Mazda's bold 6e electric sedan debuts with Kodo design and Changan roots

Mazda has unveiled the new 6e, a sleek electric sedan built on a Changan platform. The model reflects the brand's Kodo design philosophy, which aims to create visually striking cars. Inside, the focus remains on driver comfort and intuitive controls.

The 6e arrives as Mazda faces challenges in its electrification push. Sales of its earlier electric model, the MX-30, have dropped sharply in Germany, raising questions about the new car's market reception.

The Mazda 6e's interior delivers a premium feel, with deep-set seats and a cohesive layout. Stepping inside is described as effortless, reinforcing the brand's reputation for driver-centric design. However, some details have drawn criticism. The door handles are awkward to use, particularly in poor weather, while the side mirrors—equipped with cameras for measuring lateral clearance—may strike some as unnecessary.

Under the bonnet, Mazda's approach to engineering remains distinctive. Its Skyactiv engines follow a rightsizing strategy, balancing larger displacements with modest power outputs. This philosophy extends to the 6e, though its electric drivetrain marks a shift from Mazda's traditional focus on internal combustion.

The 6e's platform stems from Mazda's long-standing partnership with Changan, dating back to around 2010. While specifics of their collaboration remain unclear, the two companies have worked together for over a decade. Mazda has a history of such alliances, having previously co-developed models like the Tribute (a rebadged Ford) and the Mazda 2 Hybrid (based on the Toyota Yaris).

Yet the brand's move into electrification has hit obstacles. In Germany, fleet sales of the MX-30 plummeted to just 34 units in 2025, down from 288 the previous year. Most of these cars ended up in rental fleets, signalling weak demand. The 6e now faces the task of reversing this trend.

The Mazda 6e combines bold design with a driver-focused cabin, staying true to the brand's core values. Its success will depend on whether buyers embrace its electric powertrain and quirky features.

With MX-30 sales declining, the 6e's performance could determine Mazda's future in the evolving European market.