Mazda is gearing up to introduce a pair of new models featuring electric or range-extender powertrains, with one slated to replace the iconic Mazda 6 sedan. While the upcoming Mazda 6 successor is set to embrace electric power, there’s a unique twist – it will be developed in China utilizing a Chinese platform.
According to reports from Autohome, Mazda has filed a trademark for the name EZ-6 in China, likely earmarked for a vehicle teased by the Changan Mazda joint venture last year. The new model could make its debut at the upcoming Beijing Motor Show in April.
Additionally, Mazda has trademarked the nameplate EZ-60, hinting at a potential SUV variant. The first model, codenamed J90A, is scheduled for launch in 2024, followed by the second model, codenamed J90K, in 2025. Both models will offer a choice between electric and range-extender powertrains.
Furthermore, Changan Mazda plans to introduce two additional products in 2026, currently referred to as NEV SUV and NEV CAR, as part of its electrification strategy.
During a media presentation, Changan Mazda expressed its intention to promote the export of electrified models manufactured in China while exploring opportunities for collaboration with other automakers worldwide.
The joint venture aims to produce 550,000 electric vehicles (EVs) in China. Changan Mazda is expected to utilize Changan’s EPA1 platform, designed to support hybrid and electric powertrains, instead of Mazda’s upcoming SkyActiv Scalable EV Architecture or SkyActiv Multi-Solution Scalable Architecture.
This platform is currently utilized for the SL03 liftback and S7 SUV under Changan’s Deepal brand, which plans to produce vehicles in right-hand drive for markets such as Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK. The introduction of the EZ-6 would provide Changan Mazda with a viable replacement for the locally produced Mazda 6 sedan.
As the current model faces discontinuation after nearly 12 years in production, speculation about a new-generation model on the rear/all-wheel drive Large Architecture has yet to materialize, leaving the existing Mazda 6 to continue its legacy with periodic updates.
