Mazda EZ-60 Captures the Chinese Market's Attention
Mazda's new EZ-60 midsize SUV has sparked strong early interest in China, securing 10,060 pre-orders within 48 hours of its debut at the Shanghai Auto Show. These pre-orders come through a low-commitment deposit model, where buyers placed a symbolic 10 yuan ($1.40 USD) deposit that builds daily credit applicable to a future purchase under specific conditions. While not yet binding, the rush of interest hints at strong market potential.
Developed in collaboration with Changan, the EZ-60 shares its EPA platform with Changan's Deepal S07 and is offered in two electrified versions. So far, only the specifications for the range-extended model have been detailed. It combines a 72 kW, 1.5-liter gasoline engine—used exclusively as a generator—with a 190 kW (255 hp) electric motor and a 31.73 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery, offering up to 160 km of electric-only driving. Details on the full battery-electric version remain limited, but initial figures suggest competitive performance.
Mazda's approach inside the EZ-60 embraces a digital-first philosophy. The centerpiece is a massive 26.45-inch 5K ultra-wide display that merges the instrument cluster, infotainment, and climate controls into one sleek interface. Physical buttons have been largely replaced with touch and voice commands, while rear passengers get their own touchscreens for managing comfort and media options. An optional 23-speaker Dolby Atmos 7.1.4 sound system adds a premium audio experience.
Interior flexibility was a clear priority. The EZ-60 offers 350 liters of standard cargo space, expandable to a massive 2,036 liters when the rear seats are folded down. The fully electric version adds a 126-liter front trunk, while various small compartments throughout the cabin boost everyday practicality.
On the outside, the EZ-60 stretches 4,850 mm long, 1,935 mm wide, and 1,620 mm tall, with a 2,902 mm wheelbase. The styling features sleek LED daytime running lights, a smooth, closed-off front grille, and a sharply angled rear window capped by a full-width taillight strip for a modern, aerodynamic look.
Safety and technology are also a strong focus. The SUV comes standard with nine airbags and an L2-level driver assistance suite, supported by five high-definition cameras, five millimeter-wave radars, and twelve ultrasonic sensors. Battery safety, developed in partnership with CATL and CALB, includes eight layers of protection and is designed to exceed China's 2026 regulatory benchmarks.
According to Changan Mazda, the EZ-60 is on track for an official market launch in August. With two additional co-developed EVs in the pipeline, this strong early reception could mark an important comeback for Mazda in China's fiercely competitive electric vehicle market. Whether this initial momentum can be sustained through full-scale production remains to be seen — but all signs so far are promising.
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