Mazda CX-6e SUV is rear-drive hybrid or EV
The EZ-60 SUV from Mazda debuted at the Shanghai show. A rakish mid-size SUV, it will be available with a choice of plug-in hybrid or pure-electric power.
That gives it an advantage over the likes of Tesla Model Y, Audi Q4 e-tron and Skoda Enyaq.
Likely as not it will be CX-6e outside of China, with naming similar to the 6e sedan with which it shares many mechanicals.
The EZ-60 is a Mazda-Changan joint venture project, like the 6e. The look is aggressive, low and wide, with large wheels and a small glasshouse. Its Mazda-typical grille features a 3D lighting surround. The grille has a small vent that funnels air into a wing in the bonnet, aiding aero.
Thin daytime running lights are set up high, with the main lighting coming from below. There are drag-reducing cameras instead of mirrors, and a hollow rear pillar that also improves airflow.
At the back is a raked screen and there are two aero devices beside the screen's glass edge. A Mazda logo replaces the usual winged badge.
The EX-60 is a five seater that measures 4850mm long with a wheelbase of 2902mm. It is 1935mm wide and 1620mm tall so is bigger than Mazda CX-5 and Mazda CX-60 SUVs.
Inside is a huge 26.45-inch 5K screen while all the key driver information comes via a 3D head-up display.
The dashboard is a button-free zone but the 'smart cabin' can be operated by voice, touch or gesture.
A 23-speaker 3D sound system has headrest speakers so front seat occupants can listen to different music.
The electric EZ-60 has a range of almost 600km per charge, while the PHEV can manage 1000km, though these are not WLTP figures.
Read our Mazda CX-6e preview here.
Weight balance is evidently 50:50 for the PHEV, 47:53 for the EV.
All independent suspension (Mac strut front, multilink rear) features adaptive dampers. Likely as not the EZ-60 employs the 6e's EPA1 platform.
Pricing should undercut that of the Tesla Model Y, at least in the UK.
Other technical aspects, like battery size and PHEV components are unknown.
It is unclear whether CX-6e is coming here but given Mazda says it will be a global vehicle, like the 6e saloon, both are distinct possibilities.
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