Mazda has held an online presentation dedicated to the third generation of its BT-50 pickup. The truck has switched from using the Ford Ranger platform to being based on the latest Isuzu D-Max.
This extended as far as the engines: the base spec now ships with the 3.0-liter Isuzu turbo diesel rated at 190 hp (142 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque. Customers get to choose between six-speed manual and automatic for transmission, as well as between RWD and AWD. Other spec may appear later, but if any do, they will likely be weaker in terms of performance and more affordable.
The new Mazda BT-50 measures 5,280 mm (17.32 ft.) long, 1,870 mm (6.14 ft.) wide and 1,790 mm (5.87 ft.) tall with 3,125 mm (10.25 ft.) between the axles. In other words, it is almost identical to the D-Max as far as the dimensions. The typical Mazda front is the one thing that sets it apart.
The interior is also typical Isuzu, including the center console, the infotainment system with a 9” display, the HVAC and the dashboard. The front panel and the steering wheel are original designs, however.
Sales in Australia will launch in the second half of 2020, with the production and assembly taking place at the same Thailand-based factory where the Isuzu D-Max is currently produced.