The third generation of the Mazda’s pickup truck is on the way. After ten years, the company will heavily update the offer and the look of the 2020 Mazda BT-50. Another big news is its possible return to the US. It is not impossible, especially having in mind the expansion of Mazda’s SUVs. Still, there are a lot of questions and obstacles the Japanese carmaker will have to solve before this happens.
Anyway, the 2020 Mazda BT-50 will still be available in other markets, outside the US. It is one of the most popular models in Asia, Australia, Europe, South America… We believe the company will add new units and the power and torque level will raise. The same 2.2 and 3.2 diesel engines will be available again, and Mazda plans to build an off-road edition.
2020 Mazda BT-50 Specs
Under the hood of the 2020 Mazda BT-50 will be diesel engines in most markets. Currently, there are two units that consume this kind of fuel. The smaller one is capable to produce 150 hp. It is a 2.2-liter that can also deliver 280 lb-ft of torque. Rear-wheel drive is standard and the power router is a six-speed automatic. Also, the new BT-50 will continue to use a manual gearbox as an optional feature.
More power comes from 3.2-liter displacement. Turbocharged L5 motor is creating 200 hp and 350 pound-feet of torque (470 Nm). It will use the same drivetrain options, including manual and automatic gearbox, and rear- and all-wheel drive choices. The new 2020 Mazda BT-50 will improve its towing capacity. Currently, it sits at 3,500 kg or 7,700 pounds. The new truck could go over 8,000 lbs.
Petrol Engine
The new 2020 Mazda BT-50 will have to add a petrol unit if it wants to enter the US market. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine Mazda CX-9 SUV is using is one of the options. This unit can deliver 225 hp. Still, to be competitive in the market, the BT-50 will need a V6 or much more powerful four-cylinder drivetrain. Ford Ranger is currently available with an only four-cylinder engine. However, there is no doubt that the US carmaker will add either V6 or diesel engine in the future.
2020 Mazda BT-50 Return to the US
The requirement for the return to the US market is the petrol engine. Diesel units and their emissions cannot meet the standard of the EPA. That is the first condition. However, the Japanese company could be interested in such a move. First of all, they have a huge success in the SUV market. The carmaker expands the lineup and the next move could be the mid-size truck. On the other hand, this class of pickups is also growing. More companies are getting into the business and the Mazda doesn’t want to miss the party. The BT-50 is capable to compete with Nissan Navara, Ford Ranger, and other trucks in different markets. So, the next challenge will be the US appearance.
2020 Mazda BT-50 Release Date
The new 2020 Mazda BT-50 will be ready for the start of the next season. However, the release date will depend on plans regarding the new markets and engines. Still, it is possible that US fans will see the preview of the concept next year, while the production model will appear in dealerships as 2021 YM.