If the CX-6e does use the Scalable SkyActiv platform, powertrain and battery information is limited at best. But we’d assume by bringing the tech in-house, Mazda would aim to better the 6e saloon’s numbers.

We expect at least two battery sizes, with the options probably comprising a standard and Long Range model. Assuming batteries of around 75kWh and 90kWh or more, the larger of the two should exceed 300 miles of range, despite the CX-6e’s bulkier SUV body.

We’d also expect Mazda to look at improving the 6e’s charge rates – especially on the Long Range car. Bizarrely, the bigger-battery 6e has a significantly slower peak charging speed than the base model; the company will need to target rates of at least 180kW to keep the CX-6e competitive among its peers.

Mazda will be keen to inject some of its ‘jinba ittai’ or ‘horse and rider as one’ philosophy into the CX-6e. 
The phrase was first coined during the development of the MX-5 in the eighties, and the concept runs through every Mazda to this day. We can therefore expect a strong focus on driveability and handling, plus ride comfort and ergonomics. At the very least, the CX-6e should challenge the likes of the BMW iX1 for driver appeal.

Bosses said the first car on the new Scalable SkyActiv platform is due in 2027 – suggesting the SUV should arrive in UK showrooms shortly after the saloon. According to the current, Government-set ZEV mandate, 38 per cent of cars sold in the UK in 2027 must be electric, rising to 80 per cent in 2030 – so this EV will be of utmost importance to Mazda.

Given the 6e’s mooted price of £40,000, it looks like the CX-6e will hit the Model Y where it hurts, possibly starting from less than £45,000.

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