Mazda’s New EZ-60 SUV Takes Aim at Tesla Model Y

Summary

Mazda is expanding its electric lineup with the unveiling of the EZ60 SUV, a joint venture with Chinese partner Changan. Following the debut of the EZ6 sedan, the EZ60 draws design inspiration from the Arata concept, featuring unique details like flying buttresses and side cameras replacing traditional mirrors. Built on the same platform as the Deepall S07, the EZ60 is expected to offer both fully electric and range-extended versions. Mazda plans to release more models under the partnership by 2030, while also developing its own electric vehicle platform for 2027. The EZ60’s interior will likely reflect Mazda’s premium standards, with more details coming at the 2025 Auto Shanghai show.

Takeaways

• 😀 Mazda is expanding its electric lineup with the debut of the EZ60, an electric SUV, in collaboration with its Chinese partner Changan.
• 😀 The EZ60 is the SUV counterpart to Mazda's previously unveiled EZ6 sedan, both products of a joint venture with Changan that has been ongoing for over 10 years.
• 😀 The EZ60 is expected to be marketed globally as the CX6E, indicating Mazda's intention to bring this electric vehicle outside of China.
• 😀 The design of the EZ60 is inspired by Mazda's Arata concept, aiming for a bold, attention-grabbing look, especially in contrast to the underperforming MX30 electric model.
• 😀 A standout feature of the EZ60 is the use of flying buttresses at the rear, a design element rarely seen in SUV body styles.
• 😀 The EZ60 also includes side cameras instead of traditional mirrors, a feature that has been legal in Chinese production vehicles for about two years.
• 😀 The EZ60 is believed to share its platform with Changan's Deepall S07, suggesting both a fully electric and a range-extended variant with a 1.5L gasoline engine.
• 😀 It is currently unconfirmed whether the range-extended version of the EZ60 will be available in Europe.
• 😀 The interior details of the EZ60 remain undisclosed, but a setup similar to the EZ6, with a large center display and minimal physical buttons, is expected.
• 😀 Mazda is also considering the development of two additional models under its partnership with Changan, slated to be released between 2028 and 2030.
• 😀 Mazda is working on an in-house electric vehicle platform, with the first vehicle expected to be released in 2027.

Q & A

What is Mazda's recent step in expanding its electric lineup?

Mazda is expanding its electric lineup with the help of its Chinese partner, Changan. After debuting the EZ6 sedan, Mazda is now unveiling its electric SUV counterpart, the EZ60.

What platform is the Mazda EZ60 being launched through?

The Mazda EZ60 is being unveiled through China's Waybo platform.

What is the expected global name for the Mazda EZ60?

The Mazda EZ60 is expected to be marketed outside China as the CX6E.

What design inspiration does the Mazda EZ60 take from?

The Mazda EZ60 draws inspiration from the Arata concept in terms of its visual design.

What is a key design feature of the Mazda EZ60 that is rarely seen in its category?

A standout design feature of the Mazda EZ60 is the use of flying buttresses at the rear, which is rarely seen in this body style.

What unique feature does the Mazda EZ60 have instead of traditional side mirrors?

The Mazda EZ60 uses side cameras instead of traditional mirrors, a feature that has been legal in Chinese production vehicles for about two years.

What platform is the Mazda EZ60 likely built on?

The Mazda EZ60 is likely built on the same platform as the Deepall S07, which is produced by Changan's electric subbrand.

Will the Mazda EZ60 be available in both fully electric and range-extended variants?

Yes, the Mazda EZ60 is expected to offer both a fully electric version and a range-extended variant that uses a 1.5L gasoline engine as a backup power source, though it's not confirmed whether the range-extending model will be offered in Europe.

What is known about the interior of the Mazda EZ60?

The interior of the Mazda EZ60 is currently under wraps, but it is expected to feature a similar setup to the EZ6, including a large center display and minimal physical buttons. The materials used will likely have a premium feel to align with Mazda's standards.

What future models is Mazda considering under its joint venture with Changan?

Mazda is considering two additional models under its joint venture with Changan, which could arrive between 2028 and 2030.

When is Mazda expected to release its first in-house platform for electric vehicles?

Mazda is developing its own in-house platform for electric vehicles, with the first car scheduled for release in 2027.