern touch.

Inside, the EZ-6 offers a more traditional layout similar to the SL03. Drivers will find a conventional instrument panel alongside a 14.6-inch infotainment screen. A 50-inch augmented reality heads-up display projects essential information onto the windshield. All of this is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chipset.

Surprisingly, even the base model boasts leather upholstery, while higher trims feature a combination of leather and suede. A 14-speaker Sony audio system delivers premium sound quality, and 64-color ambient lighting sets the mood. Front passengers can enjoy very popular "zero-gravity" seats that recline to a near-flat position. A full-length glass roof adds a sense of spaciousness to the cabin.

The EZ-6 features a stalk-mounted drive selector on the steering column, freeing up valuable space on the center console. There's room for two phones, but only the driver-side space supports wireless charging.

Pre-sales for the Mazda EZ-6 have already started in China, with prices ranging from RMB 160,000 to RMB 200,000 ($22,800 - $28,550). Honestly, this is quite an interesting, if not exciting, development from Mazda, and there are plenty of rumors the company will bring this new EV to other markets in the future. Let's hope this happens sooner rather than later.

Via