Big things are coming with the 2023 Mazda BT-50. The Japanese company is not partnering with Ford anymore, which opens door to other possibilities. The first of them is the US truck market. But, before the BT-50 debuts on the major stage in the world, it will need a lot of modifications. Don’t worry, the Japanese company is ready for big challenges. A big tail wind is going to be the upcoming six-cylinder drivetrain.
The third generation of the pickup debuted in 2020. It is still early for the big redesign, but the new engines could cause an exception. The company is not a big player in the truck market, mostly because of the Ford Ranger, who was higher in the pecking order. Now, the situation is different, and the 2023 Mazda BT-50 is ready to conquer like SUVs and crossovers did it in past few seasons.
New Engines
Two fresh configurations are announced for the 2023 Mazda BT-50. Not only the truck, but also big SUVs, such as CX-9 and CX-90 are going to get those units. A 3.0-liter inline-six will be enhanced by a hybrid technology, which is also something new for the Japanese company. An eight-speed automatic transmission is a power router. Of course, the truck is going to offer both two- and four-wheel drive setups. The company will also keep a 2.5-liter turbo-four. Outputs of an I6 model are not available yet. But, a 3.0-liter displacement will top 250 horsepower coming from at four-banger. Also, an I6 won’t require premium fuel for the best performance.
There is another six-pot mill. But, the 2023 Mazda BT-50 diesel is not going to be available in the US. Too bad, since a 3.3-liter SkyActiv D with a mild-hybrid technology would be a refreshment for the market. The Japanese company is already well-known for its low-emission oil burners, and the e-Skyactiv technology is going to push them closer to zero.
2023 Mazda BT-50 Redesign
The new body for the truck is not coming with the 2023 Mazda BT-50 model. The mid-cycle update is planned for 2024 or 2025. So, the truck is going to be unchanged, outside and inside. A revision of features and options is possible. The infotainment system always needs to keep up with modern needs. The BT-50 should be available with single and double cab configurations. Trim levels and packages depend on the market where the pickup is being sold.
2023 Mazda BT-50 Release Date and Price
The new engines, especially those with six cylinders, are going to increase the price of the truck. Even those configurations with old drivetrains will be more expensive next year. But, Mazda is going to cover more markets and the Japanese company is starting the big expansion of the pickup segment. The ultimate goal is to deliver the production to the United States. Anyway, the release date is not confirmed yet. Fans believe the Japanese carmaker will launch sales early in 2023, and the US version might take further modifications and get there as the 2024 YM.