The Tesla Model 3 has been the default choice for family and fleet buyers in need of a hassle-free EV ownership experience. However, with only limited updates during its time on sale and great strides made by its rivals, it’s no longer the clear-cut leader of the EV executive pack.
The all-electric Mercedes CLA earned victory over the Model 3 in an Auto Express twin test at the end of last year, and now it’s time to see if another newcomer has the talent to see off the US contender. The all-new Mazda 6e fills a slot in the company’s line-up that was vacated by the petrol-powered Mazda 6 in 2022, but this time around it’s an all-electric five-door hatchback rather than a saloon.
However, perhaps of even greater significance is the fact that the Mazda 6e is actually built in China, and is a co-production between the Japanese manufacturer and Changan Automobile. This has helped Mazda to quickly get a new EV to market, and it’s one that has range and performance figures that give the Model 3 a run for its money.
View Price on AmazonBut does the 6e maintain Mazda’s tradition of channeling the DNA of its MX-5 sports car? And does it crack the formula of creating an entertaining EV in the process? At launch, there are just two models in the Mazda 6e line-up, kicking off with high-spec Takumi trim that starts from $43,995. For an extra $1,000, you can upgrade to Takumi Plus, which adds a different interior finish and a shade for the panoramic roof.
Both cars feature the same powertrain, with a 78kWh battery located under the passenger compartment and a 254-horsepower electric motor that sends power to the back wheels. Unlike the last Mazda 6, the 6e is a five-door hatchback instead of a saloon. There are two shortcut buttons on the left steering wheel spoke that can be assigned to 14 different settings, ranging from silencing the speed limit warning to opening the tailgate.
The Mazda 6e’s control layout has a fundamental flaw in that the left column stalk only has screen wash, main beam, and indicator controls (the stalk on the right is the drive selector). For other light and wiper controls, you must dip into the touchscreen, or you can map them to the shortcuts on the wheel, which makes the other 12 options redundant.
More features that reveal the Mazda 6e’s Chinese roots are the utilities you’ll find buried in the touchscreen. One sub-menu offers you different cabin ambiences, which are designed to help you relax while the car is charging. And if you’re going camping, the 6e has the facility to play music via an external speaker.
There are two more speakers in the driver’s headrest, which can be set up to deliver navigation instructions and traffic warnings, or even Bluetooth phone calls, so that you don’t disturb other occupants in the car.
Source: autoexpress.co.uk
