Mazda has officially confirmed that a six-cylinder diesel engine is not in the cards for the BT-50 ute, despite speculation and market trends favoring more powerful options in the competitive ute segment.
Current Powertrain Options
The BT-50, which shares its platform with the Isuzu D-Max, currently offers two engine choices:
- 1.9-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel (110kW/350Nm)
- 3.0-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel (140kW/450Nm)
Market Context
- Some competitors, like Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok, offer V6 diesel options
- The decision aligns with Isuzu's engine lineup, which doesn't include a six-cylinder for the D-Max
Mazda's Stance
Vinesh Bhindi, Mazda Australia's Managing Director, stated:"There are no plans for a six-cylinder diesel engine for BT-50."
Recent Updates
- The BT-50 received a facelift for the 2025 model year
- Focus on design updates and technology improvements rather than powertrain changes
Implications
- May impact BT-50's appeal to buyers seeking more power, especially for heavy towing
- Positions BT-50 as a capable workhorse and lifestyle vehicle with its existing engine options
While Mazda's decision to stick with four-cylinder diesels for the BT-50 may disappoint some potential buyers, it reflects the company's confidence in its current powertrain offerings and alignment with its platform partner, Isuzu. As the ute market continues to evolve, Mazda seems content to focus on other aspects of the BT-50 to maintain its competitiveness.
