Introduction Mazda CX-6e: E-SUV as a lifeline
Mazda needs to catch up globally in electromobility. The new E-SUV CX-6e is also intended to contribute to this. Technically, it does not rank among the top.
(Image: Mazda)
At the small trade fair in Brussels, Mazda is making another attempt to finally convince with electric cars. The 6e serves as the basis, but in detail, the E-SUV CX-6e already overshadows the sedan presented just last year. This should come as no surprise, as Mazda has a lot of catching up to do, and the 6e, despite its good qualities, did not leave a completely convincing impression. Nevertheless, the brand remains technically unconventional in the powertrain sector.
Poor space utilization
The CX-6 is slightly shorter than the sedan at 4.85 m. The E-SUV measures 2.9 m between the axles, so there should be plenty of space in the interior. The trunk measures 468 liters, which does not speak well for space utilization. For comparison: a Skoda Enyaq (Test) is about 20 cm shorter and offers over 100 liters more here. On the other hand, the Mazda has a storage compartment under the front hood, which at 83 liters is more than just a place for a charging cable.
Mazda CX-6e innen (7 Bilder)
Mazda
)Emphasis on “empty space between objects”
A large, non-opening glass roof is always standard. Unlike in the sedan, a roller blind for shading is apparently already included in the basic equipment. Mazda writes that the interior design is inspired by the Japanese philosophy of "ma," which emphasizes the empty space between objects. This may sound almost frighteningly formulated to some at first, but at least the brand has earned a good reputation in recent years for its choice of materials and workmanship. The design itself differs significantly from the sedan. Instead of a combination instrument, Mazda crafts a huge screen from the center to the passenger side in the SUV.
Gesture control
Such space in principle opens up many possibilities; how skillfully they have been used must be shown by a test. The sedan still left plenty of room for improvement in this regard. New is a gesture control with fixed assignments. With a fist, for example, you ask the navigation system to calculate the route to work. Perhaps I'm just lucky with my employer, but I wouldn't have thought of that connection. A heart gesture adds the currently playing song to a user's playlist. In case anyone asks: the windshield wiper gesture does not activate them.
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Nevertheless, this still seems a bit more playful than the idea of replacing exterior mirrors with cameras and screens. Several manufacturers have already attempted this, but I haven't found it completely convincing in any car so far. The more expensive of the two equipment lines includes a digital interior mirror: a display replaces the mirror, and the image comes from a camera in the rear window. Those who regularly load their car to the roof might find this appealing.
Mazda CX-6e innen (7 Bilder)
Mazda
)78 kWh and 190 kW
Mazda installs two somewhat strangely configured powertrains in the sedan; in the E-SUV, this seems to be put together more sensibly within this platform. There is only one version, at least for now. The E-motor, minimally stronger at 190 kW, is combined with the larger battery. Its weight is 550 kg, and the gross energy content is 78 kWh. Mazda has not yet revealed how much of this can actually be used in the SUV. This also only allows for an approximate description of the average charging power. The CX-6e charges from ten to 80 percent in 24 minutes, making it considerably faster than the sedan with the large battery. The maximum charging power is said to be 195 kW. Based on the gross energy content, nearly 55 kWh would be recharged in 24 minutes at an average of nearly 136 kW. That would not be a top value, but it would be quite respectable. The average net charging power plus charging losses will be slightly lower.
No all-wheel drive
Mazda's decision to offer the SUV only with rear-wheel drive, at least for now, is unconventional. Of course, 190 kW and 290 Nm are sufficient for more than just decent performance, although an arms race continues in the world of electromobility. Mazda states 7.9 seconds for the sprint to 100 km/h and a top speed of 185 km/h. Consumption in WLTP is said to be between 18.9 and 19.4 kWh. Depending on the tires, the maximum range in the cycle is 468 to 484 km.
(Image: Mazda)
Fairly priced
Mazda therefore refrains from excelling with technical values. On the other hand, the brand offers a competitive package, as 49,990 euros is a friendly offer in this class, given the extensive equipment even in the base "Takumi" model. In addition, Mazda provides a six-year warranty (up to 150,000 km) at no extra cost, a promise of durability for which some competitors already charge a four-figure surcharge. The maintenance interval of 20,000 km or 12 months, however, seems a bit too business-minded. Perhaps the responsible parties will find a way to extend it to 30,000 km/24 months.
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