Mazda pickups make a comeback

Mazda pickup truck lovers, unite!

It’s been more than a decade since we’ve seen the last of the much-loved Mazda B-series pickups, the B2200 and the more recent B2500. That was back when Francisco Motors distributed Mazda pickups (and Columbian Autocar distributed Mazda cars and minivans).

In those days, pickup trucks were viewed more as serious cargo-carrying workhorses rather than everyday modes of transportation. They had very little in the way of creature comforts save for rudimentary airconditioning, a simple stereo and some power amenities. Styling definitely took a backseat to functionality.

But with the appearance of the concept car-like Mitsubishi Strada, the stylish Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara, and the ruggedly handsome Isuzu DMAX and Ford Ranger (not to mention their ever escalating retail prices), the pickup has evolved into an upscale multitasking active lifestyle vehicle.

And it is into this environment that Mazda Philippines has unleashed its new truck, the BT-50.

True to its stylish and fun-to-drive “zoom-zoom” image, the new BT-50 embodies much of the DNA that has made its Mazda3, Mazda6, MX-5, CX-9 and Mazda Tribute models stand out from the rest of the pack.

The BT-50 boasts of strong state-of-the-art 2.5- or 3-liter 16-valve common-rail direct-injection (CRDi) 4-cylinder diesel motors, with the former producing 143 hp and 330 Nm torque and the latter generating 156 hp and 380 Nm. Both engines reach peak torque at an impressively low 1800 rpm.

Both engines are B5 capable, which means that they can take in fuel that is a mixture of 5% biodiesel and 95% diesel making them efficient and “green”.

The engines are paired with a smooth-shifting 5-speed manual transmission. The new pickup comes in 2WD and 4WD versions, the latter using a 4WD system that features smart, easy-shift operation for commercial use or for more adventurous off-road applications.

Mazda’s typically responsive steering is retained in the BT-50’s Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system. On the braking side, the BT-50 employs a four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-Force distribution (EBD) to boost confidence and peace of mind. The truck also has a Triple-H body structure that provides improved collision resistance and disperses impact energy into the body frame.

It also has advanced dual front airbags, front side impact airbags, 3-point safety belts for all seating positions, front safety belt pre-tensioners with load-limiters, child-proof door locks, remote keyless entry and a burglar alarm system.

Embellished with Mazda’s trademark five-point grille and a new integrated front bumper, headlamps and fog lamps, the BT-50 gives a feeling of both toughness and stylishness.

It sports bold fenders flares with large 245/70R-16 tires set on 16-inch alloy wheels.

The BT-50 sports large and thick doors, a chunky tailgate and tall cargo box panels carved on a smooth and seamlessly shaped body.

Inside, the Mazda BT-50 makes sure you don’t miss your everyday sedan. Large spacious seats are provided for better support especially on rough roads. Interior NVH levels are among the lowest in its class, thanks to added insulation in the engine compartment and cabin.

The new floor console now integrates storage box, cigarette lighter with removable ashtray and four cup holders in a single unit for a higher quality feel. For music lovers, there is a new audio system which is MP3-capable with Audio Level Control (ALC) that automatically adjusts the volume to match the speed of the pickup at any given moment.

Power adjustable side mirrors, interior fuel cap cover opener, one-touch power windows, and power door lock/unlock controls from the driver’s seat are standard equipment.

The new Mazda BT-50 comes in Lagoon Blue, Copper Red, Cool White, Titanium Gray and Desert Bronze.

Get a glimpse of the new Mazda BT-50 as it debuts in the following venues: Alabang Town Center on October 24-26, SMX Convention Center on Oct. 24-26, Vira Mall Greenhills on Oct. 24-28, SM Marikina on Oct. 24-29, SM Pampanga on Oct. 24-26, SM City Lipa on Oct. 24-26 and in Ayala Center Cebu on Oct. 25-26.

The all-new new Mazda BT-50 is currently offered at an introductory price of P1.329 million for 3.0L 4x4 MT variant and P949,000 for 2.5L 4x2 MT and is available for viewing at Mazda showrooms in Alabang, EDSA Greenhills, Makati, Quezon Avenue, Pampanga, Batangas, and Cebu.