Mazda is bringing this $20,000 Chinese EV overseas, but prices will be much higher

The electric Mazda 6 predecessor is headed for Europe this summer. Mazda’s EV starts at around $20,000 in China, but prices are expected to be significantly higher in Europe. Here’s what we know about the Chinese-made EV so far.

When will Mazda launch its $20,000 EV overseas?

Mazda unveiled the EZ-6 at the Beijing Auto Show alongside the Arata SUV last April. The EZ-6 is the all-electric predecessor to the Mazda 6 sedan.

Mazda’s Chinese joint venture, Changan Mazda, has been selling the EZ-6 in China since October. The electric sedan, which starts at just 139,800 yuan, or around $19,200, is already off to a hot sales start.

With nearly 2,500 models sold in November, its first sales month, Changan Mazda said the EZ-6 was among the top three mid-size new energy vehicle (NEV) sedans of joint ventures sold in China. According to Nikkei, Mazda will export the $20,000 EV to Europe starting this summer.

Based on Changan Auto’s hybrid platform, the EX-6 is available in EV and extended-range configurations in China. The all-electric version has a CLTC range of up to 600 km (372 miles).

The electric Mazda EZ-6 is 4,921 mm long, 1,890 mm wide, and 1,485 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,895 mm, or about the size of a Tesla Model 3 (4,720 mm long, 1,922 mm wide, and 1,441 mm tall with a 2,875 mm wheelbase).

Inside, the EZ-6 has a modern cabin setup with 14.6″ infotainment and 10.1″ driver display screens. It also includes premium features like a 50″ AR head-up display and zero-gravity reclining seats.

The imported model will feature improved stability and control for high-speed driving on European roads. Mazda will showcase the updated EZ-6 at the Brussels Motor Show, which kicks off on Friday.

Like many automakers, Mazda is looking to meet the EU’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandates and avoid heavy fines. However, after the EU increased tariffs on Chinese EV imports to as much as 45.3%, Mazda will still have to pay the price.

China’s SAIC was hit the hardest with an extra 35.3% duty, while Geely (18.8%) and BYD (17%) were at the lower end. Other cooperating companies are subject to a 20.7% tariff, while non-cooperating automakers will have a duty of 35.3%.

Earlier this week, we learned Mazda will build a new module battery plant in Japan to supply its first dedicated EV. Although no details were revealed about the dedicated EV, Mazda said it will be powered by a new electric vehicle platform. The company aims to launch the new platform in 2027. Stay tuned for more.