Mazda BT-50 – next-generation model to be based on Isuzu D-Max; no current plans for pick-up-based SUV

Mazda_BT-50_Hilux-based_Theo

At a business performance presentation for the ASEAN region in Japan today, Mazda’s executive officer for growing markets Hiroshi Inoue has revealed a few key facts on the company’s recently-inked commercial vehicle parnership with Isuzu.

Firstly, he confirmed that the deal would include a jointly-developed pick-up truck to replace the current BT-50, meaning that Mazda’s one-tonne offering would move away from sharing a platform with the T6 Ford Ranger to being based on the next-generation Isuzu D-Max.

Inoue added that the Mazda and Isuzu models would be differentiated in a similar manner to the existing BT-50 and Ranger, which boast unique exterior body panels and dashboards.

Additionally, Inoue said that the next Mazda pick-up will not be built at the AutoAlliance Thailand (AAT) plant in Rayong, where the BT-50 is being built alongside the Ranger. Instead, it will be produced together with the D-Max at one of Isuzu’s facilities in Thailand.

As a result, Mazda’s capacity at AAT – which it shares 50/50 with Ford – would be dedicated exclusively to passenger vehicles in order to free up much-needed production capacity due to growing demand.

Responding to a question regarding plans for a pick-up-based SUV like the Isuzu MU-X, Inoue said that there were no such plans at the moment, as demand for such vehicles is limited to markets like Thailand, Philippines and certain African countries.

Inoue also said that there was a much bigger demand for vehicles like the CX-5, which is more suitable to more markets, adding that the company had previously discussed with Ford to have an Everest-based SUV, before it decided that focusing on the development of the CX-5 was a better solution.

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Jonathan Lee

After trying to pursue a career in product design, Jonathan Lee decided to make the sideways jump into the world of car journalism instead. He therefore appreciates the aesthetic appeal of a car, but for him, the driving experience is still second to none.

 

Comments

  • kenot on Jul 28, 2016 at 12:05 pm

    Kodo design only beautiful with the car and suv..for pickup…better get other face design.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 2
  • Double Standard on Jul 28, 2016 at 12:55 pm

    Err .. no comments? Come on bashers. Mazda is doing a rebadge like proton. And it is going to be built at Isuzu’s plant.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 4
    • u don’t talk, no one will say u bisu

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 13 Thumb down 1
      • So all those double standard, hatred spewing bashers and RBAs r tin kosong lah? Oh wai…

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 1
  • BT50=D-Max=Colorado?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
    • Thats why according to basher logic Mazda, Isuzu and Chevy must kolos shop NOW! Otherwise they r kroni, korup, tongkat

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 2
    • bukapintubayartol on Jul 28, 2016 at 6:47 pm

      No GM and Isuzu will part ways and the Colorado will no longer be based on the D-Max http://www.autonews.com/article/20160722/OEM01/160729942/gm-isuzu-end-pickup-truck-tie-up-in-asia-gm-eyes-more-upscale-market

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • ranger? on Jul 28, 2016 at 1:04 pm

    ranger 3.2 wildcat 6-12 months waiting list, better get this bt50 with nicer facelift as cx9…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Gonggok on Jul 28, 2016 at 2:41 pm

    hilux still king… just regained top seller position in thailand. New version of hilux also sitting top in Malaysian market, selling about 2000 units every month.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 7
  • Lifestyle automatic pickups. Hardly any toughness or muscle nowadays. Lift an Alphard and replace last row of seats with a bucket and you get about the same thing

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 1
  • bukapintubayartol on Jul 28, 2016 at 6:50 pm

    Is Mazda making a mistake? Ford have come a long way and their Ranger is a real sweet truck with a smooth(ish) 5-Cylinder engine

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
 

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