Our three-decade affair with Mazda’s pickup line
We started our love affair with Mazda’s workhorses as early as the mid-90’s. Back then, we had the boxy 4×2 Mazda B-2200 pickup truck from its then local distributor, Francisco Motor Corporation. Personally, it even served as my ever-reliable daily driver from home to school and back.
Three decades later, now under Bermaz Auto Philippines, Inc. (BAPI), its pickups are not just reliable, but they are as stunning as ever. We first had the first editions of the Pangolin model during the height of the pandemic in 2021. After that, the following models then ensued.
Now on its third-generation model, the Mazda BT-50, in its upgraded look and features, is not just a ‘utility man’ but a gorgeous ‘catwalk supermodel’ rolling out there on our streets. It features a whole different kind of look and a new engine, along with advanced technology and safety features.
This latest iteration was officially locally launched last April with two variants, a 4×2 AT version and the top-spec 4×4 Pangolin model.
In partnership with Isuzu, this BT-50 shares the chassis and other features with the D-Max. For one, under its hood, the workhorse is powered by Isuzu’s 4JJ3-TCX 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine for all variants, mated to a six-speed tranny, which churns out a potent 187 hp and 450 N-m of torque.
Inspired by Mazda’s latest Kodo design philosophy, however, the pickup also even upped its ante on the outside with its more dynamic front fascia donning a massive black honeycomb grille, paired with the sculpted LED headlights. Underneath are a pair of sleek vertical lighting units that house the LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and fog lamps. From there, sloping character lines give its elegance and further refinement, while the step board and roof rails provide its brute manly appeal. These are then further complemented by black plastic trims and power-folding side mirrors.
The top-spec variant sports 18-inch alloy wheels, while the 4×2 variant is capped by 17-inch rims. At the rear, there is minimalist yet classy design topped by vertical LED tail lights.
Inside, Mazda prides itself of its human-centered design and craftsmanship that are truly top-notch. From its elegant cabin design, textured fabric, stitch leather, swathes of matt silver garnishes and signature Mazda steering wheel, everything feels premium.
Depending on the variant, it likewise features either an eight-inch or nine-inch LCD infotainment system with the top-spec sporting new features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, automatic dual-zone climate control, a remote engine start feature, multi-collision brake, driver attention assist, auto high beam control, rear cross traffic alert, pedal misapplication mitigation, and front parking sensors.
Moreover, tech standards across variants include remote keyless entry, a reverse parking camera, rear parking sensors, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.
With its 30 years of pickup lineage in the country, Mazda’s workhorse, like a number of candidates who successfully won in their respective seats recently, is a tried and proven contender that suitably deserves a seat in the hearts of our local pickup lovers.
