Mazda EZ-60 vs Tesla Model Y – The EV Rival No One Expected

Mazda is taking big steps to expand its electric lineup, and it is doing it with help from its Chinese partner, Changan. After debuting the EZ-6 sedan last year, Mazda is now unveiling its sport utility vehicle counterpart, the EZ-60, through China’s Weibo platform. Just like before, this new model is the result of a joint venture between Mazda and Changan, which has been going strong for over 10 years. The EZ-60 is expected to be marketed outside China as the CX-6e.

Visually, the EZ-60 draws inspiration from the Arata concept. Mazda is clearly aiming to turn heads with this design, especially since their earlier electric model, the MX-30, did not perform well in terms of sales. One standout detail is the use of flying buttresses at the rear—something rarely seen in this body style. Also worth noting is the use of side cameras instead of traditional mirrors, which have been legal in Chinese production vehicles for about 2 years.

The EZ-60 is believed to be built on the same platform as the Deepal S07, a product of Changan’s electric sub-brand. This means we are likely looking at both a fully electric version and a range-extended variant that uses a 1.5-liter gasoline engine as a backup power source. However, it is not yet confirmed whether the range-extending model will be offered in Europe. Currently, the EZ-6 sedan is only available as a fully electric vehicle.

Mazda is keeping the interior of the EZ-60 under wraps until the Auto Shanghai 2025 show later this month. But it is safe to expect a similar setup to the EZ-6, including a large center display and minimal physical buttons. The materials used will likely aim for a more premium feel to live up to Mazda’s standards.

Mazda is also considering two more models under its joint venture with Changan, which could arrive between 2028 and 2030. Meanwhile, the company is developing its own in-house platform for electric vehicles, with the first car scheduled for release in 2027.