Rumours of the demise of the Mazda6 were apparently greatly exaggerated. The internal combustion-engine model was discontinued by Mazda last year and most thought that-was-that after 21 years and three generations, but Mazda Motor Europe has just revealed its pure-electric Mazda 6e, an all-new model.
The 6e is the European version of the Chinese-market EZ-6, a collaboration between Mazda and Changan Automobile - a partnership that dates back 20 years. Mazda says its influence can mainly be seen in design, combined with "Changan Automobile’s electrification and smart-cabin technologies".
The 6e goes on sale in left-hand drive European markets mid-year, with right-hand drive UK sales to follow in 2026.
Whether that means a New Zealand launch will follow remains to be seen. Mazda NZ quietly phased out the 6 after the introduction of the 20th anniversary version in 2023, in response to customer preference for all things SUV.
"For the Mazda6e, Europe (both left-hand drive and right-hand drive) is the only region to announce introduction at this stage," says a Mazda NZ spokesperson.
"The Mazda6e is under consideration for other markets, but there are no announcements to share at this time. For NZ, we are always open to introducing new models - particularly those with electrification - subject to the suitability for customer and market demands."
The Mazda6e is offered with a choice of 68.8kWh or 80kWh battery options, with range from 479-552km, in a rear-drive layout.
