The new Mazda BT-50 double-cab was officially launched in South Africa this week.We bring you information regarding the respective derivatives in the range, their powertrains, specification details and, of course, their list prices.

The SA-spec Mazda BT-50 is assembled in Thailand and while it is a shared platform with the all-new Isuzu D-Max, we think Mazda has pulled off quite the trick. See, South Africa will be getting the new Isuzu D-Max, but that model will be assembled at Isuzu’s facility in the Eastern Cape, but due to Covid-19, the conversion of the plant from old to new has taken longer than planned.

ICYMI: We drove the new BT-50 in Australia last year –here’s what we thought of it

With an estimated SA market release of 2022 for the D-Max, the all-new BT-50 is going to have a substantial head start. We’re keen to see what the differences are between the Thai-built BT-50 and the SA-built D-Max, but that’s on 2022’s to-do list.

The BT-50 will come to market fully loaded with features. The MZD Connect Infotainment system will feature either a 7-inch or a 9-inch display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. There’ll also be a reverse camera with parking sensors, LED headlights, hill start assist, hill descent control, trailer sway mitigation, 7 airbags and cruise control.

There will be three levels of trim, with the naming convention of Active, Dynamic and Individual following the Mazda formula across its product range.

As far as engines go, the Active derivative is powered by a 1.9-litre turbocharged diesel engine with 110 kW and 350 Nm. Customers can choose from a manual gearbox or an automatic transmission.

The BT-50 Dynamic and Individual derivatives will have the 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine which produces 140 kW and 450 Nm. This powertrain is mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The BT-50 Individual will feature 4×4, while the rest of the range is 4×2.

Mazda BT-50 Trim Levels

All-New Mazda BT-50 1.9L Active 6MT & 6AT 4×2

Max Power (kW @ rpm): 110Max Torque (Nm @ rpm): 3506-Speed manual/automatic transmission7 Airbags SRS: Driver, Passenger, Knee, Side & CurtainAuto Cruise ControlInfotainment System:7-Inch Display ScreenApple CarPlay™ (wireless) & Android Auto™USB connectivity ports – 2 Ports6-Speaker sound systemRemote Keyless EntryMulti-function steering wheel: Audio, phone and voice controlsSeat trim – Cloth (Black & Dark Grey)ISOFIXVanity Mirror: PassengerAir-conditioning (Manual)Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)LED Headlamps and Fog LampsReverse cameraParking Sensors – Rear6-Way power adjustable seatRear floor ductsOne touch window: DriverPower Windows: Front and RearExterior Mirrors: Manual foldAuto door lockTrailer Sway Mitigation (TSM)Roll Over Mitigation (ROM)Hill Launch Assist (HLA)Hill Descent Control (HDC)4.2- Inch Display(meter)Tailgate lockTailgate handle & Exterior mirrors: Body ColourLocking Rear Differential (LRD)Rear and passenger assist grips17-inch Alloy Wheels

All-New Mazda BT-50 3.0L Dynamic 6AT 4×2

In addition to the features in the Active model, the Dynamic model includes:

Max Power (kW @rpm): 140Max Torque (Nm @ rpm): 4509-Inch Display ScreenExterior Mirrors: Auto fold, chrome and heatedSide Step: SilverFront rain-sensing wipersParking Sensors: front and rearAuto Headlamp LevellingLeather-wrapped steering wheelLeather-wrapped gearshift knobVanity Mirror with light: driver and passengerDual-Zone climate control air-conditionerRear center arm rest with cup holdersLumbar support – manual adjustable (driver)8-Speaker sound systemTail Gate handle & door handles: chrome plating18-inch Alloy Wheels

All-New Mazda BT-50 3.0L Individual 6AT 4×4

In addition to the features in the Dynamic model, the Individual model includes:

4-Wheel Drive (4WD)Front Axle Disconnect

How much is the new Mazda BT-50 in South Africa?

Mazda BT-50 1.9 Active Manual 4×2 R611 900

Mazda BT-50 1.9 Active Automatic 4×2 R647 900

Mazda BT-50 3.0 Dynamic Automatic 4×2 R759 400

Mazda BT-50 3.0 Individual Automatic 4×4 R794 400

Mazda SA says its new bakkie with come standard with a 3-year/unlimited-kilometre service plan, 3-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and 3-year/unlimited-kilometre roadside assistance.

Further Reading

Mazda BT-50 International launch review

Isuzu D-Max international launch review

Isuzu D-Max SA details

Mazda BT-50 Revealed