POSTED ON 20/10/2026

Mazda CX-6e First Drive

What the Press have to say

The All-New, All-Electric Mazda CX-6e has taken to Australian roads for the first time, with leading Australian automotive media experiencing the mid-size electric SUV on an engaging drive from Melbourne to the Mornington Peninsula.

Sampling the Mazda CX-6e in a variety of everyday driving conditions, from Melbourne’s urban streets to the open roads and coastal surrounds of the Mornington Peninsula, the vehicle’s driving performance, comfort and refinement shone through.

 

Transcript

Mazda CX-6e Launch - What The Media Have To Say: https://youtu.be/deO88F-y12E

Shana Zlotin, Drive Thru Media: "Design-wise, I reckon this car looks the most like a concept car of any production car I've ever seen. It is so sleek and modern. That's the Kodo design language they've used for this vehicle."

John Law, Chasing Cars: "It is a really handsome car with some great details. For a start, there's this lighting signature that runs all the way down here."

Shana Zlotin, Drive Thru Media: "You get digital rear-view mirrors, with cameras mounted on the sides of the car that project what's happening in your blind spot."

John Law, Chasing Cars: "The 21-inch alloy wheels on the Azami look really, really good."

Shana Zlotin, Drive Thru Media: "I loved it before, and I still love it: the Mazda lettering that runs alongside the car."

John Law, Chasing Cars: "It also comes in a new colour. This is called Nightfall Violet, and I love it."

Andrew Chesterton, Carsguide: "I have to say, they've made a very attractive electric SUV here.Mazda's worked its magic in the interior, too. It all feels suitably plush, and there's a nice mix of materials."

Ged Bulmer, RACQ: "There's really quite generous accommodation back here in the rear seat."

John Law, Chasing Cars: "The warm beige is a really lovely addition to this car. It brings some slightly elevated, very warm-feeling materials, along with a good view out and a really, really impressive back seat."

Shana Zlotin, Drive Thru Media: "It just feels a lot like a Mazda. It's really serene in here. It's peaceful to drive, and it's really comfy. These seats are bonkers comfy, actually."

Alex Dalrymple, 4 Wheels and a Seat: "Road noise in the cabin is absolutely minimal. There's really very little noise coming from the outside world at all. They've done a terrific job on the tune."

Andrew Chesterton, Carsguide: "If you're an enthusiastic driver, I think you'll really enjoy the Mazda CX-6e."

Ged Bulmer, RACQ: "It's nicely balanced. It's a car that works with you, and it's not overly intrusive with the advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Overall, I think Mazda's done a pretty good job. Mazda is well positioned with this car. They've priced it well, it's got good range, and it's got decent performance."

Shana Zlotin, Drive Thru Media: "Mazda has built a really impressive EV here. I think it's an incredibly beautiful car to look at, probably one of the most stunning."

 

Media also praised the Mazda CX-6e’s contemporary, distinctive Kodo design and thoughtfully crafted interior, alongside the Jinba Ittai driving dynamics that remain essential to the Mazda driving experience.

Another point of praise was the importance of Mazda’s 150-strong dealer network, and the support and reassurance this gives owners across the country.  

What Do Australian media Say About the Mazda CX-6e?

"If you want the familiarity of a badge that you know is going to be in Australia for a long time and has a big dealer network, this is a really interesting car to consider, and I really like this car in that context" - Drive

"...all in this effort to make it feel a little bit more like a Mazda. And I have to say, they've largely succeeded. It doesn't drive like you'd expect a typical Chinese EV to drive. It feels a little bit more engaged from behind the wheel" - CarsGuide

"Even when left in its default settings, the 23-speaker arrangement delivers a better audio experience than just about any SUV at this price point. It's not hard to figure out why – the equivalent Model Y, 7X and Sealion 7 all have 12 speakers or fewer" - CarExpert 

 

Mazda CX-6e parked outside of Mazda head office

 

"The thing I like about it is the progressive nature to the way that it accelerates. It is quick, no doubt, but it has this nice level of progressive power building" - The Right Car?

"Based on equipment levels, sharp pricing, reasonable EV credentials and that daring styling, the CX-6e is sure to intrigue potential buyers. Compared to a new brand-name, too, you have Mazda’s long history in Australia for peace of mind" - Chasing Cars

"So, it’s big inside, drives convincingly and is priced pretty well, too. You could damn with faint praise by saying the CX-6e is a great first effort at an EV SUV by Mazda. But it’s actually better than that. Suggesting that even if the Chinese joint-venture status has imposed its limitations (a lack of real buttons, for instance) the Mazda-ness has managed to shine through where it counts" - WhichCar?

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