Mazda has pulled the covers off its latest SUV, the EZ-60, and it’s not exactly playing it safe. This is a big, bold family SUV that doesn’t just offer electric power, but also a plug-in hybrid option – giving buyers more choice at a time when some manufacturers are going all-in on electric.
The EZ-60 made its first appearance at the Shanghai Motor Show, and while it’s mainly aimed at the Chinese market, it’s almost certain to arrive in Europe next year – probably under a different name like the CX-6e to match Mazda’s current line-up.
Big on Style – But Not in the Way You’d Expect
First impressions? It’s an SUV that wants to look more like a sporty estate car. It sits low and wide, with a sleek roofline and big wheels, making it feel more athletic than boxy. The design is full of clever aerodynamic tricks too, like camera-based wing mirrors instead of the usual bulky ones, and a hollow section at the rear to help smooth airflow.
At the front, you get Mazda’s trademark grille, but with a twist – it’s part of a smart design that helps channel air over the bonnet more efficiently. The back is just as dramatic, with slim LED lights and a sharply raked rear window that gives the car a bit of a concept-car vibe.
In terms of size, the EZ-60 is bigger than both the Mazda CX-5 and CX-60, and even larger than a Tesla Model Y. So, if it’s space you’re after, this one should deliver.
Inside: Screens, Screens, and More Screens
Step inside, and you can’t miss the tech. The dashboard is dominated by a huge 26-inch widescreen that stretches almost the entire width of the cabin. There are no physical buttons to be found – everything is controlled by voice, touch, or even hand gestures (though Mazda hasn’t really explained how that last bit works yet).
Drivers get a head-up display for key info like speed and range, and there’s even a 23-speaker sound system. If you and your front passenger have different tastes in music, no problem – there are speakers built into the headrests so you can each listen to your own playlist.
Power, Range, and How Far It’ll Really Go
The EZ-60 comes with two power options. If you go fully electric, Mazda claims you’ll get up to 373 miles on a charge. The plug-in hybrid model is said to manage an incredible 621 miles before you’ll need to top up the battery or the fuel tank. That sounds impressive, but be aware – these numbers are based on a more generous Chinese test cycle, so the real-world range is likely to be lower in Europe.
Both versions will be rear-wheel drive only, and Mazda says it’s designed the EZ-60 to feel good to drive – even comparing it to the famously fun MX-5 sports car. Whether that holds true for a big SUV remains to be seen.
Charging and Practicality
Mazda hasn’t revealed all the charging details yet, but expect it to match or better similar models, with fast-charging speeds that should get you from 30% to 80% battery in around 35 minutes.
As for practicality, Mazda hasn’t gone into huge detail, but given its larger size, you can expect plenty of room for passengers and a generous boot. And with the slim side mirrors replaced by cameras, visibility should be good despite the sporty design.
Will It Be Worth the Wait?
There’s no official word on UK prices yet, but if the EZ-60 does arrive here as the CX-6e, it will give Mazda a much-needed entry into the electric SUV market – one of the hottest sectors right now.
It’s bold, it’s packed with tech, and it offers something a bit different in terms of looks. Whether it’s the car to tempt people away from the likes of Tesla and Audi will depend on how it drives – and how much it costs.
