Mazda is setting its sights on the Tesla Model Y with an all-new electric crossover, the EZ-60, crafted for international markets—but notably not destined for the United States. As part of its strategy to expand in the EV segment, Mazda is leaning heavily on its partnership with Chinese state-owned automaker Changan. Though the EZ-60 will be built in China, it’s aimed at buyers beyond its borders.
This upcoming model follows last year’s debut of the EZ-6 sedan and has just made its digital premiere on Weibo. The EZ-60 shares the stage with its predecessor, forming the second wave of Mazda’s electric ambitions under the long-running 50:50 joint venture with Changan. That same collaboration previously birthed the 6e for Europe, which is set to launch globally as the CX-6e.
Design-wise, the EZ-60 takes cues from the Mazda Arata concept, reimagined here as a more practical production SUV. With hopes of faring better than the underperforming MX-30, Mazda is betting on the EZ-60’s dynamic styling and engineering. One standout detail: flying buttresses—an unexpected design flourish in this segment. Also, worth noting is the use of digital side cameras in place of mirrors, a technology that’s been legally permitted on Chinese production vehicles for a couple of years now.
As a direct rival to the Model Y, the EZ-60 is expected to come in two versions: a fully electric model and a long-range hybrid variant pairing an EV system with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine. However, it’s unclear if this hybrid option will make its way to Europe. The EZ-6 sedan, currently positioned against the Tesla Model 3, is only available as an EV.
Mazda hasn’t pulled the curtain back on the EZ-60’s cabin just yet, choosing to save that reveal for the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show later this month. Still, expectations are that it will closely mirror the EZ-6’s interior, featuring a large touchscreen interface and minimal use of traditional buttons. The sedan’s upscale materials and refined layout suggest the EZ-60 will maintain the same premium aesthetic.
Looking ahead, Mazda and Changan may introduce two more models under their joint venture, potentially launching them between 2028 and 2030. Parallel to that, Mazda is developing its own dedicated electric vehicle platform—internally known as the “Zoom-Zoom” EV base. The first standalone model is due in 2027, with follow-up models scheduled to arrive before the decade is out.
