Mazda removed six models from its lineup in the United States in 2021, and then discontinued them in the UK last year and Japan a few months ago. However, the mid-size sedan/wagon technically never disappeared from Europe and other markets. There is finally a new Mazda 6 in China, but it bears no relation to the old model that has been around since 2012.
Meet the EZ-6. This stylish sedan, developed by the Changan Mazda joint venture, comes in fully electric and plug-in hybrid versions. It adopts the signature Kodo design language but features a partially illuminated grille and retractable door handles. We see some Jaguar elements in the rear lights and possibly the headlights. The rear light bar includes an active spoiler, something not typically expected on a sedan.
Sitting on 19-inch aero wheels, the Mazda EZ-6 features a large panoramic glass roof and frameless doors. Reports from China indicate that the electric/plug-in hybrid sedan is based on the Changan Shenlan SL03 but has been upgraded to a more luxurious interior. It seems to have little in common with globally sold Mazda products, which explains the Chinese connection. It looks like a pleasant place to be, with an interesting full-length "floating" center console.
Here are some early features with official visuals. The Mazda EZ-6, as an electric model, has a rear-wheel-drive setup. It boasts a perfect 50:50 weight distribution and a multi-link rear suspension. The unspecified battery pack provides a range of 373 miles according to the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC). The plug-in hybrid can travel 621 miles before running out of gasoline or battery power.
In terms of size, it measures 193.7 inches in length, 74.4 inches in width, and 58.4 inches in height. This makes it slightly larger than the old Mazda 6. Meanwhile, Mazda has already ruled out replacing the familiar 6 with a new generation featuring a straight-six engine on the company’s RWD platform. For now, this architecture is only used by four SUVs: the CX-60, CX-70, CX-80, and CX-90.
As for the EZ-6, it will be available for sale in China following its public debut at the Beijing Auto Show this week. It is unlikely to be exported to other markets.
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