MOBILITY | Mazda PH unveils all-new BT-50
The Mazda BT-50 fuses together premium car-like comfort, elegance and style with the strength, stance and functionality of a dedicated workhorse.
Mazda Philippines introduces a new era of adventure and active lifestyle mobility as it unveils the all-new Mazda BT-50. Rebuilt from the ground up, the latest generation of Mazda’s venerable pickup truck melds the simplicity and dynamism of Kodo Soul of Motion Design with the real-world practicality, durability and versatility of a solid new platform.
The Mazda BT-50 fuses together premium car-like comfort, elegance and style with the strength, stance and functionality of a dedicated workhorse. Sculpted for leisure, engineered to get things done, it empowers its owners to conquer any challenge.
Designed for the discerning who demand the most out of their ride on road or off, the Mazda BT-50 is for the driven, hard-working individual who aspires to get ahead in life. It is the pickup truck that allows them to be anything they want.
“The all-new Mazda BT-50 is the pickup we have all been waiting for,” said Steven Tan, Mazda Philippines president & chief executive. “The new BT-50 brings power, stature and prestige into the pickup market as it sits proudly among the rest of our Kodo Soul of Motion-inspired lineup. It is a confident expression of strength and versatility tempered by style and boldness that will allow its driver to experience life to the fullest. Our customers will surely find in the new BT-50 the same premium quality, comfort, durability and driving satisfaction that they have come to expect from every Mazda.”
The BT-50 traces its roots from the Mazda B1500 B-series truck launched in Japan way back in 1961. Its long history as a workhorse, not only in the Philippines but also around the world, has established for itself a solid reputation of dependability and reliability over the years. In the last 60 years, it has evolved from a very capable cargo hauler into a stylish active lifestyle vehicle ready for business or leisure. The new BT-50 plays a key role in Mazda’s lineup for promoting a uniquely special driving experience.
Everything in the Mazda BT-50 is just that, all-new. From the platform, its drivetrain, its engine, and even its now more dignified stature, the new BT-50 delivers a sophisticated presence which is in line with the rest of Mazda’s design and engineering philosophies.
Authentic Mazda design
The seamlessly integrating the striking beauty of Mazda’s Kodo: Soul of Motion styling philosophy with the strength, power, and toughness of a practical, functional and utilitarian hauler, the new BT-50 stands out as a pickup truck with class.
Gifted with Mazda’s three-dimensional signature wing that anchors its sharp, sleek and elegant LED headlamps, the front end of the new BT-50 is unmistakably Mazda. Its sculpted front bumper is seamlessly integrated into the front fascia creating a continuous, elegant flow of light and shadow.
At the back, the rear combination lamps take on a similar cylindrical mold as the headlamps. This makes it consistent with Mazda’s preference for a round light design theme.
The new BT-50’s low rake hood, and its pronounced crease lines that extend all the way to the side mirrors, give the impression of dynamism and readiness even at a standstill. Flared fender panels convey an expression of strength and resolve, as what customers would expect from a pickup truck. And its new 18-inch wheel with a two-tone finish provides a stylish accent that expresses power, strength and depth to support the BT-50 on or off the road.
All these distinct styling cues elevate the new BT-50 from merely being a product of function, to being a bold and powerful evolution of form.
The BT-50 is ready and able to do the hard work it is designed for. The tub’s wide 1,530mm opening, 490mm depth, and 1,571mm length makes the BT-50 a versatile hauler for cargo of various shapes and sizes. All variants even come with a bedliner for added surface protection for the cargo bed. The 4×4 also has functional roof rail, enabling additional overhead cargo carrying ability.
By thoughtfully combining style with functionality, the new BT-50 achieves excellence in both worlds.
Channeling Jinba Ittai
As with every Mazda, the new BT-50’s interiors follow a Human-centric design direction. This means that every element present inside the cabin lends itself towards a more comfortable, intuitive and relaxed drive.
