Next-Gen 2021 Mazda BT-50 Set For Debut, Shares Platform With Isuzu D-Max

For a long time, Mazda was in partnership with Ford. Well, this cooperation came to an end and the Japanese manufacturer did not waste any time. Like many other companies, it needed a partner for future projects, this time in the truck segment. The new associate comes from the same country, which could be more fruitful for both carmakers. Isuzu released the new D-Max pickup, which is the new sibling to the 2021 Mazda BT-50. The goal is to reach more markets and expand presence in the existing destinations, especially Europe.

The 2021 Mazda BT-50 will start the third generation of the truck. It will use the same architecture as the new D-Max. The first impressions about the fresh release by Isuzu are positive and the upcoming concept will make BT-50 tougher and capable to install a hybrid technology somewhere in the future. The styling is totally up to Mazda. Well, the Japanese company is always delivering breathtaking design solutions and the new truck won’t be an exemption.

The truck is introducing some of the advanced technologies. However, it is not going to be enough for the US debut. Definitely, it is a dream of every truck to get on the biggest stage in the market. But, Mazda will have to work a lot before their BT-50 becomes a serious competitor to the US and other Japanese trucks, such as Toyota Tacoma, Chevy Colorado, and Ford Ranger.

2021 Mazda BT-50 restyling

2021 Mazda BT-50 Specs

The look might be new, but Mazda is not giving up on the existing drivetrains. Well, their truck is using only diesel units. A petrol option is coming as well. the only powerplant we can be sure that comes next season is a 2.2-liter turbodiesel. However, it won’t be Ford’s Duratorq unit, like it was before. Instead, the Japanese company is bringing its own 2.2-liter displacement, built with SkyActiv-D technology. The engine will be able to return 175 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Since a 2.2 Duratorq is not there anymore, there won’t be a larger 3.2-liter unit, which also came from Ford’s factories.

Instead, the new partnership jumps in with the solution. Isuzu is using a 3.0-liter turbodiesel, which is already proven as a reliable and durable unit. With 190 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque, it is ready for work you request from the truck. The 2021 Mazda BT-50 is capable of taking this mill as one of the options. The bad thing is the emissions rating. The engine needs tuning to meet the requirements of the European market.

On the other hand, there is a novelty from Isuzu. The Japanese company introduces a new 1.9-l bi-turbo plant with 150 hp and 280 lb-ft. It is less capable but more efficient and greener than any other diesel we previously mentioned. However, it is not proven, but the initial feedback is promising. Fresh features will definitely lure more buyers.

new 2021 Mazda BT-50

Petrol Units

Gasoline options are not so popular for trucks outside the US. Emission standards are not so strict, so carmakers and buyers are keen on diesel engines, which consume less fuel and tow more. Maintenance is slightly more expensive, but diesel plants also last more. Still, the 2021 Mazda BT-50 might offer a petrol unit just as an option, especially in Europe, where regulations are becoming harsher.

A 2.5-liter Skyactiv four-banger is the best choice. Naturally-aspirated, it can deliver 190 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque. If engineers decide to beef it up, turbochargers can increase outputs to 250 ponies and 320 pound-feet of torque. Nevertheless, the gasoline engine won’t be able to meet the towing capacities of diesel mills.

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2021 Mazda BT-50 Restyling

The all-new 2021 Mazda BT-50 truck brings a lot of changes, outside and inside. The carmaker is not offering all the details about the pickup, but there are still enough details to expect the vehicle eagerly. The truck will keep the same length, which is slightly longer than its new sibling. The wheelbase is 3,125 mm. A fresh exterior is highlighted with the shield grille and a big Mazda badge on it. It is not something totally new since the CX-9 SUV is already using the same solutions.

The interior is also suffering serious changes. The 2021 Mazda BT-50 won’t be the same as before. The cabin is nearly premium. Chiefs say Mazda is raising the bar with the offer that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You won’t find these features in many other trucks, as well as the adjustable steering. The center of the infotainment system is a 4.2-liter touchscreen, and there are also USB connectivity, heated front seats, parking sensors, while the navigation is available at higher trim levels.

2021 Mazda BT-50 interior

When Will 2021 Mazda BT-50 Be Available?

The truck is official. The Japanese company announced that production will start in the second half of 2020 in Thailand. The 2021 Mazda BT-50 will be available for Australian buyers first, and then it arrives in other parts of the world. By the end of the first quarter of 2021, the pickup is going to be in European dealerships.

Source: Car Advice

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