Mazda is targeting the Tesla Model Y with its new EZ-60 SUV

The electric vehicle market is rapidly evolving, with manufacturers constantly striving to offer sleek, efficient, and innovative options for consumers. Recently, Mazda lifted the veil on its latest offering, the Mazda EZ-60, in China, positioning it as a formidable rival to the popular Tesla Model Y. As the automotive industry accelerates towards electric mobility, the EZ-60 could herald a new chapter for Mazda, particularly in the UK market.

The Mazda EZ-60 emerges as an electric counterpart to the existing CX-60, and its development has been greatly influenced by Mazda’s collaboration with Chinese automobile giant Changan. This partnership is not merely a business transaction; it’s a strategic move to leverage Changan’s advanced electric vehicle technologies. Notably, the EZ-60 shares its underpinnings with the Changan Deepal S07, which is also set to make waves in the UK later this year as a direct competitor to Tesla’s offering.

While Mazda has not yet disclosed the full technical specifications of the EZ-60, details gleaned from its Changan counterpart suggest promising performance. The Deepal S07 features an 80kWh battery powering a rear-mounted motor with an output of 214bhp. This combination allows a commendable range of 295 miles, with the added convenience of charging at 93kW. This means busy drivers can enjoy a significant recharge (from 30% to 80%) in just 35 minutes.

In comparison, the closely related Mazda EZ-6, which is anticipated to hit UK showrooms early next year as the Mazda 6e, boasts a more robust 254bhp motor alongside a similar battery capacity, extending its range to an impressive 345 miles between charges. As consumers become increasingly conscious of range anxiety, these specifications could provide a competitive edge.

Visually, the EZ-60 adopts the new design language introduced with the Mazda 6e, characterized by sleek, modern aesthetics. The exterior design features thin LED daytime-running lights positioned high on the front fascia, complemented by smaller main-beam headlights. However, the EZ-60 stands out with its more angular profile, a prominent chin spoiler on the front bumper, and a pronounced shoulder line that exudes a dynamic and aggressive stance.

Although the interior details remain under wraps until the upcoming Shanghai Motor Show, it’s anticipated to draw heavily from the 6e’s design philosophy. Expect a spacious cabin featuring a substantial centrally mounted infotainment touchscreen, along with bucket-style seats that embody both comfort and sportiness.

Mazda has not yet made an official announcement regarding the UK launch of the EZ-60, but its introduction could significantly bolster the brand’s electric vehicle sales. In a rapidly growing segment where SUVs dominate consumer preference, entering the compact electric SUV space could prove to be a game-changer for Mazda.

Earlier this year, Mazda confirmed its ambitions to introduce the 6e to the UK market, indicating a strong commitment to electric mobility. Furthermore, there are plans for an independent electric SUV model designed in collaboration with Panasonic—the batteries for which are set to be developed in-house. This upcoming model is expected to launch around the same time as the combustion-engine Mazda CX-5, signaling Mazda’s intention to diversify its offerings in the E.V. segment.