The anticipated release of the **Mazda 6e** in Australia appears to be gaining momentum, following the sighting of a right-hand drive prototype in Melbourne. Although Mazda has not officially confirmed the launch, this development suggests a strong likelihood of the vehicle entering the local market.
Images shared within the **Mazda6 Club Australia** group on Facebook showcased a camouflaged version of the **6e**, which is known as the **EZ-6** in markets outside of China. The vehicle, sporting Victorian number plates, is set to be produced in right-hand drive and is expected to debut in **Thailand later this year** and in the **UK** in **2026**.
Vinesh Bhindi, managing director of Mazda Australia, recently emphasized that while a business case for the **6e** is being developed, a local launch is not guaranteed. “At this stage, the only one we’re building a business case for, because it’s available in right-hand drive, is the Mazda 6e,” Bhindi explained. He further noted that Australia offers the most diverse model lineup for Mazda globally, reinforcing the company’s commitment to maintain this strategy.
Bhindi highlighted the Australian government’s push towards reducing the carbon footprint as a potential driver for increased adoption of battery electric vehicles. “I can only expect they will go stronger and harder towards battery electric-powered cars,” he stated. Mazda aims to respond to this demand, contingent on the viability of the business case.
The **Mazda 6e** is poised to fill the gap left by the discontinuation of the traditional **Mazda 6** sedan. This model will mark the brand’s first entry into the Australian market with a vehicle manufactured in China. Most Mazda cars sold in Australia are sourced from Japan or Thailand.
Launched in **China in 2024**, the **EZ-6/6e** is based on the **Deepal L07**, developed through a joint venture between Mazda and Chinese automaker **Changan**. The 6e measures approximately 50 mm longer and wider than its predecessor.
In terms of performance, the **6e** will be available in Europe with a rear-wheel drive electric powertrain, delivering **190 kW** of power and **320 Nm** of torque. The standard **68.8 kWh** lithium iron phosphate battery can be charged at a rate of up to **165 kW**, providing a range of **479 km** under the WLTP cycle. Alternatively, an **80 kWh** nickel manganese cobalt battery offers a slightly reduced power output of **180 kW** but extends the range to **552 km**.
All variants of the **6e** will operate on a **400V** electrical system. The Chinese market version includes an extended-range electric (EREV) option that features a **1.5-litre** petrol engine, which powers the vehicle’s battery rather than the wheels, enabling an electric-only range of between **130 km** and **200 km**.
In European markets, the **6e** is offered exclusively in high-spec **Takumi** or **Takumi Plus** grades, which include premium features such as **19-inch alloy wheels**, a panoramic glass roof, a **14.6-inch** infotainment system, and a **10.2-inch** digital instrument cluster. The Takumi Plus variant adds enhancements like a tan interior and Nappa leather upholstery.
While the **6e** has been confirmed for right-hand drive production, the **EZ-60** electric SUV, also developed in China, has not yet received a similar confirmation. **Daniel Wakelim**, national manager of product and business strategy at Mazda Australia, expressed enthusiasm about the design and technology of the EZ-60, although it is currently limited to the Chinese market.
Mazda is not solely reliant on its partnership with Changan for electric vehicle development. The company is also planning to launch its first fully in-house electric vehicle on a dedicated platform by **2027**, along with two additional models in collaboration with Changan, expected to be available between **2028 and 2030**.
Mazda’s strategy reflects a significant shift towards electric mobility, responding to both market demands and regulatory pressures aimed at reducing emissions. The anticipated arrival of the **Mazda 6e** in Australia could mark a pivotal moment for the brand as it embraces the future of automotive technology.
