Mazda has officially unveiled pricing and specifications for its highly anticipated second electric vehicle (EV), the Mazda 6e, confirming its arrival in Australia this July. The new battery electric vehicle (BEV) will enter the Australian market with a starting price of $49,990 before on-road costs, positioning it as a significant move for the Japanese automaker in the mainstream EV segment.
A New Chapter for Mazda EVs in Australia
The introduction of the Mazda 6e marks a fresh start for Mazda’s electric ambitions in Australia. This follows the company’s previous foray with the Mazda MX-30, an EV that debuted in 2019 but was discontinued locally after just two years. The MX-30 faced challenges, largely attributed to its limited range of approximately 200 kilometres (km), which fell short of market expectations.
In contrast, Mazda Australia is positioning the new 6e as its “first mainstream electric vehicle,” signalling a commitment to offering a more competitive and appealing EV option to a broader range of consumers.
Underpinnings and Design
The Mazda 6e is built upon the EPA1 architecture, a platform developed through Mazda’s 50:50 joint venture with Chinese automaker Changan Automobile, operating as Changan Mazda. This same architecture serves as the foundation for the Deepal L07 model, indicating shared development and technological underpinnings.
Visually, the Mazda 6e presents a modern aesthetic with a five-door hatchback body style. It features a distinctive coupé silhouette characterized by a long roofline and a short-deck design, all supported by a substantial 2,895mm wheelbase. This extended wheelbase contributes to its spacious interior and dynamic proportions.
Performance and Range Capabilities
Under the hood, the Mazda 6e is powered by a rear-wheel-drive electric motor capable of delivering up to 190 kW of power and a peak torque of 290 Nm. Driving its performance is a 78 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, which contributes to an impressive driving range of 580 km, as measured by the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) standard.
The vehicle demonstrates efficient energy use, with a combined energy consumption rate of 15.9 kWh per 100 kilometres. For drivers seeking convenience, the Mazda 6e supports DC fast charging. It can replenish its battery from 30 per cent to 80 per cent charge in as little as fifteen minutes, utilising a CCS Type-2 connection, a standard for many public charging stations.
Model Grades and Feature Highlights
The Mazda 6e will be available in Australia in two distinct model grades: the entry-level GT and the more premium flagship Atenza. Mazda asserts that both variants offer “an irrefutable value proposition” through an extensive list of standard features.
Standard Features Across Both Models
Both the GT and Atenza models come equipped with a comprehensive technology and convenience package. This includes a 10.2-inch TFT LCD multi-meter display for driver information and a large 14.6-inch central touchscreen display as the primary infotainment hub. The driver experience is further enhanced by an augmented-reality active driving display, providing critical information within the driver’s line of sight.
Keyless entry is standard, complemented by a Bluetooth key functionality. For seamless smartphone integration, both Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, ensuring drivers can easily connect their devices for navigation, music, and communication.
Advanced Safety Suite
Mazda has prioritized safety in the 6e, equipping both models with a robust suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These include blind spot monitoring (BSM) with vehicle exit warning, which alerts drivers to approaching vehicles when opening doors. Lane support features are also standard, encompassing lane departure warning (LDW), lane-keep assist (LAS), and lane departure prevention (LDP), all designed to help keep the vehicle centred within its lane.
Additionally, smart brake support (SBS) is included, which can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid a collision. These features collectively contribute to a safer driving experience for occupants and other road users.
Comfort and Premium Touches
Further enhancing the appeal of the Mazda 6e are its exterior and audio features. Both models will ride on 19-inch alloy wheels, providing a stylish and assertive stance. For an immersive auditory experience, a premium Sony Audio system with 14 speakers is standard across both grades.
Exclusive Atenza Interior Enhancements
The flagship Atenza model distinguishes itself with enhanced interior appointments designed to elevate the sense of luxury and refinement. This includes premium tan leather and synthetic suede seats featuring intricate quilted stitching. The steering wheel adopts a sophisticated two-tone tan/black leather finish, and the dashboard and door trims are appointed with matching tan synthetic suede.
Pricing and Launch Offers
The pricing structure for the Mazda 6e begins with the GT model, listed at a manufacturer’s list price (MLP) of $49,990. For the enhanced interior features and premium finishes of the Atenza model, the MLP is $52,990. It is important to note that these prices are before the application of any on-road costs, which will vary by state and territory.
With first deliveries anticipated to commence in July and pre-orders already open at Mazda dealerships nationwide, the company has also introduced a limited-time pre-order incentive. The first 300 customers to place a pre-order for a Mazda 6e GT will receive a complimentary upgrade to the Mazda 6e Atenza model. This offer aims to drive early adoption and reward initial customers with the higher specification variant.