Test of the Mazda 6e: An Electric Sedan Balancing Efficiency and Technical Challenges

After the success of its thermal generations, Mazda is strategically pivoting with the Mazda 6e, a fully electric sedan developed in collaboration with Chinese manufacturer Changan. While the Japanese brand has always emphasized its technical uniqueness, this new model, measuring 4.92 meters in length, surprises with its technological choices, particularly in energy management. Offered with two battery variants, the 68.8 kWh version (LFP cells) seems most relevant compared to the 'Long Range' version of 80 kWh, which suffers from a limited charging power of only 90 kW.

On the road, the Mazda 6e excels with remarkable efficiency. In real-world tests, the onboard computer recorded an average consumption of 14.1 kWh/100 km, suggesting a real-world range approaching 500 kilometers. Even on the highway in cool weather, the sedan maintains a modest consumption between 16 and 18 kWh/100 km, ensuring nearly 400 kilometers of range between charges. With its 190 kW propulsion, the vehicle provides solid acceleration and typical comfort of a grand tourer, without aiming for pure sportiness.

However, the situation worsens in terms of fast charging. While Mazda claims a charge from 10 to 80% in 27 minutes, this performance proves difficult to replicate consistently. The battery preheating system, primarily designed to optimize driving performance in cold conditions rather than prepare for charging, does not guarantee an ideal temperature upon arrival at charging stations. Without automatic preconditioning linked to navigation, charging speed becomes a lottery, varying significantly based on recent driving history.

Despite these software shortcomings, the Mazda 6e impresses with its value for money. Starting at €44,900 in the 'Takumi' trim, it offers abundant equipment including a panoramic roof, a 14-speaker Sony sound system, and a modern technological interface. The interior, although marked by some shiny plastics, gives an impression of premium quality often perceived as exceeding its actual price by passengers. Spacious and comfortable for four adults, this sedan represents an elegant and economical alternative to industry benchmarks, provided one accepts a degree of unpredictability during long trips requiring frequent stops at fast chargers.