later this year.
Mazda have partnered with Chinese firm Changan Automobile on the 6e. This electric car will come with two electric powertrain options. The first option has a 255bhp motor - sufficient for 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds - paired with a 68.8kWh battery, offering a claimed 300 miles of range and a 10-80 per cent recharge time of 22 minutes with a 200kW DC charger.
In addition, there's a 241bhp long-range model with a larger 80kWh battery. This version is capable of achieving an enhanced range of 345 miles, as its name implies. However, it takes 0.2 seconds longer to reach 62mph (7.8s), and takes 45 minutes to charge to 80 per cent from 10 per cent. The shared features of both models include 236lb ft of torque and a rear-wheel drive system.
‘Kodo: Soul of Motion’ design philosophy, the 6-series gets the Japanese manufacturer's typically lovely styling. This means an unfussy, smooth silhouette, a low roofline and a short rear deck to keep things sporty yet tidy.
But it's still pretty cool.
You'll have two interior trim options to choose from - 'Takumi' and 'Takumi Plus'. Each comes with a choice of leather and surface finishes, although we'd advise against the cream and black combination.
The 6e gets a panoramic roof, while inside there's a floating centre console, plus a 10.2in augmented driver display alongside a 14.6in infotainment screen. There's accommodation for up to 330 litres in the boot and 70 litres in the front, which should be more than enough.
Not quite there yet, but we’re keeping our spirits up.
