New GT SP flagship ute, new engine, and light equipment updates to boost 2022 Mada BT-50 line-up.
Mazda will introduce new models from the start of next year, expanding showroom options for buyers with additional top and lower-end specifications and some equipment updates range-wide.
Headlining proceedings is the Mazda BT-50 GT SP dual-cab ute, the new factory flagship model that sits above the current GT. Unlike the unique Thunder which is put together locally using designs from Mazda Australia engineers, the SP will come from the factory with a unique look and extra equipment.
Lower in the range is the introduction of a 1.9-litre diesel turbo engine model following Isuzu’s recent roll-out of the same spec. There is also a cab-chassis version of the XTR available. All MY22 models will also gain a Lane Support System button which lets drivers easily disable lane support systems if required.
The new BT-50 SP is powered by the stalwart 3.0-litre diesel turbo four-cylinder engine producing 140kW and 450Nm through a six-speed automatic or manual transmission. Like the GT, the driveline is exclusively a part-time 4×4 system with locking rear differential as standard (there’s no 4×2 available).
Equipment upgrades for the SP over the GT, which itself includes heated and electrically adjustable front seats in leather upholstery, are a number of exterior bling upgrades, as well as ‘driftwood’ leather with black synthetic suede trim inside.
Outside are new 18-inch satin black alloy wheels; black grille, door handles, side mirrors, wheel flares and sail-lane sports bar; grey roof rails and side steps; and a manual black roller tonneau cover with tub liner inside.
“As we move towards the Brand-New BT-50’s second year, we are already focused on evolving the product and offering wider customer choice, which is a hallmark of our business,” said Mazda Australia Managing Director, Vinesh Bhindi.
We see the new Mazda BT-50 SP as a direct competitor to the likes of the Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain, Toyota Hilux Rugged, and Ford Ranger FX4. Pricing is yet to be revealed, but it will arrive in January 2022.
Lower in the range Mazda has introduced the BT-50 XS, a budget entry-grade using a new 1.9-litre diesel turbo producing 110kW and 350Nm exclusively through a six-speed automatic. Drivetrain and cab combinations are 4×2 Single Cab Chassis, 4×2 Dual Cab, and 4×4 Dual Cab.
The new XS mirrors the XT equipment list, but supplements the larger 3.0L engine for the 1.9L. That means gear such as 17-inch alloys, LED headlights, cloth seat trim, 7.0-inch infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, reversing camera, and a full safety suite with AEB, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning with keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert and rear parking sensors on the style side utes.
“The new Mazda BT-50 SP model brings a strong, sporty aesthetic with impressive equipment levels, while the new 1.9-litre turbo-diesel drivetrain delivers a highly capable entry point into the BT-50 model range,” added Bhindi, encouraged that the new additions will give Mazda a nice boost in sales.
“Brand-New Mazda BT-50 has performed strongly in 2021, with July recording the second-highest sales month in the nameplate’s history. July also saw the range surpass the total 2020 BT-50 sales figure. These impressive results have enabled us to secure additional supply from November production.”
Full specification and pricing details will arrive closer to the updated range’s on-sale in January 2022.