The pickup trucks have become the global hit and not just that these machines are the best-selling vehicles in the US yet they dominate the sales charts in other markets and continents as well. Buyers outside the US prefer lighter and more maneuverable mid-size models, unlike the full-size-oriented US buyers.
The Mazda BT-50 is another mid-size model available in various styles and equipment grades and powered by a strong diesel engine. It is also distinctively styled and comfortable but still struggles to take a position in the class top among models such as the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton and Nissan Navara.
Mazda updated the BT-50 for the 2018 model year and it is the first Mazda-badged model that got Apple Car Play and Android. The BT-50 broaden also the lineup with the new top-range version for the 2019 model year. The 2020 Mazda BT-50 won’t change much. Mazda said already that model will stay unchanged until the approaching redesign but that will happen beyond 2020 likely for the 2021 model year. Some markets will get a special edition version with more sports details like Thailand.
On the other hand, it’s not the secret that the current Ford Ranger-based BT-50 will be the twin with the third-generation Isuzu D-Max instead which was already spotted testing ahead of the late in the year debut. The new-generation models should improve comfort, refinement and on-road manners. The upgraded infotainment system will also appear with the redesigned versions as well as active safety tech.
2020 Mazda BT-50: Design
Until the arrival of the new-generation version, the 2020 Mazda BT-50 will remain the same aesthetically. The front-end design will again define the signature five-point grille combined with the boomerang headlights.
The profile will get attention with the wedge shape and over-sculpted fender flares while the rear features conventional style.
Some markets will, however, get a sportier styled version. It will appear in the dual-cab guise with sports bar, scuff plate, and stylish decal graphics. There won’t be other notable upgrades on the model.
Interior, equipment:
The 2020 BT-50 won’t change also the form of the interior. The Mazda Ute is comfortable and equipped with modern infotainment features including Apple car Play and Android Auto support. There will again be a 7- and 8-inch center display options.
The model will come with rearview camera in all versions as well as with traction control, trailer sway control, hill launch assist, etc. There won’t be active safety systems such as automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control which should appear in the next-generation BT-50 and twined Isuzu D-Max.
The BT-50 will get fancier wheels and interior in upper-grade versions including also leather upholstery, navigation, Alpine sound system, etc.
2020 Mazda BT-50: Powertrains
The current BT-50 relies on the underpinning and running gear of the successful Ford Ranger and the 2020 Mazda BT-50 will likely be the last version with Ford’s DNA before it adopts the new platform and gear shared with the next-generation Isuzu D-Max.
The 2020 BT-50 will again use Ford’s 3.2-liter five-cylinder turbo diesel engine. This quite efficient engine makes up to 197 hp at 3000 rpm and peak torque of 470 Nm at 1,700-2,500 rpm. The engine will again be in pair with the 6-speed automatic transmission and this is a proven combo. The model will also be available with a 2.2-liter turbodiesel unit which will come in the combination with the 6-speed manual gearbox.
The next Mazda BT-50 will again be able to tow up to 3, 500kg with the cargo bed limit at around 1000kg. There will be two- and four-wheel drive options to chose from. Armed with the dual-range part-time 4WD and rear locking differential, the model will also be free to go off-road.
The next-generation Mazda BT-50 should switch to the new turbocharged engine and gearbox shared with the Isuzu D-Max.
2020 Mazda BT-50: Release, Price
The 2020 Mazda BT-50 will go on sale later in the year. In Australia, the model should again cost from around $28, 900 Australian dollars and go to mid-$50,000 for the top-range version.
The new generation BT-50 should hit the market as the 2021 version while the Isuzu D-Max is already testing and should debut late this year.
