This vehicle, developed in partnership with Changan, is not just a replacement for the legendary Mazda6 but a futuristic reinterpretation of it.
The Mazda EZ-6 Hybrid PHEV is an E-class liftback with rear-wheel drive, impressive range, bold design, and cutting-edge technology, worthy of the flagship title of the new generation.
⚡ Technological Heart: PHEV Hybrid System
At the core of the EZ-6 is an innovative plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system, addressing the main concern for drivers transitioning to “green” transport — range anxiety.
Key Propulsion Components:
- Internal Combustion Engine (ICE): 1.5-liter gasoline unit, 95 hp (70 kW). In the series hybrid setup, the ICE acts as a generator to charge the battery.
- Electric Motor: 218 hp (160 kW), 320 Nm torque. The main traction source, delivering instant response and impressive dynamics.
- Total Power: 190 kW (258 hp), 0-100 km/h in 7.6 seconds, top speed 170 km/h.
Range
| Feature | Version (CLTC/WLTP) | Value | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Range (gas + battery) | Extended Range | 1000–1301 km | Ideal for long trips, eliminates range anxiety. |
| Electric Range (EV) | Standard (18.9 kWh) | Up to 130 km | Sufficient for daily city commutes without using gasoline. |
| Electric Range (EV) | Extended (28.4 kWh) | Up to 200 km | Allows weekly trips entirely on electric power. |
| Battery | Type and Capacity | Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP), 18.9 or 28.4 kWh | LFP ensures safety and durability. Fast charging 30%-80% in 15-20 min. |
🎨 Design and Ergonomics: Blending Style with Practicality
The EZ-6 is a liftback, a perfect compromise between sedan elegance and hatchback practicality. Body length 4921 mm, wheelbase 2895 mm, spacious interior.
Exterior: KODO in the Electric Era
- Style: fluid lines, sporty aggressiveness, and premium elegance.
- Proportions: 50:50 weight distribution, optimal handling, classic rear-wheel drive.
- Practicality: 479 l trunk (1174 l with seats folded), recessed handles, automatic retractable spoiler.
Interior: Digital Minimalism
- Materials: leather, Alcantara, elegant decorative elements.
- Control Center: 14.6-inch touchscreen.
- Comfort: “Zero-gravity” seats, panoramic roof, ambient lighting up to 64 colors, Sony audio system with 14 speakers, wireless charging.
💻 Technology and Safety: Intelligent Assistant
- Infotainment system: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155, voice command support.
- Driver Assistance L2.5: adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, intelligent parking, AR-HUD with 7.5 m projection.
- Structure and Handling: rear-wheel drive, 50:50 weight distribution, McPherson front suspension and multi-link rear.
🎯 Summary and Market Positioning
The Mazda EZ-6 Hybrid PHEV is not just a hybrid; it is a manifesto for the future. A direct alternative to the Tesla Model 3 and other premium D/E-class liftbacks.
Who is this car for?
- Urban residents who drive 130–200 km electrically without visiting a gas station.
- Long-trip enthusiasts with total range over 1000 km.
- Design lovers and KODO fans who appreciate premium interiors.
- Driving enthusiasts seeking dynamic performance and rear-wheel drive.
The EZ-6 Hybrid PHEV combines hybrid comfort with long-range capability and EV dynamics, wrapped in an elegant and luxurious Japanese design.
⭐ Mazda EZ-6: Revolution in the E-Class Segment — Hybrid Balance vs. Pure Electric Purism
Detailed review, version comparison, and competitor analysis with Tesla Model 3
🚀 Part 1: Mazda EZ-6 Hybrid PHEV Overview — Unprecedented Elegance and Range
The Mazda EZ-6 is not just a new car; it is a symbolic liftback marking Mazda’s transition into electrification while preserving key principles: stylish design, premium comfort, and the “Jinba Ittai” philosophy (driver-car unity). Developed with Changan, the EZ-6 is an E-class flagship offering the perfect compromise between eco-friendliness and practicality.
⚡ Technological Heart: Series Hybrid (PHEV/EREV)
The EZ-6 Hybrid PHEV uses a series hybrid setup (Range Extender Electric Vehicle — EREV), where the 1.5-liter gasoline engine (95 hp) mainly acts as a battery generator, while a powerful electric motor (218 hp) drives the wheels. Total system output is 190 kW (258 hp).
