Mazda has finally lifted the covers on its hotly-anticipated all-new BT-50 ute, with the new model pairing Isuzu mechanicals with Mazda’s own range-wide design language.

Looking to “bring unrivalled design, comfort and capability to the popular ute segment, raising the bar for what these customers can expect from their ute,” according to Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi, the new model has been designed with feedback from both commercial and recreational customers in mind to help it cater to a broad range of buyers.

Sharing a platform with the upcoming 2021 Isuzu D-Max that is soon set to hit Aussie shores – and pass through the Drive Section garage – the new BT-50 features the same revised 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine that has been powering the D-Max reliably for years, but with this latest update to it bumping power up to 140kW and 450Nm.

Do note, though, that those power figures are down slightly on the 147kW/470Nm offered in the current BT-50 which is based on the Ford Ranger and features its 3.2-litre five-cylinder diesel. However, Mazda is keen to point out that the new BT-50 will be far more frugal than its predecessor, although an official claimed fuel consumption figure is yet to be revealed.

As with its predecessor, a payload of at least 1000kg and braked towing capacity of 3500kg will also be maintained across the range while switching to the Isuzu platform.

But while it shares its oily bits with the new D-Max, the BT-50’s styling clearly sets it apart. Mazda has applied its Kodo design language to the new ute, giving it the bold and muscular proportions a ute needs to truly fit in on a worksite, while also having the model adopt Mazda’s distinctive range-wide fascia that ensures consistency with the rest of its lineup.

There are two bespoke body colours that have been developed for the BT-50, too – Gunblue Mica, which features lighter blue highlights to complement the deep, dark blue of its shaded areas; and Concrete Grey Mica that gives it what is described as “a more industrial presentation.”

Comfortable but body-hugging seats, a telescopic steering column, and soft touch materials are all noted as featuring inside its cabin, along with a large touchscreen infotainment system boasting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Perhaps most impressive, however, is its arsenal of active safety tech, with Adaptive Cruise Control, Auto Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert all fitted as standard.

Mazda also notes that a broad range of genuine accessories will be available, too, which is important given how many Australian buyers accessorise and modify their dual-cab utes.

The all-new BT-50 is set to go on sale in Australia in late 2020, with full pricing and specifications set to be announced closer to its launch.

Patrick Jackson
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