All-new Mazda BT-50 set for Thailand debut in January 2021

While Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) has recently confirmed the arrival of the all-new D-Max in 2021, its half-brother, the Mazda BT-50 is nearing its way towards the Philippines. As the all-new model is set to enter the ASEAN region, with Thailand being the first country to get it. 

The all-new Mazda BT-50 made its first debut in Australia last June. Notably, its outgoing model has gone through 9 long years of being present in several markets, that’s why it’s about time this pickup gets a fully-changed model. From being based in a Ford Ranger, Mazda has then shifted this collaborative effort with Isuzu, as BT-50 is now based on the all-new D-Max which currently sits as Thailand’s best-selling pickup truck.

Now, going over the specifications, the same dimensions of the Australian-specced BT-50 shall also apply for Thai-based model. Respectively, 5,280 mm long, 1,870 mm wide, 1,790 mm tall, along with a 3,125 mm wheelbase. Exterior wise, the midsize pickup will showcase its sleek fascia that goes in line with the rest of its stablemates, select trims will also get the LED-lighting system with DRLs. Moreover, the BT-50’s outdoorsy vibes is further elevated by its roof rails, plus, select variants should also come with a set of 18-inch alloys wrapped in 265/60 tires.

Unlike all other Mazda products, the BT-50 doesn’t get the Mazda Connect infotainment system, instead, it gets a different 9-inch touchscreen that still comes with the much-needed Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, sound is then emitted through an 8-speaker setup. In general, the interior looks subtle yet elegant, given the fine mixture of black and brown accents that are found on the dash, door sidings, and the seats. 

Being based on Isuzu’s pickup, the Thai-spec Mazda BT-50 shall come with two engine options, including a 3.0-liter turbo diesel motor that produces 187 hp 450 Nm of torque, and a 1.9-liter RZ4E turbo-diesel mill that puts out 148 hp and 350 Nm of torque. Buyers could either opt for a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic.

As for safety, the model shall benefit from features like parking sensors, a reverse camera, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, ABS, EBD, and many more. The 2021 Mazda BT-50’s Thailand debut is slated this coming January. By then, we’re still going to have to wait for any further announcement from Mazda Philippines as to when the all-new model will reach our shores.