Crafted interiors that reinforce a harmonious interaction between man and machine is a trademark of every Mazda. And the new BT-50 is no exception. Echoing Mazda’s premium direction, the new BT-50’s SUV-like cabin is made of high-quality materials that are seamlessly integrated to provide comfort and convenience for both driver and passenger. The plush ambiance, detailed finish, and spacious feel is all achieved without sacrificing durability and functionality.
From the bold dashboard to the sculpted door panels, the BT-50’s cabin exudes an elegant yet highly functional finish. This attention to detail is matched in the molded front seats which are covered in fine brown leather (for the 4×4) or cool high quality black fabric (for the 4×2). Along with the padded leather knee pads and armrests, no stone was left unturned in the quest to have the BT-50 deliver the same luxurious and relaxing driving experience as one would expect from a Mazda.
To add a touch of class inside the cabin, matte-finished sculpted accents make their way from the doors to the dash. Along with the gloss finish on the air conditioning bezels, a sense of class and strength is achieved as both details harmoniously blend together.
But the BT-50’s interior is not only about style. Functional conveniences are available to both driver and passenger to make every ride as comfortable as possible.
The Multi-information Display in the meter cluster shows key information for the driver within his line of sight. It also shows connectivity information which makes changes to one’s music sources easier to achieve.
Seat warmer keeps the ride cozy and soothing especially in the cold outdoors. While electric seat adjustments for the driver’s seat help him realize fine, minute movements to achieve the proper driving position. This is complemented by the tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustments which enhance control and comfort over long drives.
Bottle holders in the doors are now bigger and can even accommodate a 1.5-liter drink bottle. Perfect to keep passengers hydrated during long drives. A secondary upper glove compartment is also made available to keep additional items in. There are 2.1 ampere USB ports front and rear that provide much needed power to recharge personal devices. And an Auto-Dimming rear view mirror takes the driver’s mind off from addressing rear-view glare at night.
The BT-50 is not short on innovation as well as it uses an infrared reflecting windshield glass to cut down the heat entering the cabin. Along with lessening discomfort on one’s skin, it also improves the effectiveness of the air conditioning system during warm days.
A new Remote Engine Start button on the key fob allows the driver to start the engine beforehand from up to 20 meters away and cool down the cabin before he even makes it to the vehicle. Combined with Keyless Entry and Walk Away Auto Lock systems, the new BT-50 makes starting and ending every journey as hassle-free as possible.
Even the rear seats offer generous space and afford a natural seating position for passengers. They also benefit from the easy to control Dual-Zone air conditioning system through rear louvers directing cool fresh air to the back. And secret compartments underneath the rear seats let one stow valuables away from prying eyes.
All passengers will enjoy relaxing music with the BT-50’s 9-inch Touchscreen LCD Infotainment System. Together with Android Auto and Wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity, the system’s 6×9-inch woofers in the front and rear doors, on-dash tweeters, and special roof speakers provide an 8-speaker surround setup that enhances driving pleasure and lessens distractions while on the road.
To let everyone onboard enjoy the full tranquility and premium riding feel the BT-50 affords, the cabin has been lined with foam fillers in strategic locations to reduce noise, vibration and harshness. Along with sound-insulating carpets and tighter door and window seals, a higher level of quietness is achieved.
All these interior design comforts, conveniences and innovations add up to a familiar premium driving and riding experience that is uniquely Mazda.
Power on demand
All three variants of the BT-50 will have a 3.0-liter In-line intercooler-equipped variable-geometry turbo diesel engine under the hood. With its high-pressure common rail system, heat-insulation coated pistons, and a double-scissors gear that reduces gear noise, this new engine is designed to deliver acceleration from low rpm, operate smoothly, and ensure reliability and dependability throughout its operational life.
The new diesel engine’s electronically controlled Variable-Geometry System (VGS) Turbocharger ensures power is available over a wider engine rpm range. With 190 ps on hand at 3,600 rpm and a maximum 450 Nm of torque available as low as 1,600 rpm, crawling or cruising with the new BT-50 is an effortless exercise.
