A Measured Look at Mazda's Electric Revival: The 2026 Mazda 6e (UK)

The return of the Mazda 6 nameplate is a significant event, but its reincarnation as a fully electric vehicle the 2026 Mazda 6e marks a bold new chapter for the brand in the UK. A successor to the beloved internal combustion engine model, the 6e arrives in a competitive market dominated by SUVs and well-established EV rivals like the Tesla Model 3 and BMW i4. Based on early reviews and specifications, the Mazda 6e presents a compelling, if idiosyncratic, proposition, blending Mazda's signature design and driving dynamics with the realities and compromises of modern EV architecture.

Design and Aesthetics: Kodo Philosophy Refined for the Electric Age

Mazda has long been praised for its "Kodo: Soul of Motion" design philosophy, and the 6e is a clear evolution of this concept. The car's sleek, low-slung silhouette and five-door hatchback configuration evoke a sporty fastback style, visually differentiating it from its traditional saloon competitors. Reviewers have lauded its clean, uncluttered lines, piercing headlamps, and other subtle design cues, such as the circular rear lights reminiscent of the classic RX-7. The design is modern without being overly fussy, a testament to Mazda's enduring aesthetic principles.

However, some critics have pointed out that while the car has presence, its proportions can appear slightly unusual, possibly a consequence of adapting a new EV platform. The car’s length of 4,921mm and a relatively low roofline give it a striking road presence, but also contribute to some of its practical limitations. The exterior is enhanced by features like flush-fitting door handles, aero-optimized 19-inch wheels, and an active rear spoiler that deploys at speed, all designed to improve aerodynamics and, by extension, range.

Interior and Technology: A Shift in Focus

Mazda's interiors have traditionally been a benchmark for quality and driver-centric design. The 6e continues this trend with a cabin that reviewers describe as "sumptuous" and "premium," with high-quality materials and a minimalist aesthetic inspired by the Japanese concept of "ma"—the beauty of empty space. Two trim levels, Takumi and Takumi Plus, offer a choice of artificial leather or premium Nappa leather, respectively. A panoramic sunroof is a welcome addition, bathing the interior in natural light and enhancing the sense of space.

Yet, this is where the 6e makes its most significant departure from the Mazda of old. The tactile buttons and dials cherished by loyalists have largely been replaced by a screen-dominated interface. A 14.6-inch central touchscreen, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, and an augmented reality head-up display form the core of the driver interface. While visually slick, several reviews have noted that this move represents a "half-step backwards" in terms of ergonomics. The system is described as having "sub-optimal menu navigation" and being "glitchy," with an on-board voice assistant that can be erratic. This shift towards a more digital-first experience, though common in modern EVs, is a marked change for a brand that has always prioritized intuitive, physical controls.

Performance and Driving Dynamics: A Mixed Bag

The Mazda 6e is built on a dedicated EV platform and features a rear-wheel-drive layout, a decision likely made to preserve the brand's reputation for engaging driving. The car is available with two battery options: a Standard Range with a 68.8 kWh LFP battery and a Long Range with an 80 kWh lithium-ion battery. The Standard Range model offers a WLTP range of up to 300 miles and a 0-62 mph time of 7.6 seconds, with 258 PS. The Long Range model, meanwhile, sacrifices a little power (244 PS) for an increased range of up to 345 miles, resulting in a slightly slower 0-62 mph time of 7.8 seconds.

Performance is described as "alert and punchy" in city driving, but not blistering in the way some rivals are. The 6e's focus appears to be on a composed and refined driving experience rather than outright speed. The steering is praised for its smoothness and directness, and the chassis for its "impressive body control," with the car handling corners cleanly for a vehicle weighing nearly two tonnes.

However, the driving experience is not without its drawbacks. The ride is notably firm, with damping that can "jostle passengers" on broken UK road surfaces. The regenerative braking system is also a point of contention; even in its strongest setting, it doesn't offer a true one-pedal driving experience, and adjusting the settings requires navigating the touchscreen rather than using convenient paddles.

Practicality and Charging: Compromises and Considerations

The 6e's sporty fastback design comes with some practical compromises. While there is decent room for four adults, the cabin doesn't feel as spacious as its exterior dimensions would suggest. The rear headroom is tight for taller passengers, and the 466-litre boot is described as surprisingly shallow and smaller than some rivals. However, the rear seats fold down to expand the luggage space, and there's a 70-litre "frunk" (front trunk) for extra storage.

Charging speeds are another key differentiator between the two models. The Standard Range model benefits from faster DC charging at 200 kW, allowing for a 10-80% top-up in just 22 minutes. The Long Range version, on the other hand, is limited to a slower 90 kW DC charging speed, increasing the recharge time to a rather lengthy 47 minutes. This stark difference in charging performance means the Long Range model, despite its greater range, may be a less practical choice for those who rely on public rapid chargers for long-distance travel.

Conclusion: A Stylish, But Flawed, Contender

The 2026 Mazda 6e is a fascinating and well-intentioned entry into the UK EV market. It successfully translates the brand's renowned Kodo design into an electric platform, resulting in a car that is undeniably attractive. The cabin is a premium and tranquil space, upholding Mazda's reputation for high-quality interiors. On the road, it delivers a composed and engaging driving experience that feels unmistakably "Mazda."

However, the 6e's journey into the electric future is not without its stumbles. The shift to a screen-heavy interface, while a nod to modern trends, sacrifices some of the intuitive ergonomics that made previous Mazdas so appealing. The firm ride may not suit all tastes, and the practical compromises in cabin and boot space, along with the curious disparity in charging speeds between the two battery models, make it a car that demands careful consideration.

Ultimately, the Mazda 6e will appeal to those who value style, a quality interior, and a dynamic driving experience over the absolute fastest performance, largest boot, or quickest charging times. It’s a stylish and capable electric car, but it doesn't entirely escape the quirks of its development, making it a distinctly idiosyncratic choice in a crowded and highly competitive segment.