CX-6e
Alternatives: Hyundai IONIQ 5, Tesla Model Y Standard, Volvo EX40, Deepal S07, Lexus RZ, Kia EV5, Leapmotor C10
Efficiency & Charging
7.5/10
Performance & Driving Dynamics
6.5/10
Interior & Technology
8/10
Practicality & Usability
8/10
Value & Running Costs
7.5/10
Overall
7.5/10
Overview
The Mazda CX-6e marks Mazda's first dedicated, ground-up electric car. Derived from a collaborative platform developed with Changan, sharing its foundations with the Deepal S07. However, European models undergo significant local tuning to align with Mazda's driving ethos. Positioned directly against established electric family crossovers such as the Tesla Model Y, Skoda Enyaq, and Renault Scenic E-Tech, the CX-6e brings distinct Japanese design aesthetics and high tech to the competitive D-segment SUV market. It targets family buyers seeking a premium atmosphere, generous interior space, and ultra-modern connectivity without entering the traditional luxury price bracket.
Design
Visually, the CX-6e evolves Mazda's Kodo design into the electric era, using sharp proportions, a athletic stance, and flush panels. Up front, the closed-off illuminated grille incorporates distinctive lighting that frames the nose, flanked by ultra-slim LED headlights and sculpted air curtains that optimize airflow. The side profile features a long 2,900 mm wheelbase, clean body surfaces, and flush door handles. Standard models sit on 19-inch aerodynamic alloy wheels, while higher trims upgrade to 21-inch units. At the rear, a full-width LED light bar spans the tailgate beneath a subtle roof spoiler. A key element on higher trims is the replacement of conventional side mirrors with compact, weatherproof cameras, which slim down the vehicle's overall width and reduce wind resistance.
Interior
The cabin uses the Japanese architectural concept of "Ma", the beauty of empty space, resulting in a clean, uncluttered dashboard layout. Its centerpiece is a giant 26.45-inch 5K touchscreen spanning the center and passenger side of the dashboard. It features a split-screen layout, allowing the driver to view navigation functions while the front passenger can manage media or infotainment settings. Material quality is elevated, featuring soft-touch Maztex synthetic leather, titanium-coloured semi-matte accents, and ambient lighting with 64 selectable colors. Top-tier trims include dual wireless phone charging pads with active cooling, a digital rear-view mirror, and a 23-speaker, 1,280W audio system complete with Bluetooth headrest speakers in the front seats.
Performance & Powertrains
The CX-6e is launched with a single RWD electric powertrain. Power is delivered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor producing 190 kW and 320 Nm of torque. This propels the crossover from 0 to 62 mph in 7.3 seconds, reaching an electronically-limited top speed of 115 mph. Energy is supplied by a 78 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, delivering a range of up to 300 miles on a single charge. Operating on an advanced electrical architecture, the CX-6e supports DC rapid charging at speeds up to 200 kW. Connected to a high-power DC charger, a 10% to 80% charge takes an impressive 24 minutes. On the road, near 50:50 weight distribution provides predictable, balanced cornering, though the suspension tuning favors firmer body control over floaty comfort.
Practicality
Thanks to the dedicated EV platform and long wheelbase, cabin packaging is a major strength. Rear passenger knee and head room are generous, easily accommodating tall adults with a completely flat floor for 3 people to sit comfortably. Storage in the main cabin includes large door bins, a deep cooled central armrest console, and twin tray slots on the floating center console. Rear luggage space measures 468 liters under the parcel shelf with all 5 seats upright. Folding the 60:40 split rear seatbacks flat expands total rear cargo capacity to 1,434 liters. In addition to the rear trunk, the CX-6e features a dedicated 80-liter frunk under the bonnet, providing ideal storage for charging cables and smaller bags.
Buying
The Mazda CX-6e line-up is structured into two main specification levels: Takumi and Takumi Plus. Pricing starts at £42,990 for the standard Takumi trim. Standard equipment on the Takumi includes 19-inch alloy wheels, the full 26.45-inch 5K screen display setup, AR head-up display, heated front seats, wireless charging, matrix LED headlights, traditional glass side mirrors, and a full suite of active safety systems. Stepping up to the Takumi Plus model pushes the price to £45,285, adding 21-inch wheels, digital camera side mirrors, a digital rear-view mirror, synthetic leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and the 23-speaker premium audio system. The EV Hub recommended configuration is the standard CX-6e Takumi at £42,990. It rides on 19-inch wheels that offer better absorption over broken road surfaces, and delivers the full 300-mile range, fast 200 kW charging, and high-tech cabin ambiance at a significantly lower purchase price.