Mazda and Isuzu have started their long-term partnership in the truck segment starting with the new Mazda BT-50 2021. Their new pickup truck shares the platform and 3.0-liter engine with the Isuzu D-Max 2021.
The most distinctive feature of the BT-50 over the D-Max is its “Kodo” design similar to its SUV counterparts like the CX-5 and CX-9. These include the big grill at the front as well as the subtle curves along with its hood and sides. The interior is a big upgrade from the previous model of BT-50 which was based on the Ford Ranger before.
READ: Top 5 Pickup Trucks launching in the Philippines in 2020
The BT-50 will be powered by the same 3.0-liter Blue Power engine of Isuzu producing 187 HP and 450 Nm of torque. Transmission is to be confirmed but it is expected the BT-50 will have the manual and automatic options with both models having a payload capacity of 1000 kg or 1 ton and up to 3 tons of towing.
Both the Mazda BT-50 and Isuzu D-Max 2021 are slated to become available in Australia and select Asian regions including in Thailand. The Philippine launch for both trucks is estimated at the end of the year or early 2021. Pricing details are to be confirmed but we estimate there is a small difference from the current BT-50 model.
Mazda BT-50 2021 specs, release date Philippines, price
- Body type: 4-door pickup truck
- Engine: 3.0-liter 4-cylinder
- Power: 187 Horsepower
- Torque: 450 Nm pulling
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic or manual
- Fuel efficiency: up to 18 km/l, 70-liter capacity
- Ground clearance: 220+ mm, 800m wading depth
- Safety: Driver and front passenger’s airbags, side-curtain airbags, Adaptive Cruise Control, reverse parking sensors, ISOFIX
- Features: Cruise Control, Keyless Entry, Android or Apple Car infotainment
- Price: P1.1-million to P1.2-million 2WD base model with 4WD as top variant
- Release: Q4 2020 in the Philippines
