Mazda 6e Electric Sedan Touches Down in Australia Ahead of Likely 2026 Launch

Mazda’s next all-electric model has quietly arrived in Australia. The Mazda 6e, a sleek electric sedan developed with Chinese partner Changan, has been spotted testing in Melbourne in right-hand drive – a strong signal that local showrooms could see it as early as 2026.

This marks the possible return of the much-loved Mazda 6 nameplate, which was discontinued earlier this year due to new safety rules.

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A New Direction for Mazda in Australia

The camouflaged prototype, wearing Victorian plates, was unmistakable with its coupe-inspired silhouette, slim headlights, and fastback-style tailgate. Its design recalls earlier generations of the Mazda 6, but with a sharper, more aerodynamic look.

Mazda Australia has confirmed it is studying the case for a local launch. “We’re building a business case and evaluating whether that’s right for us,” managing director Vinesh Bhindi told media earlier this year. A decision is expected before the end of 2025.

If approved, the 6e would become Mazda Australia’s first Chinese-sourced model, built in Nanjing at a joint venture plant with Changan.

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Powertrain, Range and Charging

Overseas models of the Mazda 6e offer buyers two battery options, paired with a single rear-mounted electric motor.

While the smaller pack supports faster charging speeds, the larger battery delivers more driving distance between charges.

The 6e rides on the same platform as the Deepal S07 SUV, which recently launched in Australia from $53,900 before on-road costs. That suggests Mazda could price the 6e competitively within the mid-size EV sedan market.

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Beyond the Sedan: Mazda’s EV Roadmap

The 6e won’t stand alone. In China, a high-riding SUV version known as the EZ-60 is already on sale and expected to be rebadged as the Mazda CX-6e for global markets. If that happens, Mazda Australia could add it to the lineup alongside the sedan.

Further ahead, Mazda is also developing its own in-house global EV architecture, with a dedicated new model due around 2027. For now, the 6e provides a bridge – giving Mazda a mainstream electric contender in the years before its homegrown technology arrives.

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5 Key Takeaways

• Mazda 6e spotted in Melbourne in right-hand drive, signalling strong potential for an Australian launch in 2026.
• Revives the Mazda 6 badge, axed earlier this year due to new safety rules.
• Two battery choices overseas: 68.8kWh (475km range) and 80kWh (552km range).
• First Chinese-built Mazda likely to be sold in Australia, developed with Changan.
• Mazda’s EV future includes a possible CX-6e SUV and a dedicated global EV platform due by 2027.