The Mazda 6e promises sleek design and Mazda refinement in an affordable EV package, but early reviews reveal glaring flaws that could turn buyers away. From a frustrating touchscreen-heavy interface and darty steering to a cramped rear seat, subpar ride quality, and its heavy reliance on Chinese engineering that dilutes Mazda’s soul, the 6e falls short of expectations. Priced under $55,000 AUD in Australia, it underperforms against rivals like the Tesla Model 3 and BYD Seal. If you’re seeking a true Mazda driving experience or family-friendly space, look elsewhere – this EV feels like a rushed compromise.
Introduction: Mazda’s EV Gamble That’s Falling Flat
Mazda enthusiasts have long cherished the brand for its “zoom-zoom” ethos – cars that blend sharp handling, premium interiors, and emotional design without the bloat of tech overload. The original Mazda6 was a highlight: a driver’s sedan that punched above its weight in fun and finesse. So when Mazda announced the 2026 6e – a fully electric revival built on Changan’s EPA1 platform – hopes were high. Priced below $55,000 AUD before on-roads for Australia (mid-2026 launch), with over 500km WLTP range and 190kW RWD power, it seemed like the perfect Tesla Model 3 rival for those craving Mazda magic in EV form.
But after diving into hands-on previews, European test drives, and owner forums, the shine fades fast. From my analysis of reviews across Auto Express, What Car?, Autocar, and Reddit threads, the 6e isn’t the game-changer it promises. It’s a Chinese-built (as the EZ-6) rebadge with Mazda styling slapped on – a cost-saving move that exposes compromises in ergonomics, dynamics, and usability. In a segment dominated by the efficient BYD Seal and connected Tesla Model 3, the 6e stumbles with issues that could sour the ownership experience. If you’re eyeing this for its looks alone, pump the brakes. Here are the top five reasons to avoid the Mazda 6e – backed by real-world critiques and spec breakdowns – and why rivals might serve you better.
Reason 1: Infotainment Overload – Touchscreen Hell in a Driver’s Car
Mazda has built its reputation on intuitive, tactile controls – think physical knobs for climate and crisp switchgear that let you keep eyes on the road. The 6e? It tosses that out the window with a massive 14.6-inch touchscreen dominating the dash, handling everything from mirrors to wipers. Reviewers like CarThrottle call it “annoying to use,” with buried menus requiring multiple taps while driving – a far cry from the MX-5’s straightforward setup. The UI, borrowed from Changan’s Deepal roots, features blocky fonts and a non-Mazda layout that’s clunky for quick adjustments. Even basics like ADAS toggles hide in submenus, leading to distracted glances that could spell trouble on Aussie highways.
In tests, the screen’s responsiveness lags during navigation reroutes or Apple CarPlay mirroring, and the lack of haptic feedback makes interactions feel cheap. What Car? notes it’s “disappointing for long-time Mazda owners,” who expect better ergonomics. Wireless charging pads overheat phones, and the voice assistant stumbles on accents – fine for casual use, but frustrating in traffic. Compared to the Model 3’s seamless 15-inch display or Seal’s intuitive rotary dial, the 6e’s tech feels like a step backward. If you value Mazda’s driver focus, this digital deluge is a deal-breaker.
Reason 2: Driving Dynamics That Miss the Mazda Mark
Mazda cars sing on twisty roads – precise steering, balanced chassis, that Jinba Ittai harmony. The 6e? It drives like a generic EV, not a Mazda. Autocar praises the “decent job” of masking its Changan origins, but admits it “doesn’t do anything especially well” against talented rivals. The steering is “darty and abrupt,” per The Telegraph, with unnatural heft that fights inputs even in Sport mode. No feedback through the wheel – it’s numb, like wrestling a video game controller.
