The new pickup truck model has a lifespan of about 8 to 10 years or more. Fundamentally, the BT-50 and D-MAX share a platform that will support both brands for the next decade. Pickup truck platform innovations typically develop incrementally every ten years. The BT and D-MAX are essentially twins internally, while their body exteriors and badges differ completely. Both are produced at Isuzu's factory in Thailand. Mazda pays Isuzu to utilize Isuzu's research and development center and manufacturing plant. Although the exterior appearances differ, the interiors, engines, transmissions, and suspensions are the same because this production method is more cost-effective than Mazda building a vehicle entirely on its own.
Mazda BT-50 facelift Double Cab 4-door model.
BT-50 DBL 2.2 XT Hi-Racer 8AT priced at 992,000 baht (test unit).
BT-50 DBL 3.0 XTR Hi-Racer 6AT priced at 1,242,000 baht.
BT-50 DBL 3.0 XTR 6AT 4WD priced at 1,352,000 baht.
Vehicle quality warranty for 5 years or 100,000 kilometers, 1.99% interest rate, plus one-year first-class insurance and a fuel card worth 10,000 baht (30,000 baht for Mazda Family members).
After parting ways with Ford, Mazda relies on Isuzu to upgrade the pickup platform for enhanced performance. The new BT-50 uses ultra-high tensile steel at the 'gigapascal' level, reducing weight and increasing strength by 20 percent (gigapascal steel is about four times stronger than regular mild steel and is used for beams and pillars). The proportion of 390MPa steel in the body has increased compared to the previous model, which is about 50 percent stronger than regular mild steel. The front brake discs are larger, while the rear still uses drum brakes, which is acceptable. Its wading depth capability has improved to 800mm from 600mm, which is a notable enhancement. The Mazda BT-50 2.2 8AT features leaf spring suspension, rear drum brakes, rear-wheel drive, a decently luxurious interior, and some additional safety features. This model targets working individuals who use pickups daily without heavy-duty demands.
The 2025 Mazda BT-50 facelift (Minorchange) received major upgrades, especially a new 2.2-liter engine and 8-speed automatic transmission that emphasize smooth driving and fuel efficiency. The exterior features Kodo Design with a luxurious SUV-like appearance, a new front grille, LED projector headlights with automatic high-low adjustment, and redesigned LED taillights. Dimensions for the Double Cab high-rider variant are: length 5,280 mm, width 1,870 mm, height 1,790 mm, wheelbase 3,125 mm, ground clearance 240 mm. The cargo bed dimensions are approximately 1,571 mm long, 1,530 mm wide (1,120 mm between wheel arches), and 490 mm high internally. The wheels are 18-inch alloy with 265/60 R18 tires. Curb weight for the Double Cab 4x2 ranges from approximately 1,870 to 1,935 kilograms. The maximum towing capacity for the 2WD model is 3,500 kilograms. Fuel tank capacity is 76 liters.
Inside, the cabin uses more premium materials with attention to detail resembling a sedan. It comes with a 9-inch touchscreen supporting Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 7-inch TFT MID display for driving information. The seats are black fabric; naturally, the basic BT-50 2.2 comes with fabric seats only. Although the dashboard stitching and design are distinctive, they are essentially copied from the D-Max. However, this is not a major issue since the Isuzu D-Max interior is highly functional. Mazda BT-50 benefits from this interior layout, offering considerable comfort and a sturdy feel. A large amount of plastic is distributed across the dashboard, door panels, steering wheel, climate controls, and infotainment display.
The entertainment system, shared with the D-Max, is the smaller of two options available for the BT-50. It features an 8.0-inch touchscreen identical to the D-Max’s, with both touch shortcut buttons and a separate rotary knob for operation. The instrument panel includes two analog gauges flanking a central 4.2-inch LCD screen. The climate control uses simple rotary knobs that are easy to use but less modern than controls in higher trims. The gauge design is straightforward and, combined with the small screen, matches the uncomplicated feel of a basic pickup truck. Menus on this screen can be navigated via steering wheel buttons.
The three-spoke steering wheel is wrapped in genuine leather, with paddle shifters and various control buttons. The leather-wrapped rim contrasts with the deep black plastic on the lower spoke, which is accented with silver plastic. Buttons remain black plastic, complementing the pickup’s simple interior style. The climate controls are Isuzu’s rotary knobs, known for durability and long-term reliability compared to the more complex digital controls in higher trims. The only downside in the front cabin is somewhat limited storage space: cup holders, two small layered compartments for front passengers, a center console storage area, and a sunglass holder. However, there is no dashboard storage like the D-Max or extra cup holders similar to those in the Ranger.
The BT-50 2.2 8AT 4-door 2WD model is powered by a 2.2-liter turbo diesel engine (RZ4F-TC), a 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve with E-VGS Turbocharging. It produces a maximum of 163 horsepower at 3,600 rpm and peak torque of 400 Nm between 1,600 and 2,600 rpm. It is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode (+/- REV Tronic) and paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel.
The suspension is tuned in Mazda’s style, focusing on comfort while maintaining road grip, giving the feel of driving a passenger car. Safety features include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go (ACC), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). Fuel efficiency averages about 14 to 15.8 km per liter, based on testing in urban, suburban, and hilly conditions. The new 2.2-liter engine combined with the 8-speed transmission lowers engine RPMs on long trips, improving fuel economy over the previous 1.9-liter model.
