Mazda6e electric sedan debuts in Europe

Mazda has officially launched its electric Mazda6e in Europe. The firm describes it as “a new era, transferring the seamless connection between car and driver into the age of electric mobility”. 

The emphasis is on precise handling, intuitive response and a natural sense of control, or Jinba Ittai. It means ‘horse and driver as one’, a concept Mazda first introduced with the MX-5 in 1989 and then later in the Mazda6 back in 2002.

Read more from our first look at the Mazda6e here.

The five-door hatchback’s driving dynamics are ‘fine-tuned for confidence and lasting driving pleasure’. A driver-focused cockpit and ergonomically designed seats ensure ease, comfort and control, lasting for longer journeys.

There are two electric powertrains in Europe, delivering 190kW (16.6kWh/100km) or 180kW (long range, 80kWh battery, 550km of range, 16.5kWh/100km). Both offer 320Nm of torque, ‘ensuring smooth acceleration and responsive rear-wheel drive performance’. Mazda quotes a 0 to 100km/h figure of under eight seconds and a top speed of 175km/h.

Engineers from Japan and Germany refined the steering, suspension and pedal calibration for a ‘harmonious and reassuring driving feel’. Rear-wheel drive, multi-link rear suspension, and an evenly balanced 50:50 weight distribution imbue the 6e with confident handling and direct feedback. Carefully tuned steering and damper characteristics ‘increase precision in every manoeuvre’.

An integrated brake control system means easy transitions between acceleration, braking and cornering, enhancing stability and ride comfort, Mazda says. A rear spoiler deploys automatically at 90km/h for extra downforce and improved high-speed stability.

There are three drive modes, Normal, Sport and Individual. 

Normal mode harmonises range and performance, with regenerative braking and steering assistance on standard level.

Sport mode bumps engagement and dynamic, with stronger acceleration, medium regenerative braking, and increased steering resistance for better road feel.

Individual mode allows drivers to configure all these parameters. Acceleration can be set to either medium or strong, regenerative braking is in four levels and steering resistance is in either standard or sport.

Mazda says its 6e retains the distinctive driving experience of its predecessors ‘while introducing a new level of precision, responsiveness and refinement’. Think: a dynamic and engaging Mazda driving experience.

It goes on sale in Europe midyear.