New Mazda BT-50 coming in October
Following its reveal back in June, the local release for the all-new Mazda BT-50 has been confirmed.
Rebuilt from the ground up, Mazda says the all-new BT-50 brings “tough looks, comfort, rugged capability and class-leading safety technology”.
Applying Mazda’s Kodo design language to the utility platform, the new BT-50 is defined at the front end by a three-dimensional signature wing linking the grille and headlights. Sweeping crease lines run from the grille towards the side mirrors, while the lower front bumper subtly integrates the foglamps.
On the lower flanks, a deep crease line runs between the wheelarches, with a subtler line at door handle level that flows from front to rear.
Under the skin, the Mazda BT-50 is twinned with the Isuzu D-Max, which bring changes to a number of areas, particularly the engine.
Replacing the existing 3.2-litre turbodiesel engine, the new 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel four-cylinder engine produces 140kW and 450Nm maximums. While this Isuzu-sourced engine is less powerful than the 147kW/470Nm maximums from the old 3.2 engine, this will be offset by reduced vehicle weight and improved fuel efficiency, although how much better than the 10.0lt/100km (combined) of the current BT-50 has yet to be revealed.
Inside, there’s a “human-centred” design ethos and what Mazda calls pared back aesthetics to provide a roomy and comfortable space for driver and passengers, while a particular focus on ease-of-use and matching driver needs is exemplified by a telescopic steering column.
A “large” touchscreen infotainment system is standard and offers comprehensive functionality, including Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay.
Maximum towing capacity of 3,500kg and payload of 1,000+kg are on a par with the old BT-50.
New – and what Mazda says are best-in-class - safety features are comparable to passenger cars and SUVs, including segment firsts like Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. All will be available as standard equipment across the upcoming BT-50 range.
Specific release dates, model range, full features list and pricing for the new Mazda BT-50 are expected to be announced shortly.
