New Mazda BT-50 ute revealed

Mazda’s new dual-cab workhorse has undergone a massive change that is sure to have Toyota and Ford looking over their shoulders.

All-new 2020 Mazda BT-50.

Mazda’s next-generation workhorse has broken cover.

The new ute is a break from tradition for the Japanese car maker, as it no longer shares underpinnnings with Ford’s popular Ranger ute.

This time Mazda has joined forces with Isuzu for the new BT-50, which is due to go on sale later this year.

The new BT-50 shares its underpinnings with the soon to be released next-gen Isuzu D-Max.

Isuzu’s current D-Max ute has become a strong seller in its own right in Australia. The tough workhorse has gained a cult following for its tough off-road ability and bulletproof reliability.

The Mazda BT-50 has never been a strong seller, despite the success of its Ford twin-under-the-skin.

Polarising looks kept buyers away initially and despite a makeover it has always been a poor relative to the top-selling Ranger. The sales gap has widened since the Ranger received a number of mechanical improvements and the Mazda remained unchanged.

The BT-50 is sure to share Isuzu’s rugged off-road capabilities.

This new version adds fresh tech, engines and safety equipment to better compete in one of the most competitive segments in the country.

Leading the changes is a new 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine making 140kW and 450Nm, replacing the existing five-cylinder turbodiesel making 147kw and 470Nm. Mazda hasn’t revealed fuel use figures but claims there is a big improvement because of a drastic reduction in the vehicle’s weight, which should also improve performance despite the reduction in power and torque.

Lighter body weight help the BT-50 achieved greater fuel economy from a smaller engine.

Tradies can rest easy about the new BT-50’s capabilities — it has a payload of more than one tonne and a braked towing capacity of 3500kg.

Mazda is loading up the BT-50 with advanced safety tech including adaptive cruise control, auto emergency braking, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard.

The styling of the BT-50 has also been brought up to date, incorporating Mazda’s latest “Kodo” design language that features on its SUV line-up. The jury is out on whether tradies will warm to the softer, car-like styling or continue to favour the tough truck-like looks of the Ranger and HiLux.

The new BT-50 will have a much improved cabin.

Inside, Mazda has improved the ambience with a stylish central display screen and the brand’s trademark quality and attention to detail.

Mazda’s local boss Vinesh Bhindi believes the new BT-50 will reset the dual-cab ute market in Australia.

“Brand-New Mazda BT-50 will bring unrivalled design, comfort and capability to the popular ute segment, raising the bar for what these customers can expect from their ute,” said Mr Bhindi.

“A more rugged, muscular application of Mazda’s successful Kodo design gives (the BT-50) unmistakeable road presence, while the hi-tech safety features provide drivers and fleet managers with peace of mind.”

Full pricing and specification details will be revealed closer to the car’s launch date.