New Mazda 6e: The best-looking electric saloon ever?

Stop the press, Mazda’s head-turning new 6 is coming to the UK! But can it dethrone Tesla’s Model 3 as the segment’s EV of choice? Find out below.

You’re looking at the ‘next chapter’ in Mazda’s European EV story. And, while we don’t like to judge a book by its cover, this one’s shaping up to be an interesting tale indeed. 

First things first: yes, it’s all-electric-only — which for some ICE loyalists means it’s doomed from the get-go. Hedge your propulsion proclivities for just a second, though, and soak in the 6’s masterful design. Blending sportiness and subtlety in effortless fashion, we think the 6e is not only the most handsome car in Mazda’s current range, but the whole EV saloon segment. Sure, it’s lines might not be as dynamic as a Rimac’s, or its doors as flamboyant as a Lotus Evija’s, but for an everyday family car that can seat five and eke over 300 miles from a charge, what else comes close?

It's just as stylish on the inside, too. Traditionally something of a Mazda weak point, we’re pleased to report this cabin looks properly premium with its diamond stitched door cards, warm accent lighting, and metallic flashes galore. As for the equipment on offer, expect luxuries such as a panoramic roof, an augmented head-up display, and a large 14.6-inch infotainment screen. However, fans of the luscious tan Nappa leather (as pictured) will need to upgrade to Takumi Plus spec — as only an artificial faux-leather comes as standard.  

Unfortunately, things start to unravel a little when it comes to the performance and range. Starting with the positive, all models boast a rear-wheel drive setup that’s reportedly been honed ‘to match European and UK preferences’. Furthermore, the 6 looks to sit on Michelin’s high-performance Pilot Sport 4 tyre — suggesting sporty intentions — while the promo literature is thick with reference to an ‘engaging driver experience’. 

So what’s the catch? Well, it’s just not very quick — regardless of which battery option you pick. In 68.8 kWh guise you get a respectable sounding 254 bhp, and it would be if this wasn’t a heavy EV. That means 0-60 mph is dealt with in 7.6 seconds which, while not criminally lethargic, is the same time an economy-focused BMW 320 diesel took over 10 years ago. 

The driving range is similarly adequate. As standard, 300 miles is your limit. Upgrading to a long-range 80 kWh model does see that figure jump to 345 miles, however, you’ll forfeit 14 bhp in the process — ponies the 6 can ill-afford to lose. Helping to compound the problem, Tesla’s latest long-range Model 3 will achieve 100 miles more per charge and blows the Mazda out the water when it comes to power and acceleration.

Mazda’s new 6e is something of a contradiction, then. On the one hand, its phenomenal looks and sporty chassis should cater to true enthusiasts. On the other, its unremarkable performance, range, and EV-only billing, mean it’s unlikely to appeal to the same petrolheads who admire the setup and styling. If ever a car was ripe for a hot Mazda Performance Series (MPS) version, surely this is it? 

But what do you think — is the new 6e one to watch when it arrives in 2026?

Hero image credit: Mazda