2020 Mazda BT-50 revealed - When will it come to Malaysia?

KUALA LUMPUR: Initially in 2006, Mazda launched the first-generation BT-50 using the underpinnings of the Ford Ranger. After five years, the automaker came up with its second-generation, and today it has officially unveiled its third-generation, which began teasing a week ago. The live streaming event was hosted today by Mazda Australia.

Most significantly, the all-new BT-50 dopped the Ford hardware to ride on the Isuzu D-Max platform. Along with this, the pick-up truck has finally joined the rest of its stablemates after nine years with the Kodo-design language flowing through all body panels and lines on the vehicle.

Upfront, the new Mazda BT-50 features a striking chrome grille and familiar Mazda headlamps, much similar to CX-5. The front fascia design is undoubtedly unique amongst other pick-up trucks currently on sale, while the rest of the bodywork is quite identical to those. There are new upright and simplified taillight units that house brake, reverse, and indicator lights at the rear end. On the sides, it equips a new set of 18-inch two-tone wheels with 265/60 series tires.

Sitting on the D-Max platform, the new BT-50 drops the Ford engine for a new four-pot 3.0-litre turbodiesel mill producing 190 PS of power and 450 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the wheels through a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox, available in both 4x4 and 4x2 versions. A smaller and less powerful engine is also expected to be offered for lower trims. In terms of fuel economy, the automaker does not reveal any figures.

Steeping inside the cabin, the new BT-50 boasts the pure Mazda style with the same finesse in design execution. The dashboard and door trims have high-quality finishings and look classy with its two-tone black and brown color scheme. For seats, Mazda designers used the low-rebound MDI polyurethane material, which reduces fatigue during long drives. 

Other key features include a touchscreen-based infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, push-button start/stop, and climate control. The new truck is well-packed with adequate safety bits comprising auto emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

Mazda will build the new pick-up alongside the D-Max in Thailand, and it is expected to go on sale in Australia towards the end of this year, but when will it come to Malaysia? 

Malaysian launch

Mazda has not yet announced the launch of the new BT-50 in Malaysia. The automaker hasn’t updated the truck ever since it was launched so that we can expect the arrival of the latest iteration soon. Mazda BT-50 in Malaysia fights against the likes of Nissan Navara, and of course, Ford Ranger and Isuzu D-Max. The new BT-50 would be a viable option for consumers looking for the ruggedness as well as good looks.

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