Main Advantage: Range
The EZ-6 almost eliminates the concept of “range anxiety.” With a full fuel tank (45 l) and a charged battery, total range reaches 1000–1301 km.
- Electric Drive: Up to 130 km (18.9 kWh battery) or up to 200 km (28.4 kWh battery) — more than enough for daily city commutes.
- Performance: 0-100 km/h in 7.6 seconds, an excellent result for a large hybrid liftback.
🎨 Design and Premium Comfort
The EZ-6 features KODO styling with a sleek liftback silhouette (4921 mm) and classic proportions highlighted by rear-wheel drive and ideal 50:50 weight distribution.
- Exterior: Sporty look complemented by practical details like retractable handles and active rear spoiler (some versions) improving aerodynamics.
- Interior: Luxury and technology. Materials: leather and Alcantara. Key features: front “Zero-Gravity” seats, panoramic roof, and Sony 14-speaker audio system.
- Digital Space: 14.6-inch touchscreen and digital dashboard powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155, ensuring fast response and extensive multimedia functions.
🛡️ Technology and Safety
The car offers Level 2 driver assistance, including adaptive cruise control and automatic parking with voice control. The AR-HUD (augmented reality) enhances safety and visual information for the driver.
⚔️ Part 2: Choosing a Version and Competitor Comparison (Tesla Model 3)
⚖️ EZ-6 Hybrid PHEV vs EZ-6 Pure Electric (EV)
The Mazda EZ-6 is available in two main versions, each catering to its target audience.
| Parameter | EZ-6 Hybrid PHEV (EREV) | EZ-6 Pure Electric (EV) |
|---|---|---|
| System Type | Series Hybrid (ICE 1.5L + electric motor) | Pure EV (BEV) |
| Total Power | 190 kW (258 hp) / Electric motor 218 hp | 190 kW (258 hp) |
| Total Range | 1000–1301 km (gas + EV) | Up to 600 km (CLTC) |
| EV Range | 130–200 km (LFP battery 18.9/28.4 kWh) | 480–600 km (LFP battery 56.1/68.8 kWh) |
| Target Audience | Long trips, limited charging access. | Daily urban commutes, access to home/work charging. |
🆚 Comparison with Main Competitor: Tesla Model 3 (Base RWD)
The Mazda EZ-6, especially in the fully electric version (EZ-6 EV), directly competes with the Tesla Model 3. Both are E-class liftbacks/sedans with rear-wheel drive and advanced technology.
| Parameter | Mazda EZ-6 (PHEV/EV) | Tesla Model 3 (Base RWD) | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drive Concept | Hybrid (PHEV) or EV | Pure EV | EZ-6 flexibility vs. Model 3 eco-focus |
| Total Range | Up to 1301 km (PHEV) / Up to 600 km (EV) | ≈513 km (WLTP) | Mazda PHEV leads in range |
| 0–100 km/h | 7.6 s (PHEV/EV) | 6.1–6.3 s | Tesla faster in pure acceleration |
| Interior Design | Luxury, digital dashboard + central screen | Radical minimalism, only central screen | Mazda — Comfort, Tesla — Minimalism |
| Handling Balance | 50:50 distribution, RWD | Excellent distribution, RWD | Both provide sporty driving pleasure |
🎯 Final Conclusions: Which to Choose?
The Mazda EZ-6 enters the market as a strong contender, with a unique set of qualities appealing to loyal Mazda fans and new buyers seeking alternatives to dominant EVs.
- For the Pragmatic: EZ-6 Hybrid PHEV — the ideal choice. Offers EV-level eco-friendliness in the city (up to 200 km on battery) and total safety for long trips thanks to the gasoline generator.
- For the Aesthete and Hedonist: Mazda EZ-6, any version, offers a more luxurious, emotional, and traditionally comfortable interior, with “Zero-Gravity” seats and premium finishes — an advantage over the minimalist Model 3.
- For the Driver: Tesla Model 3 retains the advantage in pure acceleration and access to the ultra-fast Supercharger network.
Mazda EZ-6 — the car for those who don’t want to sacrifice style and comfort for technology, offering a “bridge” to the electric future with maximum driving freedom.