Mazda's Competitor to the Model Y Has Arrived, But It Won't Be Available in America | Carscoops

      The SUV counterpart to the 6e/EZ-6e sedan is constructed on Changan’s Deepal S07 platform and may offer options of 68.6 and 80 kWh batteries.

      10 hours ago

      by Chris Chilton

      Mazda has unveiled photos of its EX-60 SUV in China ahead of its debut at the Shanghai Auto Show later this month.

      This electric vehicle will be marketed as the CX-6e internationally; although European sales are not confirmed, they are likely by 2026.

      The EZ-60 and 6e/EZ-6e sedan utilize Changan’s platforms, but their electric technology is behind that of Korean competitors.

      Mazda’s initial attempt at an electric SUV, the unconventional and range-limited MX-30, was too unique, but the EZ-60, unveiled this week in China, takes a more traditional approach, which appears to be a wise choice.

      Images released prior to its full launch at the Shanghai Auto Show later this month showcase a larger SUV with standard doors, maintaining a sporty aesthetic that could attract some Tesla Model Y buyers.

      Related: Four Mazda Models Are Being Discontinued This Year, But One Could Return

      The EZ-60 is the production variant of last year’s Arata concept and will be rebranded as the CX-6e for international markets, aligning it as an electric alternative to the gasoline-powered CX-60. The final design closely resembles the concept, featuring a more assertive front end than its Tesla competitor, frameless door glass, camera-based mirrors, a coupe-like rear with a sloped roofline, and a sharply angled D-pillar.

      Mazda has not confirmed a European launch, but it is nearly certain given the region's strong EV market and Mazda's earlier commitment to introducing its 6e sedan (known as the EZ-60 in China) in Europe later this year. It would be surprising if it isn’t available in Europe by 2026.

      Shared Platform, Familiar Hardware

      Both the sedan and SUV are based on Changan’s architecture, with the Deepal S07 already competing against the Model Y and set to arrive in Europe by the end of 2025. We'll have to wait for the EZ-60's full reveal on April 23 to learn the specific details, but we anticipate considerable similarities to the 6e regarding battery and motor specifications.

      For reference, the European version of the 6e sedan provides options of 68.6 and 80 kWh batteries and can be equipped with either of two motors. Both configurations feature a single motor powering the rear wheels, with one producing 241 hp (244 PS) and the other delivering 255 hp (258 PS). The electric range spans from 300 to 345 miles (483-555 km), although the larger and less aerodynamic SUV may not achieve the same range.

      Charging and Range-Extender Tech

      Changan’s platform is not as advanced as those from Hyundai-Kia, supporting charging at a maximum of 200 kW, which is comparable to many European automakers. However, the architecture is flexible enough to accommodate a 1.5-liter range-extender combustion engine in China, though Mazda is unlikely to adopt this technology since it offers the CX-60 as a PHEV.

      Unfortunately for buyers in the United States, the CX-6e will not be available. Its production in China means it faces high import tariffs and limited incentives under current US EV tax credit regulations. For now, it seems this model will remain in markets where Mazda's EV strategy is already making progress.