This vehicle stands apart from every prior Mazda 6 and 626 model that preceded it.

The Mazda 6e, introduced to Australia at the start of the year, marks the brand's initial rear-wheel drive mid-size offering since the original 626 ceased production back in 1982.

It also represents the first fresh Mazda entry in this class since the last Mazda 6 arrived locally in 2012.

Yet beyond these milestones, the 6e runs on electricity. Rather than rivaling the Toyota Camry and Hyundai Sonata, its rivals now encompass the Tesla Model 3 and BYD Seal.

One might wonder what expertise Mazda brings to electric vehicles after its previous attempt fell short.

That earlier model, the MX-30, offered limited range at a high price within a restyled CX-30 small SUV. This prompted Mazda to restart development through collaboration with its Chinese joint venture partner, the major automaker Changan.

Changan and Mazda have partnered since 2005, though earlier efforts mainly involved assembling existing Mazda designs.

This model changed that approach. Launched in China during 2024 as the EZ-6, it emerged from joint work between the firms as a mid-size liftback that adopts Changan underpinnings paired with signature Mazda design inside and out.

While Mazda develops its own EV platform, the 6e reaches markets including Australia and Europe.

More recently Mazda added a related crossover SUV called the CX-6e, tied closely to the Deepal S07 sold locally, though the 6e itself lacks a Deepal equivalent in Australia.

Chinese manufacturers lead in EV adoption, so the 6e's background proves an asset rather than a drawback. Its sedan-like form also delivers strong family practicality.

How much does the Mazda 6e cost?

Mazda Australia set attractive pricing for the 6e earlier this year, listing the entry GT at 49990 dollars before on-road costs and the flagship Atenza at 52990 dollars plus on-roads.

Model	Price before on-road costs
2027 Mazda 6e E35 GT	$49,990
2027 Mazda 6e E35 Atenza	$52,990

At launch the 6e sat below the base Tesla Model 3 by 4910 dollars, while the GT trim cost only 800 dollars more than the prior turbo four-cylinder Mazda 6 GT.

Tesla later adjusted with a new base rear-wheel drive Model 3 variant. Though less equipped than the 6e even in GT form, it lists at 45900 dollars plus on-roads. Mazda enjoyed strong initial positioning.

The 6e remains below the BYD Seal Premium at 52990 dollars plus on-roads and matches the Kia EV4 Air at 49990 dollars plus on-roads.

Skipping the Atenza's tan leather and synthetic suede trim on the dash, doors and seats plus its two-tone wheel saves 3000 dollars for the GT, now available at 52990 dollars drive-away. Adding 1000 dollars brings a Warm Beige cabin for added color, though less vivid than the Atenza scheme.

What is the Mazda 6e like on the inside?

The 6e creates a strong opening impression, especially in Atenza specification with its warm tan cabin.

It delivers the premium feel typical of Mazda interiors. Soft-touch surfaces with stitching cover the dashboard and console sides, while synthetic suede spans the dash front and door panels.

Adjustable ambient lighting glows from the dashboard, console and seat backs.

Closer inspection reveals some firmer plastics in lower door areas, yet these remain unobtrusive and preserve the refined overall atmosphere, which surpasses the new CX-5 in material quality.

Door closure lacks the same solid feel due to frameless glass, but this suits the sportier profile.

A large central touchscreen appears with minimal physical buttons, relying on the display or voice commands for most functions.

Essential items like demisters sit at the screen base. Climate adjustments involve extra steps for fan speed, while temperature changes open a convenient pop-up.

Swiping down from the top reveals shortcuts even during phone mirroring. Heated seat controls stay in the footer bar, yet ventilated seats need a swipe from the top.

Subtle Chinese influences appear in details such as title case text and voice assistant tone, yet the system offers extensive customization familiar from other EVs.

Extensive options exist for personalization, and the interface keeps them accessible.

A slim digital cluster sits ahead of the driver showing energy use and tyre pressures, alongside a clear head-up display absent from the Model 3.

Indicators sit on the left stalk unlike other Australian Mazdas, with wiper controls sharing the same stalk and a button for washer fluid.

A wireless charger and lower shelf appear on the console, along with USB-A and USB-C ports on the passenger side.

Traditional window and seat switches remain, but memory and heating functions route through the screen or voice.

Seat adjustments prompt on-screen save options, while heating and ventilation use touch or voice inputs.

The Sony audio system performs well, with headrest speakers for calls and assistants plus external speakers for outdoor use.

Storage covers door bottles up to 1.5 litres, a deep console bin and the lower console level.

Rear space offers generous legroom from the flat floor, though toe room varies with front seat position. A tall passenger noted slight headroom limits against the headliner.

The panoramic roof is fixed glass split into panels with a central bar.

Rear passengers access seat movement and sunshade controls near the vents, plus air outlets and one USB-C, though rear heating is absent.

The liftback design enhances practicality with 337 litres of cargo space that accommodates larger items more easily than rival sedans.

A tyre repair kit sits under the floor, typical for an EV, plus a front storage area for cables or small items.

Dimensions	Mazda 6e
Length	4921mm
Width	1890mm (excl. mirrors)
Height	1485mm
Wheelbase	2895mm
Cargo capacity	337L - to belt line, incl. under-floor storage

What's under the bonnet?

Only a single electric setup reaches Australia, with no dual-motor all-wheel drive version planned despite availability elsewhere.

Specifications	Mazda 6e
Drivetrain	Single-motor electric
Battery	78kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP)
Power	190kW
Torque	290Nm
Drive type	Rear-wheel drive
Kerb weight	2090kg
0-100km/h (claimed)	7.35 seconds
Energy consumption (claimed)	15.9kWh/100km
Energy consumption (as tested)	13.3kWh/100km - inner-city, suburban and highway loop 15.2kWh/100km - over the course of a week
Claimed range	560km (WLTP)
Max AC charge rate	11kW
Max DC charge rate	195kW
Braked towing capacity	1500kg

How does the Mazda 6e drive?

Driving impressions vary by comparison point. Against the prior Mazda 6 it may underwhelm in spirited use.

The affordable rear-drive layout promises much, yet the 6e shows limits when pushed hard.

Standard steering feels light and remote. Sport mode adds weight without true feedback.

The steering stays unloaded through corners regardless of setting. A capable chassis exists beneath, and weight feels well managed.

Daily driving suits the 6e better than twisty roads.

Light steering aids parking within an 11.2 metre circle.

It avoids both low-slung sedan feel and high SUV perch, striking a comfortable middle ground.

No start button exists. Entry powers the car on. Brake application and stalk shift engage drive or reverse, with park via stalk button.

Music may continue after exit until the system powers down.

Instant torque delivers strong initial response despite moderate peak figures.

Normal, Sport or custom Individual modes allow tuning of power, regenerative braking levels and steering weight, though no full one-pedal option appears.

The ride stays soft without adaptive dampers.