Besides the latest Mazda3 1.5 launched today, Bermaz Motor has also launched the latest Mazda BT-50 pick-up truck. While earlier generations were developed in collaboration with Ford, which had its version called the Ranger. Then Mazda ended joint product development with Ford and turned to Isuzu, adapting its current D-MAX to become the BT-50 which was launched in 2020.
KODO design
While technically similar, the BT-50 has its own distinct appearance with the use of Mazda’s own KODO design language. This design language is used for passenger vehicles as well and has often been praised for uniqueness and innovative styling.
For the latest BT-50, there’s a new signature wing grille and sleeker LED headlamps for a sharper, more commanding look. The redesigned bumper also features an ‘air curtain’ to increase aerodynamic efficiency and enhance real-world fuel consumption. At the rear, the tailgate now integrates a distinctive ridged design along the bottom edge of the panel, in addition to the new LED taillamps and larger Mazda logo.
Jinba-ittai for a truck too
Mazda applies its jinba-ittai philosophy of unity between driver and car in all its models – including MPVs and trucks. This means having a cabin layout with controls and displays positioned where they are intuitive to use and view. From this approach, the driver has confident control of the vehicle to fully enjoy driving it.
A completely new infotainment system is at the heart of the Human Machine Interface and is presented within a responsive central touchscreen interface that now integrates touch switches below the display for better usability and visibility. Physical volume and tuning dials are included either side of the screen, which is up to 230 mm across.
The dashboard adopts a clean, symmetrical design with soft-touch materials that balances toughness with elegance. While the visual appearance is refined, the cabin offers durability for work and comfort for long drives. Redesigned seats provide improved support, while enhanced insulation reduces noise for a calm and composed experience.
A new Multi-Information Display spanning up to 180 mm across the instrument binnacle now has added content for enhanced connectivity, is user-customisable and works in harmony with the central touchscreen to display useful and relevant The larger 9-inch infotainment display has connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Isuzu turbodiesel engine
The BT-50 is currently available in Malaysia with only the 3-litre turbodiesel 4-cylinder engine which produces 188 ps/450 Nm. The commonrail high-pressures direct-injection engine is a proven Isuzu unit but it’s not known if Mazda engineers have made tuning changes to give it a ‘Mazda character’. In the past, with shared models like the Mazda Tribute/Ford Escape, the Mazda version had subtle differences in tuning.
The 4×4 drivetrain has a 6-speed automatic transmission and the usual High/Low ranges with a transfer case. The new Rough Terrain Mode enhances handling, traction, and stability on challenging surfaces. By optimising throttle response and braking through the traction control system, it ensures maximum grip and control on uneven or slippery terrain. When activated by the press of a button, the driver can leave the challenging part of driving to the computer, and focus on steering the vehicle.
Upgraded ADAS
Like many modern trucks, the BT-50 offers occupant protection comparable to passenger cars. Its advanced i-Activsense ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) technologies, integrate active safety systems to monitor the surroundings and alert the driver of dangers, and also take autonomous action to avoid or reduce the effects of a collision.
The ADAS suite has also been comprehensively upgraded, starting with new front stereo cameras that double the vehicle’s field of view. Traffic Jam Assist is a new feature, as is Rear Cross Traffic Brake and Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, which uses the enhanced Traffic Sign Recognition system to set the vehicle’s speed.
The Automatic Emergency Braking system also now features motorcycle detection and pedestrian detection at intersections, while Emergency Lane Keeping is capable of detecting road edges without line markings.
The digital rear camera now has a hydrophobic coating to keep it cleaner, and dynamic guidelines have been added to the touchscreen display to assist with parking manoeuvres.
Imported in CBU (completely built-up) from the Isuzu global production hub in Thailand, the latest BT-50 is priced from RM140,418.40 (without insurance). The price includes a factory-fitted roller shutter over the cargo bay and wheelarch extensions.
