This New Chinese-Market Mazda Sedan Is Not a Mazda6

When Mazda first announced plans to develop its new Inline-6 engine, we hoped to see it in a rear-wheel drive successor to the Mazda6. That sport sedan dream was a popular rumor until Mazda confirmed in 2022 that that the rear-drive Mazda6 was not coming any time soon. While that dream may be gone, an elegant new rear-wheel drive mid-sized Mazda sedan is coming somewhere. Unfortunately for American enthusiasts, it is an electrified sedan and it is only planned for the Chinese market.

This is the Mazda EZ-6, a product of the alliance between Mazda and domestic Chinese carmaker Changan. It should eventually be available on the Chinese market as both an EV and a plug-in hybrid. The EV variant uses a rear-mounted motor, while the hybrid version would pair an electric motor with an unnamed internal combustion engine.

Specs on the EZ-6 are few and far between, but the brand does claim that the EV can go around 370 miles on a single charge. The plug-in hybrid, meanwhile, could go past 620 miles on a charge and a tank of fuel. Both seemingly get the same luxurious interior, complete with a reclining passenger seat. Power, performance, pricing, and other figures have not been announced.

While the EZ-6 is unlikely to reach the U.S. any time soon, the sharp sedan at least hints at what a larger Mazda sedan could look like in the future. Mazda is currently focused on crossovers and the seemingly immortal Miata, but a big sedan like this would be a welcome addition to the brand's American lineup.

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