A report out of Australia has revealed fresh details about the new Mazda BT-50, including news the bakkie will effectively feature a power downgrade.

While the outgoing BT-50 shared much with the Ford Ranger, the next-generation model will be based on Isuzu’s new D-Max (the latter scheduled to start rolling off the Port Elizabeth production line only in the second half of 2021), with an official reveal set down for the "coming months".

According to CarAdvice, the next-gen BT-50 will share the new D-Max’s updated 3,0-litre turbodiesel engine, which boasts peak outputs of 140 kW and 450 N.m. That’s a little less oomph than the current BT-50’s Ford-sourced 3,2-litre five-pot, which generates 147 kW and 470 N.m (but, of course, more than the 110 kW/375 N.m 2,2-litre unit offered in the entry-level version of the outgoing BT-50).

However, the Australian publication says the new BT-50 will weigh “slightly less” than the Ranger-based model so will likely offer “similar performance”. In addition, it is expected to retain its 3 500 kg braked towing capacity and its 800 mm wading depth.

The new BT-50 is also set to gain the latest D-Max’s rear diff-lock, along with that model’s infotainment system (rather than Mazda’s own MZD-Connect arrangement). The latter will feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, while the steering column will finally gain adjustment for reach (in addition to rake). Expect top-spec models to be available with all manner of driver assistance technology, too.

Late in 2019, an Isuzu official said Mazda had no input into the development of the new D-Max, suggesting Mazda was responsible only for styling its version of the bakkie.

 

Original article from Car