Mazda has definitively introduced the sportier option of the upcoming 6e electric sedan, and it is receiving all of the praise it is due. The first updated 6e Sport Edition almost resembles a luxury EV, priced at twice its value. It has aggressive styling changes, much better tech to boast about, and an interior that is surprisingly luxurious, and is making a splash in China where it is already on sale. But mainly, what we are all talking about is how much it costs—approximately $22,000. That’s less than a regular Honda Civic here in the U.S. and this Mazda has far more impressive features generally reserved for cars priced significantly higher.
A More Aggressive, Eye-Catching Design
Mazda didn't just stick a badge on it and call it sporty, the 6e Sport Edition comes with a full cosmetic upgrade. It now rides on 19-inch gloss black wheels that give it immediately more presence, while the colour of the calipers, painted red, suggests it has some power to back up the aesthetic. Between this and a blackout of the exterior trim, the modest chrome touches on the base version of the car have gone, replaced by something with a bit more attitude.
This is a more muscular, more confident version of the 6e, that any young person or anyone else who just wants to stand out would identify with. And it's not just cosmetic changes to announce it's stronger personality and attempt to challenge not only the electric sedans in its class but also possibly some of the more premium brands.
Two Models, One Objective: Awesome Range
In China, Mazda will be selling the 6e in a fully electric (EV) form, alongside an extended-range (EREV) version. The EV will use a rear-mounted electric motor to provide something about 255 peaks, depending on the battery. Customers can choose a 56.1 kWh or 68.8 kWh LFP battery; it will get up to 600 km (around 373 miles) range (China's CLTC test cycle).
The EREV will be directed at buyers who want the freedom of long-distance travel without being fully dependent on a public charger. The EREV uses a small 1.5 Liter gasoline engine that does not actually power the wheels directly. Instead, the gasoline engine acts as a generator to the 160 kW electric motor. With a battery size of up to 28.4 kWh, the EREV will get up to 1,301 km (about 800 miles) of range from a full tank and charge. Although we probably won't see the hybrid version coming to the States, it offers a fascinating step between gas and full EV.
Inside the Cabin: Where Technology Meets Comfort
When you get inside the 6e Sport Edition, it feels less like a low-cost sedan and more like a high-end lounge. The interior is sleek, modern, and full of technology. Features include a huge central 14.6-inch touchscreen that is set with a high-speed Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip; climate and media inputs are reliably swift and slick.
What really gives the experience a futuristic feel is the unique 50-inch augmented-reality head-up display. Driving data is presented onto the windshield at your point of view, so you rarely need to look away. There is also an expensive 14-speaker Sony audio system integrated within the cabin, along with ambient lighting that allows you to customize to like 64 different colors of mood lighting. Even down to details like Alcantara seat inserts & red stitching provides a suggestion of luxury in a low-budget car.
The Price that Seems Too Good to Be True
That the price is the most shocking thing about this car. In China, the starting price for the 6e Sport Edition is about ¥161,800, which is approximately $22,500 in U.S. dollars. The top of the line model with all options fully electric and premium touches is ¥181,180, or about $25,300. With so much premium feeling in the mix, at that price, it is hard to believe that the car is so affordable
As a frame of reference, the starting price for a base-model Mazda3 sedan is about the same in the U.S. but without the advanced tech and interior, and the electric powertrain. That is what makes the 6e Sport Edition so attractive. There would certainly be a market here in the U.S. if Mazda brought it here.
Specifications Table
| Feature | EV Version (China) | EV Version (Europe) | EREV Version (China) |
| Battery | 56.1 / 68.8 kWh LFP | 68.8 kWh LFP / 80 kWh NMC | 18.9 / 28.4 kWh LFP |
| Max Range (CLTC / WLTP) | 480 / 600 km (CLTC) | 479 / 552 km (WLTP) | 130 / 200 km EV + 1,301 km total |
| Motor Power | 190 kW (255 hp) | 180–190 kW | 160 kW |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Fast Charging Time (30–80%) | ~15 minutes (200 kW) | ~15 minutes (200 kW) | ~20 minutes (EREV) |
| Infotainment System | 14.6-inch display | Same | Same |
| AR Head-Up Display | 50-inch | 50-inch | 50-inch |
| Audio | 14-speaker Sony system | Same | Same |
| Price (China) | ¥161,800–¥181,180 | TBD | Similar |
Will It Come to the U.S.?
As of now, Mazda has confirmed the 6e for Europe and China but has not made any announcements about any plans for a U.S. launch. With that said, the 6e shares a similar core philosophy for past Mazda sedans that are strongly represented in the U.S. market – attractive styling, affordable pricing, and good driving dynamics.
While U.S. consumers have largely moved to buying SUVs and crossovers, the U.S. market is still a passionate segment for sedans, especially if they are electric, stylish, and price competitive. Should Mazda decide to make available the 6e Sport Edition into America, we think it would have a place among younger buyers, tech savvy buyers, or commuters that wanted more premium vehicle without the premium level price.
Source(Image / Thumbnail): carscoops