The ride is another sore spot: firm suspension leads to a “fractious and lumpy” feel over undulations, with a “pogo effect” on uneven roads. What Car? calls it less comfortable than the Model 3 or VW ID.7, with body control that’s “not very well managed” despite the setup. At 1,800kg, the low-slung battery aids stability, but the RWD motor (190kW, 6.5s 0-100km/h) feels under-tuned – linear but uninspiring, lacking the playful torque vectoring of a Hyundai Ioniq 6. Reddit users echo this: “It doesn’t feel like a Mazda… lost its soul”. For enthusiasts, it’s a betrayal – fun? Barely. Avoid if you drive for joy.
Reason 3: Cramped Rear Seat and Questionable Practicality
The 6e’s fastback style looks stunning, but it bites back in usability. Rear headroom is notoriously tight at 950mm – taller passengers (over 1.85m) will hunch, thanks to the sloping roofline and raised battery floor. Auto Express notes “footroom is a little tight” and headroom “quite tight,” making it less family-friendly than the outgoing petrol 6. Legroom is decent for mid-size, but the high floor cramps knee space for adults on longer trips.
Boot space fares better at 466L (expanding to 1,200L), with a low loading lip and electric tailgate – practical for groceries or golf bags. But no spare tire (just a kit) leaves you vulnerable on remote Aussie roads, and the 15L frunk is tiny for cables only. The glass roof darkens the cabin excessively, even with shades, feeling claustrophobic in traffic. Compared to the Seal’s 400L but more flexible load area or Model 3’s airy rear, the 6e prioritizes style over substance. Parkers calls it “comfortable sterilisation” – spacious upfront, but trails competitors elsewhere. If practicality matters, skip this poseur.
Reason 4: Build Quality and Reliability Concerns from Chinese Roots
Mazda’s Japanese badge screams reliability, but the 6e’s Changan-built reality raises red flags. As the EZ-6 in China, it’s unproven long-term – early reports highlight “subpar suspension” and stability wobbles at speed. Reddit forums buzz with skepticism: “Not SkyActiv… driving will feel different,” and fears of hasty releases tarnishing Mazda’s rep. The EPA1 platform is solid, but panel gaps and interior rattles in prototypes hint at inconsistent QC – unlike Mazda’s Hiroshima precision.
LFP battery (78kWh) promises durability (3,000+ cycles), but usable capacity (~66kWh) caps real-world range at 400km, skeptical testers say. Charging (150kW DC) is middling, and no V2L confirmation yet. Warranty? Mazda’s six-year coverage helps, but Changan-sourced parts could mean longer waits Down Under. Vs Toyota’s bulletproof hybrids or Hyundai’s proven Ioniq line, the 6e’s origins scream risk. If reliability is key, Mazda’s gamble might cost you.
Reason 5: Overhyped Value – Better Alternatives Steal the Show
At under $55,000 AUD, the 6e seems like a steal – until you stack it against rivals. The BYD Seal ($49,888) offers 570km range and 230kW for less, with superior efficiency. Tesla’s Model 3 ($61,900) laps it in software, charging network, and resale – plus sharper dynamics. Hyundai Ioniq 6 ($65,000) edges range (545km) with better ride comfort. The 6e trails in most metrics: slower charging, tighter space, clunkier tech.
Autocar dubs it a “forced hand” – good but generic. CAR Magazine calls it a “disappointment machine,” failing Mazda’s values. In Australia, where EV incentives favor locals, the Chinese import feels like a hedge – not a hero. U.S. buyers? Forget it; tariffs block it entirely. If value means balanced excellence, the 6e underwhelms.
Conclusion: Steer Clear Unless You’re a Die-Hard Fan
The Mazda 6e had potential to bridge Mazda’s heritage with EV modernity, but it stumbles on usability, dynamics, space, reliability, and value. It’s a handsome shell hiding average guts – a reminder that badging doesn’t make magic. If you crave Mazda soul, stick to the CX-5 hybrid or wait for a true in-house EV. Better yet, test a Seal or Model 3. The 6e isn’t a disaster, but in 2025’s crowded field, it’s easily avoidable. What’s your take – worth the risk, or pass? Drop a comment below.
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