After 9 years, Mazda has revealed the 3rd generation BT-50 ute, scheduled to go on sale starting with the Australian market later this year. For the new generation, the platform and the powertrain comes from Isuzu. In other words, the new BT-50 is a Mazda-ized version of the 3rd generation Isuzu D-Max.
While the Isuzu D-Max looks aggressive and angry, the BT-50 looks simple and elegant with Mazda’s Kodo design language. Even the taillight design looks fairly different compared with the D-Max’s and I think the designers have done a good job in bringing enough visual differentiation between the two trucks. The exterior color palette includes the new GunBlue Mica and Concreate Grey Mica.
The Mazda design language continues through to the BT-50’s interior. Soft touch materials have been used on the dashboard and door pads to add a touch of premium-ness. Feature list includes Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity.
Safety and driver assistance systems include Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane-Keep Assist System, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
As mentioned, the powertrain too comes from Isuzu. Which is, of course, a 3.0-litre (2,999 cc) 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, producing the same 140 kW (190 hp) at 3,600 rpm and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque between 1,600-2,600 rpm. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic. The 3.0L replaces the Ford-sourced 200 hp 3.2L motor.
The BT-50 also boasts a locking rear diff, 4×4 high and 4×4 low modes and a wading depth of 800 mm. In addition, Mazda claims a max payload capacity of 1,065 kg (2,348 lbs) and max towing capacity of 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs).
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