Mazda NZ eyes EZ-60 electric SUV for local market

Mazda New Zealand is considering bringing the EZ-60 electric SUV to the local market, following the brand’s decision to import the 6E sedan from China.

Paul Sherley, Mazda New Zealand’s product and communications manager, says the mid-size electric SUV is under active review for New Zealand.

“It is something we are considering, it is on our radar,” Sherley says.

He says the SUV format would likely appeal to a broader range of New Zealand buyers compared to the sedan-bodied 6E.

“An SUV is certainly going to attract a wider customer base, it its a bigger part of the market,” Sherley says.

The EZ-60, which will be marketed as the CX-6e in Europe, is a joint venture product developed by Changan Mazda in China. It shares the EPA1 platform with the 6E sedan and is heavily based on the Deepal S07.

The model launched in China in September 2025 and is available in both battery electric vehicle (BEV) and extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) configurations.

Powertrain options and specifications

The EZ-60 offers two powertrain choices. The BEV variants use either a 66.8kWh or 79.97kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery pack, delivering a claimed range of 520–620km. The EREV models combine a 1.5-litre petrol engine acting as a generator with a 31.73kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery and offer 160km of electric-only range.

Both configurations use a 190kW rear-mounted electric motor, with the EREV producing 255hp and the BEV 235hp.

The SUV measures 4850mm in length with a 2902mm wheelbase, positioning it in the mid-size crossover segment. Boot space is rated at 350 litres, expanding to 2036 litres with rear seats folded, while BEV models include a 126-litre front storage compartment.

The model features Mazda’s Kodo design language and includes advanced driver assistance systems with five radars, five cameras, and 12 ultrasonic sensors enabling Level 2 autonomous driving features.

No timeline has been confirmed for any potential New Zealand launch.