The all-new Mazda BT-50 boasts SUV-like power and handling to take you wherever work, family or leisure activities demand, in passenger-car-like comfort. It deliver’s Mazda’s customary Zoom-Zoom performance, albeit in an eco-friendly and economical manner.
Mazda BT-50 the powertrains
It starts with an all-new engine line-up, consisting of 2.2- and 3.2-litre diesel engines, and a 2.5-litre petrol engine, mated to 5- and 6-speed manual transmissions and a 6-speed automatic transmission. All 4WD models feature shift-on-the-fly, switching between 2WD and 4WD, and the available electric locking rear differential promotes off-road drivability.
Mazda BT-50 Diesel engines
The in-line 4-cylinder 16-valve MZ-CD 2.2 common-rail direct-injection powerplant is the mainstay of the engine line-up, and is offered in two versions. The 88kW version delivers 3,700 rpm and maximum torque of 285Nm at 1,400 – 2,900, while the 110kW version delivers 3,700rpm and maximum torque of 375Nm at 1,500 – 2,500rpm (EEC), figures that exceed virtually all competitors’ 2.5-litre offerings.
The MZ-CD 3.2 is Mazda’s first 5-cylinder engine offering large displacement in a compact, highly-efficient unit that achieves class-leading power and torque of 147kW at 3,000rpm / 470Nm at 1,750-2,500rpm together with superior fuel efficiency, while suppressing NVH for a quiet and comfortable ride.
Both 2.2- and 3.2-litre powerplants feature a cast-iron cylinder block with ladder frame construction for greater rigidity, an aluminium cylinder head, maintenance-free chain-driven camshafts, and maintenance-free hydraulic lash adjusters. An advanced ultra-high pressure (1,800 bar) common-rail injector system with precision multistage piezo injectors are fitted to all diesel engine variants, with a variable-nozzle turbo-charger on the 3.2-litre and High Power 2.2-litre models. Other 2.2-litre models are equipped with fixed-geometry turbochargers, and all turbochargers feature a large capacity intercooler.
The exhaust gas recirculation system has a high-efficiency cooler to further lower combustion temperatures.
These diesel engines (except the 88kW MZ-CD 2.2) are mated to either 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmissions.
Mazda BT-50 Transmissions
The new 6-speed manual transmission optimally positions the short-stroke shift lever for fast, precise gear shifting. Rigid laser welded synchronizers handle the high torque while ensuring light, positive shift action. In addition, the link-type shifter with decoupling device between the main and selector rails enables a shorter shift lever and shift stroke for a sportier, more passenger-car-like feel. An upshift indicator mounted in the tachometer promotes fuel economy by helping the driver to avoid using unnecessarily high engine speeds.
The 6-speed automatic transmission features closely-spaced gear ratios with a wide spread for excellent torque from low engine speeds, with low emissions and superior fuel efficiency. The transmission has a dedicated control unit for high-speed shift control, while communicating with the engine module to enable smooth, precise shifting and excellent response to the driver’s demands. Advanced shift-control technologies have been adopted from Mazda passenger cars such as the Mazda6. These include Active Adaptive Shift (AAS) and Sequential Shift Control (SSC). AAS optimizes gearshift control in accordance with the driver’s style (learned over time) and driving conditions, while SCC offersNormaland Performance modes plus a Manual mode that allows manual shifting.
Mazda BT-50 Petrol engine, 5-speed manual transmission
The MZI 2.5 inline 4-cylinder DOHC petrol engine features a lightweight cast aluminium cylinder block, aluminium cylinder head with high-flow intake ports and cast-aluminium pistons. Sequential Valve Timing optimizes combustion for the best combination of power and fuel efficiency, while a sequential multi-port fuel-injection system helps promote fuel efficiency and lower emissions. This engine and the 88kW MZ-CD 2.2 diesel unit are paired with a new 5-speed manual transmission.
Mazda BT-50 Handling
The all-new BT-50 is engineered to provide the comfort of a passenger car with SUV-like handling. Front suspension is a double-wishbone layout with coil springs and the rear is a rigid axle with leaf springs, giving superior ride comfort regardless of load and road conditions. Optimized front suspension geometry and enhanced rear suspension rigidity promote sure, stable handling. Newly-adopted rack-and-pinion steering features a rigid mounting structure for a direct feel, while a quicker gear ratio and increased steering angle gives excellent manoeuvrability. It all adds up to responsive, linear Zoom-Zoom handling. The ladder frame is re-engineered for greater rigidity, while the cab mounts are re-designed to help prevent vibrations from reaching the cabin.
Mazda BT-50 and more
All models feature twin-piston calliper front disc brakes – disc diameter is increased to 16 inches for greater performance. Comprehensive measures including greater frame and cabin rigidity and softer engine and transmission mounts drastically reduce NVH to give that passenger-car-like quiet. Finally, the new BT-50’s styling isn’t just about striking looks: extensive simulation and testing resulted in an aerodynamically efficient shape that contributed to high-speed stability, fuel economy and reduced cabin noise.
