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By Bruce Newton
The foundation stone for Mazda’s Zoom-Zoom revival more than 20 years ago has been replaced.
The Mazda6 sedan has evolved into a fourth-generation model with a new name, the EZ-6, and a switch from its traditional front- to a rear-wheel drive configuration that signals a radical change in philosophy for the mainstay of the Japanese car maker.
The EZ-6 was revealed at the Beijing Auto Show in April and co-developed by Mazda’s Chinese joint-venture partner, Chongqing Changan. It is due to go into production later this year for the Chinese market where it will be offered with the choice of plug-in hybrid and battery-electric powertrains.
But there are question marks about whether it will be built in right-hand drive for markets outside of China, including Australia.
The EV version of the all-new mid-sizer has an expected driving range of approximately 600km, while the PHEV is anticipated to achieve over 1000km of driving range on a full charge and a single tank of fuel.
The design language of the EZ-6 is an evolution of Mazda’s KODO Soul of Motion philosophy. And the car is physically larger than the current model, measuring 4921mm long, 1890mm wide and 1485mm high, making it longer, wider and taller than the current Mazda6 (4800mm/1887mm/1480mm).
Mazda has stressed how important driving quality has been in the development of the EZ-6 and claims the switch to a rear-drive layout has helped deliver a 50:50 weight distribution in the EV version.
While it would be logical to suggest the EZ-6 will share its platform and PHEV powertrains with models such as the CX-60, which is based on Mazda’s latest Large Product Group architecture, the EZ-6 has a more conventional strut front suspension configuration where the LPG models have a double-wishbone front set-up.
The launch media statement said the EZ-6 also employs advanced electric vehicle technology and smart technology supplied by Changan Automobile.
Included in that is an intelligent parking technology that allows the EZ-6 to be controlled by voice, even when the driver is outside the vehicle.
Smart cabin technology can also be operated in various ways including voice, touch and gesture control.
“We are delighted to introduce the all-new new-energy vehicle (NEV) developed in alliance with Mazda and Changan Automobile,” said Mazda president and CEO, Masahiro Moro.
“The Mazda EZ-6 is the latest electrified vehicle that combines Mazda's strengths with Changan Automobile’s electrified technology.
“Going forward, Mazda will continue to work with Changan Automobile to turn Mazda’s China business around by introducing its unique products that meet the needs of Chinese customers who prefer advanced vehicles.”
The appearance of the EZ-6 rebuts rumours that Mazda would kill of the 6 due to declining interest in sedans and wagons amid the rising popularity of SUVs.
The original Mazda6 launched in Australia in 2002 and the current third generation in 2012, followed by a significant update in 2018.
The current Mazda6 sedan and wagon is offered for sale in Australia with naturally aspirated and turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engines. Stay tuned for more updates on whether the EZ-6 will be offered in Australia in the future.
Disclaimer: Images supplied by Mazda Australia.
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