Mazda’s former fleet favourite returns as an executive EV with award-winning design and a 348-mile range. Natalie Middleton takes the keys to our new Mazda6e long-term test car.

P11D: £39,930  BiK: 4%  Official range: 348 miles  On fleet range: N/A  Efficiency as tested: N/A

First report:

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Our new long-term Mazda6e revives the name of a former fleet favourite, elevating its legacy straight into the era of electrification – and we have six months to see if it lives up to the hype.

Born out of Mazda’s collaboration with Chinese automotive giant Changan, the 6e pairs Japanese design philosophy with a proven electric vehicle platform.

While it’s based on Changan’s EPA1 architecture – the very same platform underpinning the Deepal SL03 and L07 under their 50/50 joint venture – this model (known domestically in China as the Mazda EZ-6) has been completely transformed. The exterior features sweeping Kodo design lines, innovative lighting and frameless windows. Coupled with a cabin that benefits from premium microsuede materials, it feels distinctly upmarket, instantly recognisable as a Mazda and has already clinched the 2026 World Car Design of the Year title. Our testing so far confirms it is an absolute head-turner.

Interestingly, as with the Volvo ES90 that it replaces on our long-term fleet, this is a hatchback hiding in a saloon’s body. This design trend is becoming increasingly common as carmakers seek aerodynamic efficiency to boost electric range without compromising on everyday practicality.

Housed under the cabin floor is a 78kWh LFP battery that, notably, is now also standard for the 6e across mainland Europe, moving away from the dual-battery strategy originally introduced. It’s good for a combined WLTP range of 348 miles.

What’s perhaps more pertinent given Mazda’s heritage is that there’s a rear-wheel-drive motor that produces 258hp and 290Nm of torque, accelerating from 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds. It’s designed to channel the brand’s traditional Jinba Ittai driving dynamics, giving drivers a choice of three modes.

There are two grades available: Mazda’s familiar Takumi and Takumi Plus designations. We’re testing the latter, which pairs the range-wide full-length panoramic roof with an electric sunshade and adds premium tan Nappa leather with Artificial Suede Cloth woven fabric seat trim, along with a dedicated touchscreen for rear passengers to activate various functions.

Both models come with an array of tech, featuring some quite notable additions. We’re already a fan of the premium 14-speaker Sony sound system and the highly practical 360-degree camera system.

Throw in a sub-£40k price tag for both versions, and Mazda’s latest flagship packs a massive proposition for company car drivers that we’re looking forward to reviewing over the coming months.