Mazda is back in the electric vehicle (EV) game with the 6e Atenza, a long-awaited return after the discontinuation of its first mass-produced EV, the MX-30. This new liftback isn’t just another attempt; it’s a significantly more competitive offering designed to take on established rivals.
For years, Mazda’s EV strategy was solo: designing and building the MX-30 entirely in Japan. The 6e marks a shift, forged in partnership with Chinese affiliate Changan Automobiles. This isn’t a rebadged Chinese car, however. Mazda has deeply integrated into the development process, ensuring the 6e aligns with its driving dynamics and design philosophy.
A Collaborative Effort: Leveraging Strengths
Changan handles battery development and core cabin tech, while Mazda refines the exterior, interior, operating system, and crucially, the suspension and steering for European and Western markets. This partnership allows Mazda to capitalize on Chinese expertise in EV production without sacrificing its core strengths: ride quality, handling, and design. The result is an EV that aims to be the best of both worlds.
Inside the 6e: Touchscreen Central
The interior is unmistakably Mazda, with premium materials like leather and suede accents. However, the 6e breaks from tradition with a highly touchscreen-dependent control system. Everything from wipers to mirrors is managed through the central 14.6-inch display. Despite initial skepticism, the system proves surprisingly intuitive, with a customizable menu bar for quick access to essential functions.
The cabin includes a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a head-up display, both of which are also controlled via the touchscreen. While it may take some getting used to, the responsiveness and design make it more user-friendly than expected.
Performance and Range: A Balanced Approach
The 6e is rear-wheel drive, a first for Mazda since the RX-8. It features an 80kWh LFP battery and a single electric motor delivering 180kW and 320Nm of torque. Acceleration to 100km/h takes 7.9 seconds. The battery supports DC fast-charging up to 195kW, achieving a 30-80% charge in approximately 15 minutes.
Driving Experience: Refined and Comfortable
Initial concerns about a soft ride proved unfounded. The 6e delivers a well-sorted driving experience, particularly at higher speeds. The suspension, tuned for European roads, absorbs bumps effectively, while the chassis remains stable and controlled. Sport mode sharpens the steering and maximizes regenerative braking, though it isn’t quite a true one-pedal system.
The 6e isn’t about violent acceleration; it prioritizes refinement and comfort. It handles well in corners, but won’t overwhelm with raw performance. After 400km of mixed driving, the energy consumption averaged 15.6kWh/100km, slightly better than the official WLTP figure.
Pricing and Safety: Competitive and Secure
The Mazda 6e will be available in two variants in Australia: the E35 GT (under $50,000) and the E35 Atenza (under $53,000). Both are priced competitively against the Tesla Model 3 and BYD Seal.
Safety is prioritized, with the 6e earning a five-star Euro NCAP rating. Standard features include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems.
Final Verdict
The Mazda 6e Atenza is a welcome return to the EV market for Mazda. It’s not a performance machine, but a refined, comfortable, and surprisingly engaging electric liftback. By leveraging its partnership with Changan while retaining its signature driving feel, Mazda has crafted an EV that feels uniquely its own.
