Mazda CX-6e – Half the Price of a Tesla Model Y
The global EV market is moving at lightning speed. On one side, premium brands are chasing luxury buyers with expensive electric cars. On the other, Chinese manufacturers are flooding the market with budget-friendly EVs. Somewhere in the middle, Mazda has decided to make its move. The company, which until recently had very little to offer in the electric space, has surprised everyone with the launch of the Mazda CX-6e.
This electric SUV is priced at just $17,000 (₹14–15 lakh approx.), making it almost half the price of a Tesla Model Y. For buyers who want an affordable EV SUV with solid features, this could be a game-changer.
So, what exactly makes the Mazda CX-6e special? Let’s explore.
Mazda’s Smart EV Strategy
Mazda hasn’t gone solo with this project. Instead, it partnered with a Chinese automaker and used an existing EV platform, while adding Mazda’s design language and quality touches.
This approach makes sense. Developing a fresh EV platform from scratch is expensive and slow. With this partnership, Mazda can offer a competitive affordable EV SUV while keeping costs low.
The result is the Mazda CX-6e (also known as EZ60 in China), which has already attracted more than 40,000 pre-orders—a strong sign of interest.
Mazda CX-6e Variants – E-REV and Pure EV
The CX-6e comes in two configurations:
1. Mazda CX-6e E-REV (Extended Range EV)
- 1.5L petrol engine used only as a generator, never driving the wheels.
- 31.7 kWh LFP battery.
- Pure EV range: ~150 km (WLTP).
- Combined range with generator: 800–1000 km.
- Power output: 190 kW (255 hp), 350 Nm torque.
2. Mazda CX-6e Pure EV
- Powered only by battery.
- Larger 78 kWh LFP battery pack.
- Claimed range: 600 km CLTC (~500 km WLTP / 310 miles).
- Same 190 kW power, 350 Nm torque.
Between the two, the Pure EV is the clear winner for anyone who wants a true electric driving experience with long range.
Charging and Performance
Charging speeds are decent for the segment, especially considering the low price.
- E-REV: 70 kW DC fast charging, 30–80% in about 25 minutes.
- Pure EV: 150 kW DC fast charging, 10–80% in ~40 minutes.
- AC charging: 11 kW for overnight home/office charging.
Performance figures are practical, not sporty—but that’s fine for most families:
- 255 hp, 350 Nm torque.
- Weight ~2000 kg.
- Comfortable city and highway cruising, though top speed isn’t the highlight.
Size and Dimensions
In terms of size, the Mazda CX-6e sits very close to the Tesla Model Y:
- Length: 4,850 mm (slightly longer than Model Y).
- Width: 1,935 mm.
- Height: 1,620 mm (slightly lower).
This means interior space will be practical enough for families, though a little smaller than Model Y.
Exterior Design – Mazda’s “Soul of Motion”
Mazda has applied its latest design philosophy, “Soul of Motion,” to the CX-6e.
- Sleek front with a fresh Mazda badge.
- Slim LED headlights with a full-width light bar.
- 19-inch standard wheels, 20-inch optional.
- Simple, modern SUV stance that looks more premium than its price tag suggests.
At first glance, it doesn’t feel like a budget car at all.
Interior and Features
Inside, the CX-6e surprises with features usually seen in far more expensive EVs:
- Huge 26.5-inch floating infotainment screen.
- 50-inch AR heads-up display.
- Optional 100-inch naked-eye 3D display in China.
- 12.3-inch driver’s display.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.
- Wireless 15W phone charging.
- Premium Harman Kardon 410W 9-speaker audio system on top trims.
The cabin feels futuristic, blending practicality with luxury touches at an affordable price.
Pricing – The Real Disruptor
This is where the Mazda CX-6e really shines.
- E-REV version: ~$16,000 (₹13–14 lakh).
- Pure EV version: ~$19,000 (₹15–16 lakh).
- Top-spec EV: ~$22,000 (₹18–19 lakh).
In comparison, the Tesla Model Y costs at least $30,000–35,000 more. This massive price gap is what makes the CX-6e so attractive to EV buyers.
Global Market Plans
The Mazda CX-6e (EZ60) is already available in China. Exports are expected from 2026, targeting:
- Europe
- Southeast Asia
- Australia
- UK
- Possibly North America (depending on tariffs).
Mazda may even set up local assembly in regions like Mexico to bypass import duties.
More Details: 2025 Mazda 6e EV: UK launch could hint at Australian plans – UPDATE
Rivals and Competition
The CX-6e will go head-to-head with several strong competitors in the affordable EV SUV segment, including:
- BYD’s growing lineup.
- XPeng G6.
- Zeekr 007 / 7X.
- Tesla Model Y (though far more expensive).
While it doesn’t beat Tesla in charging speed or efficiency, the CX-6e’s pricing advantage is unmatched.
Early Buyer Response
- 10,000 pre-orders in 24 hours.
- 20,000 orders in three weeks.
- 40,000+ confirmed pre-orders so far.
This proves there’s real demand for a practical and affordable EV SUV.
Conclusion – Will the Mazda CX-6e Succeed Globally?
The Mazda CX-6e may not deliver Tesla-level performance, but it doesn’t need to. Its strength lies in being a practical, feature-rich EV SUV at nearly half the price of a Tesla Model Y.
For families and first-time EV buyers, this balance of affordability, range, and features is exactly what’s missing in today’s market. If Mazda delivers on quality and service, the CX-6e could easily become a bestseller worldwide.
Mazda’s strategy is clear—focus on value-for-money EVs instead of chasing the premium crowd. And in today’s economy, that may be the smartest move of all.
🔎 FAQs about Mazda CX-6e
Q1: What is the price of the Mazda CX-6e?
The CX-6e starts around $16,000 (₹13–14 lakh) for the E-REV and $19,000 (₹15–16 lakh) for the Pure EV.
Q2: What is the range of the Mazda CX-6e?
The Pure EV offers up to 600 km CLTC (~500 km WLTP), while the E-REV can go 800–1000 km with its petrol generator.
Q3: How does the Mazda CX-6e compare to the Tesla Model Y?
It’s slightly smaller inside but costs half as much, making it a budget-friendly alternative.
Q4: Will the Mazda CX-6e launch in India?
While no official word yet, given its pricing, it could be a strong fit for the Indian EV market in the future.
Q5: When will the Mazda CX-6e launch globally?
Exports are expected to begin in 2026, starting with Europe and Asia-Pacific markets.