Mazda BT-50 2021

The Mazda BT-50 was launched in the Philippines in 2012 and was available in three variants consisting of two automatic transmission models and one manual variant. Interested buyers had a choice between two turbo diesel engine options, a 2.2-liter and a 3.2-liter. The BT-50 was also available in 4x2 and 4x4 configurations. Mazda Philippines would also later release a special edition of the pickup truck called the BT-50 Pangolin giving it more off-road-ready accessories.

The Mazda BT-50 rides on the Ford T6 platform and is available as a front-engine rear-wheel-drive or as a front-engine four-wheel-drive configuration. Powering the Japanese pickup truck is either a 2.2-liter or a 3.2-liter turbo diesel engine. The 2.2-liter powerplant produces 148hp and 375 Nm of torque while the 3.2-liter motor produces 197hp and 470 Nm of torque with transmission options coming in the form of a 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission. In terms of suspension, the BT-50 rides on an independent double-wishbone rigid set up at the front and leaf springs at the rear. Stopping power comes in the form of hydraulic with vacuum servo assistance ventilated disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. 

The Mazda BT-50 handles perform well thanks to its selection of frugal and powerful diesel engines, there is no shortage of power as reaching high speeds or accelerating to overtake vehicles is not a problem. The transmission also seemed geared more toward highway usage as it has its tendencies to go gear hunting at lower speeds. For those who aren't used to a sensitive accelerator pedal, the BT-50 could come as a bit of a surprise as it can launch the pickup truck forward with gear gusto. The brakes on the vehicle are progressive and the pedal feel is also good, however, it lacks an initial bite. The steering feel is also great, however, it is on the heavier side, which can make low-speed maneuvers a little bit harder. Ride comfort is on the bouncy but it is to be expected from a pickup truck. 

The Mazda BT-50 comes standard with a 2-DIN infotainment system that comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities along with USB and Bluetooth connectivity. It also comes standard with electronic automatic dual-zone temperature control and with an auto-dimming rearview mirror that also comes with a rearview camera display monitor. 

The Mazda BT-50 comes equipped with Halogen projector headlights and with auto on/off, halogen tail lamps, halogen front fog lamps, time adjustable intermittent with rain-sensing wipers, and a chrome front grille for its 3.2-liter 4x4 variant. its other variants come with a body-colored grille instead. Also standard with the vehicle power electric adjustable side mirrors with power fold along with side steps that come in a bright finish or in matt black depending on the variant. A bed liner is also standard with the vehicle. 

When it comes to the interior, the Mazda BT-50 comes with a black and gray themed interior with black leather being the main material for the seats. Giving the vehicle a more premium feel are also leather accents found on the door trim, gear shifter, and steering wheel.