To complement the highly capable mill, a strong and responsive 6-speed automatic transmission transfers power to the wheels in all three variants. The progressive gearing ensures that power is kept within the ideal rpm band in any given situation.
Ready for any surface
The BT-50’s body and chassis are built with dynamic performance and reassuring strength in mind. The use of high-tensile steel has allowed the creation of a lighter, yet more rigid body frame. This makes the BT-50 a joy to drive on or off the road.
Its light steering feel makes it easier than ever to maneuver around town or along trails. The double-wishbone front and leaf spring rear suspension components build confidence and ensure comfort and composure on any surface.
To ensure surefootedness in the toughest of terrains, the new BT-50 4×4 is equipped with an electronically controlled Drive Selector featuring options for 2-wheel Drive Low, 2-wheel Drive High, 4-wheel Drive Low, and 4-wheel Drive High power delivery. Together with an electronic Rear Differential Lock, maximum contact and traction is achieved even on loose and undulating surfaces.
Negotiating downhills is also easy with the new BT-50’s HIll Descent Control. The system assures a sure, steady crawl even with the driver’s foot off the throttle or brakes.
Sporting a ground clearance of 240mm and a wading depth of 800mm, the BT-50 is ready to see action at a moment’s notice.
A premium on safety
As with any Mazda, safety is essential to driving. The BT-50 comes with a host of active and passive safety features to ensure maximum protection in every drive.
The BT-50’s is equipped with Mazda Active Safety Technology (MAST), pre-crash safety features that work in harmony to keep you protected at all times. Technologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) lets you set a distance to the car in front with the system keeping this steady by automatically braking and accelerating as needed.
There is also Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) which detects vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians and applies the brakes if it senses an impending collision.
Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) alerts the driver when the vehicle veers off the center of the lane.
Forward Collision Warning(FCW) monitors vehicles in front to assess the imminent likelihood of a collision.
Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) works in conjunction with the Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) system to warn the driver of vehicles approaching from the rear.
And in the event of an accident, the All-New Mazda BT-50 is equipped with 7-airbags, including a Driver’s Knee Airbag, and Front Side Airbags as added layers of safety and reassurance.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) which keeps the vehicle stable during extreme maneuvers, along with convenience systems such as automatic wipers and Auto High Beam Control take the driver’s mind away from simple concerns of each journey.
Signature Mazda ownership experience
Mazda Philippines prides itself for being the only manufacturer that provides a 5 Year Free Service Plan. As with every other brand new Mazda, the plan covers the expenses of periodic maintenance at either 6-month or 10,000-kilometer intervals, for up to 5 years or 100,000 kilometers, whichever comes first.
The 5-Year Free Service Plan follows the comprehensive maintenance and parts replacement schedule recommended by Mazda Japan. It includes the highest-grade Shell fully synthetic lubricant, all scheduled replacement parts, and labor costs. Aside from significant customer savings, Mazda Philippines’ Free Service Plan shields customers from budgeting and cost inflation concerns during the course of their ownership experience.
Along with the 3-year Bumper-to-Bumper warranty included in every brand new Mazda vehicle purchase and Mazda Philippines’ award-winning after-sales service, customers can enjoy the reassurance and peace of mind of premium ownership with the all-New Mazda BT-50.
The lineup
The all-new Mazda BT-50 will be available in three different trims: The Manual Transmission 4×2 priced at P1,390,000.00; the Automatic Transmission 4×2 priced at P1,430,000.00; and the Automatic Transmission 4×4 priced at P1,790,000.00.
A range of colors from Concrete Gray, Gun Blue Metallic, Volcanic Red, Rock Gray, Icy White, Silver Ingot and True Black will also be available for customers with varying tastes and preferences.
The BT-50 will be available at 16 Mazda showrooms nationwide starting November 18, 2021.