Mazda 6e has adopted a unique approach to innovation, ensuring it covers all technological bases. Unlike betting on a single strategy, the company invests in multiple powertrain technologies, from traditional petrol and diesel engines to hybrids, plug-in hybrids, range extenders, and even rotary engines.
This strategy means Mazda remains flexible in a rapidly changing market. With its latest offering, the Mazda 6e, the brand enters the electric vehicle (EV) space with pure electric, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and range extender powertrains.
For now, only the EV variant is confirmed for the UK market. Developed in collaboration with the Chinese automaker Changan, the 6e is known as the Deepal SL03 in China.
Range, Battery, and Charging:Mazda 6e Review
The standard range 6e comes with a 258PS motor driving the rear wheels, paired with a 68.9kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, delivering a respectable range of 310 miles. Impressively, it achieves efficiency of 4.499 miles per kWh.
Charging performance is strong, with a peak DC fast-charging speed of 200kW, enabling a 10% to 80% charge in just 22 minutes. Adding 150 miles of range takes a little over 15 minutes. However, the AC charging rate of 11kW falls short of expectations.
For those needing more range, the long-range variant offers a lithium-ion battery with an 80kWh capacity and a range of 345 miles. However, it comes with trade-offs.
Power drops slightly to 244PS, and DC charging speed is significantly slower at 95kW, taking around 45 minutes to recharge from 10% to 80%. This slower charging speed and reduced power may deter buyers, especially since the long-range version is also more expensive.
Related Article you can read:–2025 Upcoming Electric Cars Discover the Top New Models
Practicality and Boot Space:Mazda 6e Review
With a length of 4,921mm and a width of 1,890mm, the Mazda 6e is larger than a Tesla Model 3 and slightly smaller than a Volkswagen ID.7. This size ensures ample passenger space, though the high floor typical of EVs slightly compromises rear-seat comfort for taller passengers.
Boot space, however, raises questions. Mazda claims a capacity of 330 liters with the seats up, smaller than competitors like the Volkswagen ID.3 (385 liters).
Yet, the boot appears much larger in person, estimated closer to 450 liters. This discrepancy calls for a closer examination.
Interior and Technology:Mazda 6e Review
Mazda elevates the 6e’s interior with premium materials and thoughtful design. Highlights include suede-like door trims and a standard full-length panoramic roof that enhances light and headroom.
There is installed 14.6-inch touchscreen. Innovative and playful, gestures like a thumbs-up to like a song or a finger-to-lips motion to mute the audio add a touch of fun.
An augmented reality head-up display overlays navigation arrows on the road ahead, while a unique snow mode adjusts graphics for better visibility in winter.
Motors and Performance:Mazda 6e Review
The standard range 6e delivers 258PS and 320Nm of torque, achieving a 0–62 mph time of 7.6 seconds. The long-range version, with 244PS and the same torque, is slightly slower at 7.8 seconds. Both models feature rear-wheel drive, 50:50 weight distribution, and multi-link rear suspension, ensuring a sporty and responsive driving experience typical of Mazda.
An electric rear spoiler deploys automatically at speeds above 56 mph (90 km/h) and can also be manually activated for added downforce, though its impact at regular speeds may be minimal.
Final Thoughts
The Mazda 6e combines sleek design, practicality, and impressive efficiency, making it an attractive alternative to models like the Tesla Model 3. Promising a spirited driving experience, it aligns with Mazda’s reputation for driver-focused cars like the MX-5.
However, with its UK launch set for 2026, the rapidly evolving EV market poses challenges.
Whether the 6e can remain competitive and appeal to buyers seeking a premium yet practical EV remains to be seen. For now, the 6e shows great promise, but only time will tell if it will be a true game-changer.
