- Mazda has launched the EZ-6 in China, which is the spiritual successor to the Mazda6.
- The model features electric and range-extended powertrains producing up to 255 hp.
- The EZ-6 comes nicely equipped and the fully electric variant has a range in excess of 373 miles.
When Mazda introduced the EZ-6 at the Beijing Auto Show, they kept things frustratingly vague. They’re now filling in the blanks by releasing detailed pricing and equipment information as well as specifications.
Billed as an “elegant, intelligent, and fun new electric flagship,” the EZ-6 features a streamlined Kobo design with a wide grille that is flanked by LED headlights. They’re joined by frameless doors with flush-mounted handles.
Other highlights include a panoramic glass roof and aerodynamically optimized 19-inch wheels. Buyers will also find rain-sensing wipers and slender taillights that are connected by a thin illuminated strip. Higher-end variants go a step further as they offer an active rear spoiler and a power liftgate. Mazda also mentioned an external voice command function, which can be used to open the liftgate.
More: New Mazda6 Reborn As The Electric RWD EZ-6, But Only In China
In terms of size, the EZ-6 measures 193.7 inches (4921 mm) long and has a wheelbase that spans 114 inches (2895 mm). To put that into perspective, the model is 0.2 inches (5 mm) longer than the Toyota Camry, but has an extra 2.8 inches (71 mm) between the wheels.
Moving inside, there’s a minimalist cabin with a 10.1-inch digital instrument cluster and a floating 14.6-inch infotainment system. Buyers will also find leather or Nappa leather seats with a matching steering wheel. Rounding out the highlights are a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a six-speaker audio system, and a 50w wireless smartphone charger.
Higher-end variants are more luxurious as they sport a heated steering wheel as well as heated and ventilated front seats. Customers will also find a 64 color ambient lighting system and a 14-speaker Sony premium audio system.
While Mazda initially said the EZ-6 would be offered with electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains, the model actually has electric and range-extended options. The EV has a rear-mounted motor producing 255 hp (190 kW / 258 PS) and 236 lb-ft (320 Nm) of torque. It’s powered by either a 56.1 or 68.8 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack. The former provides a CLTC driving range of 298 miles (480 km), while the latter increases that distance to more than 373 miles (600 km).
The range-extended variant goes in a different direction, featuring a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 94hp (70kW), which charges the battery, and an electric motor developing 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS) and 236 lb-ft (320 Nm) of torque that drives the rear wheels. Customers will also find an 18.9 or 28.4 kWh battery pack.
The smaller of the two batteries provides 65 miles (105 km) of electric-only range, while the bigger unit increases the distance to 99 miles (160 km). More importantly, thanks to the engine, the overall range is in excess of 808 miles (1,300 km).
Pricing starts at ¥139,800 (about $19,600 at current exchange rates) for the range-extended variant, while the EV begins at ¥159,800 ($22,427).
