Mazda CX-6e gains roof LiDAR and advanced driver aid

Mazda has unveiled an upgraded CX-6e SUV in China equipped with a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor and expanded autonomous-driving features. The addition enables a navigation-on-autopilot function that Mazda says works on both highways and urban routes, and the company positions the revised CX-6e as its second new-energy model for the Chinese market, built on the EPA1 platform co-developed with Changan.

LiDAR hardware and driver-assist capabilities

The new CX-6e’s driver-assist package is described by Mazda as a Level 2-plus system that covers more than 200 driving scenarios. The hardware suite pairs the rooftop LiDAR with three millimeter-wave radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors and 11 cameras. Mazda says this configuration allows the car to handle tasks such as entering and exiting highways, automated overtaking and lane changes, negotiating intersections and remote automated parking without driver intervention. According to Mazda, the LiDAR system is active at speeds from 0 to 130 km/h on highways and 0 to 80 km/h in urban conditions.

LiDAR-equipped CX-6e trims start at 145,900 CNY (about $21,700) in China and are offered in both all-electric and plug-in range-extender formats.

Powertrains, range and interior features

Mazda offers the LiDAR-equipped CX-6e in two energy configurations. The all-electric model uses a 77.94 kWh LFP battery and Mazda cites a CLTC range of between 585 and 600 km. A rear-mounted electric motor is rated at 255 hp, and Mazda specifies 3C fast-charging capability that can bring the battery from 30 to 80 percent in around 15 minutes. The plug-in range-extender (EREV) version pairs a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine with a 31.73 kWh battery, which Mazda states delivers roughly 200 km of electric-only driving.

On pricing, Mazda lists LiDAR-equipped CX-6e versions from 145,900 CNY (about $21,700) in China. A less expensive all-electric variant without LiDAR is priced at 139,900 CNY (about $20,800). Mazda highlights the competitive pricing in China, noting that a related price in the UK market is about $57,000, making the Chinese entry roughly a third of that figure.

The CX-6e’s cabin includes a 26.45-inch 5K central display and a 50-inch head-up display, underscoring the model’s emphasis on digital interfaces alongside its upgraded driver-assist hardware.