KUALA LUMPUR: The highly-anticipated 2024 Beijing Auto Show has kickstarted with a bang in China. Among the several exciting models stealing the spotlight at the event is the Mazda EZ-6. This is an all-electric sedan, which is set to replace the Mazda 6 in the country.

The Mazda EZ-6 is developed in collaboration with Changan Mazda and is based on the Deepal SL03, a mid-size sedan produced by Changan’s EV subsidiary, Deepal. 

The key highlights of the all-new Mazda EZ-6 are as follows - 

Dimensions

The EZ-6 measures 4,921 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, and 1,485 mm in height 1,485 mm tall and spans a wheelbase of 2900 mm. Compared to the ICE-powered Mazda 6, it is 56 mm longer, 50 mm wider, and 35 mm taller and also has a 70 mm longer wheelbase.

Exterior 

The overall shape of the EZ-6 looks similar to the Deepal SL03, however, it confirms its unique identity with distinctive front and rear design. The EV sports the brand’s signature ‘Soul of Motion’ design philosophy with a bold grille and slim LED headlights dominating the dynamic front fascia. At the rear, we can find a short tailgate, eye-catching round tail lights and a full-width light strip.

Drivetrain

Mazda has not disclosed the full specifications of the EV but has confirmed that it will share things with the Deepal sedan. For reference, the latter comes in two powertrain options in China 

• A BEV configuration including a rear-mounted motor, available in two power tunes - 218 PS or 258 PS, both with a peak torque of 320 Nm. The battery ranges from 58.9 kWh to 66.8 kWh, providing a driving range of up to 610 km (CLTC cycle).
• A plug-in hybrid variant incorporating a 1.5-litre inline-four petrol engine, electric motors rated at 218 PS (or 238 PS) and 320 Nm, and a 19 kWh or 28.4 kWh battery package. With the smaller battery, you can cruise up to 1,140 km in hybrid mode and 135 km in electric mode, while the larger battery provides 1,200 km in hybrid mode and 200 km range in all-electric mode.

Interior

Inside the cabin, most of the components are identical to those found in the SL03. Key highlights include - a flat-bottom steering wheel, a 10.2-inch digital instrument panel, a 14.6-inch infotainment display, slim air vents, and an ambient lighting system.

Safety

As for safety, the EZ-6 is equipped with a range of cutting-edge safety and driver-assistance systems. These include accident avoidance systems and a smart parking system, which offers voice-controlled operation of the vehicle even when the driver is not inside.

The production of the Mazda EZ-6 is set to begin later this year, with deliveries in China to follow. Regarding the EV's launch in other markets, there is currently no official announcement.

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