Mazda6 returns as all-electric Tesla Model 3 rival
The Mazda6 is heading back to Europe, recast as an all-electric executive car with up to 345 miles of range to rival the Tesla Model 3.
Unveiled at the Brussels Motor Show and due to launch in the UK in early 2026, the Mazda6e is a five-door hatchback with fastback styling and a choice of two powertrain options.
It succeeds the Mazda6 internal combustion engine-powered Mazda6, first launched in 2002 and axed in 2023 on the back of dwindling sales, and is the European version of the EZ-6 unveiled last year by JV partner Changan Mazda for China and available in fully electric and range-extender versions.
Unlike the Chinese-only EX-6, and the MX-30 crossover already on sale in the UK, the Mazda6e won’t offer a range-extender and the line-up will centre around two fully electric powertrains.
These include a performance-focused variant that pairs a 285hp motor with a 68.8kWh battery. This delivers a 0-62mph performance of 7.6 seconds while WLTP range stands at up to 300 miles. It’s able to charge at up to 200kW DC, giving a 10 to 80% charge in 22 minutes.
The longer-range version comes with a 244hp motor and an 80kWh battery. It reaches 62mph in 7.8 seconds and enables a WLTP range of up to 345 miles.
Both versions produce the same 320Nm of torque with a rear-wheel-drive layout.
Suspension, power steering and braking have been tailored by Mazda Research Europe to meet European and UK preferences and are expected to deliver the brand’s usual engaging driver experience.
The fastback-style hatchback introduces the next evolution of Mazda’s ‘Kodo Soul of Motion’ design philosophy with sleek looks, a low roofline and short-deck coupé silhouette, while retaining the functionality of a five-door hatchback and delivering a 330-litre boot and 70-litre ‘frunk’ front boot.
New glowing signature wing lights around the grille feature dynamic illumination which makes the ‘wings’ appear to flutter when the car is charging, while the lighting also indicates charge status.
The Mazda6e also features 19-inch wheels with a range-boosting aerodynamic design, an electronically extendable rear spoiler, and newly designed Mazda lettering that replaces the brand logo badge at the rear of the car.
The interior is inspired by the Japanese concept of ‘Ma’, which emphasises the beauty of space, and is equipped with a panoramic roof and floating centre console. Onboard technology includes a 14.6-inch touchscreen and a 10.2-inch instrument set, complemented by an augmented reality head-up display.
Trim levels will include Takumi and Takumi Plus; the former will feature beige or black artificial leather, while Takumi Plus offers premium tan Nappa leather.
Clearly referencing how the UK’s ZEV mandate is pushing the market to fully electric cars, Jeremy Thomson, managing director, Mazda Motors UK, said: “In the UK we are facing some unique and complex challenges in the balance between EV legislation and consumer demand but at Mazda we will introduce new models and ensure our product range fits the pace of actual consumer demand in the UK with technologies that are amongst the best in the market.
“When it arrives in UK showrooms in 2026, the Mazda6e will be a fantastic and timely addition to our multi-solution approach that includes mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric offerings.”
The Mazda6e will go on sale in left-hand-drive European markets this year before arriving in UK dealers in the first half of 2026. Pricing and full specifications will be revealed later.
Natalie Middleton
Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for over 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day. Natalie edits all the Fleet World websites and newsletters, and loves to hear about any latest industry news - or gossip.
