Mazda 6e.

Mazda has just trademarked the name “6e” for a new model in Europe. As well as a new logo for it.

This could mean a new Mazda 6 sedan as an EV is coming up. Mazda has already mentioned a new electric crossover is coming to the US next year. Although rumors are already indicated the new sedan would focus on the US market. An inexpensive way for Mazda to get an electrified sedan over here is to base a new model on the RWD-based platform used by the CX-70 and CX-90. Most people thought this would happen when they announced work on the new platform a few years ago.

Later, Mazda killed the idea of a new sedan based on the new platform. Now it could actually happen? If so, the “e” could also just mean a PHEV model, similar to what Mazda offers in the CX-70 and CX-90 in the US. Which wouldn’t be as forward-thinking as an EV, but would still have an advantage over any sedan offered in North America. Unless someone else decides to offer a PHEV sedan.

This could be sooner than later since a PHEV Accord is already on sale in China. And GM already announced they are coming up with a few new PHEV models for the US like the Chevrolet Equinox PHEV. We know a next-generation Chevrolet Malibu is coming as well and I can already imagine a PHEV Malibu coming soon.

By then, a new Mazda 6 might again be lost in the shuffle, again. Mazda needs to stand out to stay alive. I’m afraid the new CX-90 and CX-70 might not be enough. And a new PHEV sedan really needs to have a stunning design to be noticed. Something the new CX-70/90 has failed at.