The Mazda BT-50 2.2 turbo diesel 2WD is not designed for serious off-road performance with full all-wheel drive and low-range gearing. It performs well on gravel roads but struggles in muddy pits or regularly difficult terrain. The 4WD version priced at 1.35 million baht is more suitable for such conditions than the 2WD version at 900,000 baht. The factory-fitted Bridgestone Dueler AT tires are durable for tens of thousands of kilometers on paved roads and moderate off-road routes. These tires provide decent grip to reach challenging areas but are limited by the pure rear-wheel-drive setup, which may struggle without front-wheel assistance in some conditions.
Body roll is more pronounced than in the Travo and Ranger, with slight swaying typical of Isuzu chassis style. This has disappointed some BT fans who used older models co-developed with Ford. In reality, the new BT-50 offers enjoyable driving, good for long journeys with seats comfortable enough to avoid back or lumbar pain. Drivers should be cautious on gravel roads with low, sharp stones that are hard to spot. The BT-50 handles dirt roads well, with strong suspension suitable for rural terrain combined with urban driving. However, city driving is less agile due to the vehicle’s relatively large size.
Compared to the 3.0-liter engine with higher power, the 2.2-liter diesel falls short of being the best in its class. The 2.2-liter engine is designed to be just adequate, improved from the older 1.9-liter engine, which was underpowered and overly focused on fuel economy. The 2.2-liter is acceptable relative to the previous engine. Diesel engine noise resembles that of the 1.9-liter but runs smoothly with Isuzu’s distinctive diesel sound and accelerates appropriately at highway speeds. The new 8-speed automatic transmission replaces the former 6-speed, delivering smooth operation but with a slight lag when the accelerator is pressed abruptly during overtaking.
The driving quality is quite good. During testing without rear load, the BT-50 feels relatively smooth. While it cannot match the Ranger’s dominant driving comfort, it still provides a comfortable experience on long trips. Without load, the BT-50 offers a soft and stable ride on paved roads. Overall, the 2.2-liter BT-50 is ‘adequate’—it lacks revolutionary technology or driving features but fulfills standard expectations.
Another highlight is its agility in narrow roads, aided by the high seating position that offers excellent all-around visibility. Rear visibility is good but has typical pickup limitations, such as the cargo bed obscuring small or close objects behind. However, no significant visibility issues were found, and a rear camera enhances safety. The engine change explains why Mazda BT-50 and Isuzu D-Max, on which this truck is based, offer lower-performance variants to attract wholesale traders, delivery businesses, and rural customers. The 3.0-liter 4JJ3 engine, though robust and durable, is now outdated and popular only in some markets. Stricter emissions regulations make continuing the 3.0-liter difficult, necessitating alternatives like the 2.2-liter. The 1.9-liter engine remains strong and reliable, as seen in Thailand’s 4WD market with many power upgrades. However, Isuzu chose to replace it entirely. According to overseas automotive media, especially in Australia, Isuzu and Mazda receive criticism for the 3.0-liter engine’s excessive noise and noticeable turbo lag at takeoff.
Value and pricing.
The 2025 Mazda BT-50 is positioned as a lifestyle pickup emphasizing both heavy-duty capability and travel comfort. It suits those seeking a pickup with standout design and comprehensive interior features.
Approximate retail price for the Double Cab 2.2 model starts at about 992,000 baht for the 2WD high-rider (Hi-Racer) version (test unit).
Advantages.
New 8-speed automatic transmission: This is the standout feature, providing smoother and more continuous gear shifts than the previous 6-speed. Performance: The 2.2-liter engine delivers better power response than the former 1.9-liter unit. Fuel efficiency: The 8-speed transmission lowers engine RPM at high speeds, improving fuel economy with an official average of about 15.2 km per liter. Suspension and driving: The suspension effort maintains its characteristic feel but drives similarly to the Isuzu 2.2 8AT.
Disadvantages.
The 2.2-liter engine is available only in the 2WD high-rider (Hi-Racer) configuration. For 4x4 capability, customers must upgrade to the 3.0-liter model. Service centers and parts: Compared to market leaders like Toyota or Isuzu, Mazda’s service network may be smaller, and some parts may be slightly more expensive. Resale value: As a secondary brand, Mazda’s resale value may be weaker than leading competitors. Design: Although attractive with an SUV-like appearance.
Interior options.
The interior decoration emphasizes luxury and comfort similar to a sedan (SUV-like), with notable standard equipment including:
Entertainment system: 8- or 9-inch touchscreen (depending on configuration) supporting Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Air conditioning: Dual-zone automatic climate control with independent left-right settings and rear passenger air vents.
Convenience features:
Smart remote key with push-button engine start.
Multifunction steering wheel with cruise control and paddle shifters for gear changes.
USB-C power outlets for front and rear passengers.
Six-speaker audio system.
Safety features.
Both basic and advanced safety technologies.
Active safety features include:
RCTB (Rear Cross Traffic Brake): Brake assist when a vehicle is detected in blind spots during reversing.
DAA (Driving Attention Assist): Driver fatigue warning system.
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA/ESC) and Traction Control system.
Rearview camera and parking sensors.
Basic safety features:
Dual front airbags.
ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).
ISOFIX child seat anchors.