Mazda 6e first drive

By Bill McCarthy

Mazda has never been afraid to buck the trend. The brand has continued to produce large diesel SUVs and high-capacity petrol engines, and now it makes a bold return to the D-segment with the rebirth of the Mazda6 – this time as a full-electric model.

The original Mazda6 was a stylish alternative to rivals like the Ford Mondeo and VW Passat. Produced across three generations from 2002 to 2023, it built a loyal following among both retail and fleet customers. This new EV reinvents the formula with a sleek five-door hatchback-style saloon that aims to blend tradition with future-focused design.

Pricing and Positioning

With both UK models priced under £40,000 – £38,995 for the Takumi and £39,995 for the Takumi Plus – the Mazda6e is not a budget offering. However, it comes generously equipped and delivers a premium feel that helps justify the cost. And then there’s the six-year or 100,000-mile new vehicle warranty, an 8-year or 100,000-mile battery warranty, and 3-year or 60,000-mile European roadside assistance 

Unlike the European market, which receives two battery options, the UK gets a single, larger 78kWh LFP battery. The electric motor produces 258ps and 290Nm of torque, delivering a combined WLTP range of 348 miles. The Mazda6e joins the smaller CX-30 EV in the line-up, but it is a very different proposition – bigger, sleeker, and more refined.

Performance and charging

Driving the rear wheels, the Mazda6e reaches 62mph in 7.3 seconds, while a 10 to 80 per cent charge on a 200kW DC charger takes 24 minutes. During a 150-mile test drive through the Welsh countryside of Snowdonia, the UK-spec version delivered better performance than the left-hand-drive model I sampled last year on Shropshire’s challenging country lanes. The car felt composed, responsive, and impressively refined throughout.

Design and styling

Developed under what Mazda describes as ‘Electrifying Design Crafted to Perfection’, the Mazda6e introduces the next evolution of the brand’s Kodo – Soul of Motion design philosophy.

Translated, it might read as: the marriage of futuristic electric performance with the brand’s signature, human-centric artistry. All a bit ethereal and highbrow sounding, but it has a striking presence.

The exterior is sleek and aerodynamic, with signature wing lights around the grille that glow to indicate charging status. The vehicle sits on 19-inch aerodynamic wheels featuring a sporty five-spoke design with flat black surfaces.

At the rear, a distinctive light signature with a horizontal tail light bar is complemented by Mazda lettering replacing the rear logo badge for the first time. Another Mazda first is the electronically extendable rear spoiler, designed to enhance stability at speed.

Interior and practicality

The cabin is spacious and airy, featuring a panoramic roof, a floating centre console, and soft-touch materials across both trim levels. The Takumi features black or stone Maztex, Mazda’s durable and easy-to-clean vegan leather alternative.

The Takumi Plus upgrades to premium tan Nappa leather with artificial suede cloth woven fabric seat trim. Both front seats are powered and heated.The cockpit includes a 14.6-inch touchscreen, a 10.2-inch instrument cluster, and an augmented reality head-up display. However, like many modern cars with large screens, there is a range of sometimes confusing menus and sub-menus which can be distracting for the driver.

On the practicality front, the hatchback offers a 337-litre boot, expandable via 60-40 split-folding rear seats, plus a 72-litre front ‘frunk’ – generous storage for the segment.

Driving dynamics

On the road, the Mazda6e feels reminiscent of its predecessor, with sharp handling and good stability through corners – likely aided by the new rear spoiler. The steering is nicely weighted and responsive, while the suspension strikes a firm yet comfortable balance.Refinement is a strong point.

On smoother roads, tyre noise was virtually absent, and even on poorer surfaces, noise was kept to a minimum. The car rarely felt unsettled by ruts or smaller potholes, contributing to a composed and engaging drive. Early doubts about the brakes were dispelled during a couple of sharp stops to avoid oncoming tractors on narrow Welsh country lanes – the system proved responsive and reassuring.

Verdict

The Mazda6e is a stylish and driver-focused with competitive range and charging speeds at a sub-£40k price point. It should also carry Mazda’s famed realiability.

However, the infotainment system can be distracting, the acceleration is decent if unremarkable, and the lack of a smaller battery option limits choice in a crowded segment. For those who prioritise design and driving engagement, it remains an appealing option.