New Mazda BT-50 will be powered by Isuzu's 2.2L MaxForce engine

Pickups hold a special place in the hearts of Filipino motorists. Known for their versatility, these vehicles are equally adept at tackling business tasks during the week and lifestyle adventures on weekends. In this competitive segment, brands often emphasize ruggedness or utility, but Mazda has carved out a niche by adding a touch of premium flair.

With the refreshed BT-50, Mazda is looking to stand out by blending style, tech, and performance into a package that caters to both practical and aspirational buyers.

Unveiled in October, the updated Mazda BT-50 builds on its shared foundation with the current Isuzu D-Max but introduces significant updates to reflect Mazda’s unique identity. The exterior now features the brand's signature Kodo – Soul of Motion design language, giving it a more refined and sophisticated look. One standout feature is the new “Red Earth Metallic” color, a rich and striking shade that emphasizes the truck’s premium positioning. Inside, a revamped infotainment system takes center stage, offering a more intuitive touchscreen interface, while added driver-assistance technologies enhance road safety for peace of mind.

Mazda didn’t stop at aesthetics and convenience; they also made significant changes under the hood. At the 2024 Thailand International Motor Expo, the refreshed BT-50 debuted with a new 2.2-liter MaxForce DDi engine. This RZ4F-TC turbo-diesel replaces the previous 1.9-liter engine and brings a welcome boost in power and torque, producing 163 PS at 4000 rpm and 400 Nm from 1600 to 2400 rpm. Coupled with the new 8-speed Rev Tronic automatic gearbox, the updated BT-50 promises smoother shifts and improved fuel efficiency.

Currently, the Philippine market only offers the BT-50 with the 3.0-liter 4JJ3-TCX turbodiesel engine for its 4x2 and 4x4 variants. While this engine delivers robust performance, the addition of the 2.2-liter option in other markets hints at more diverse offerings in the future. 

Combined with the updated styling and advanced features, the refreshed BT-50 could further strengthen Mazda's foothold in the highly competitive pickup segment.

Mazda Philippines has yet to confirm when the updated BT-50 will arrive locally, but with its blend of practicality, premium design, and improved tech, it’s a model that promises to turn heads when it finally hits Philippine roads. 

In the meantime, checkout what Mazda has to offer in our comprehensive Car Guide. Or even better yet, download the AutoDeal app for Android and iOS for an even better and more immersive car-shopping experience.