2025 Mazda BT-50 facelift launched in Thailand – 2.2L MaxForce engine, new face, digital meters, fr RM98k

Revealed to the world in October, the facelifted Mazda BT-50 was launched at the recent Thai Motor Expo. This is the second revision for the Isuzu D-Max-based pick-up truck, receiving some of the recent updates that were also given to its close relation.

The BT-50 is available in Freestyle and double cab versions respectively, with prices ranging from 762,000 baht (RM98,100) to 1,352,000 baht (RM174,100). The base FSC 2.2 XS Hi-Racer and DBL 2.2 XT Hi-Racer are powered by Isuzu’s new 2.2 litre RZ4F-TC Ddi MaxForce four-cylinder turbodiesel that was just added to the D-Max, replacing the 1.9 litre RZ4E-TC Ddi BluePower mill.

Outputs are rated at 163 PS at 3,600 rpm and 400 Nm of torque from 1,600 to 2,400 rpm, increases of 13 PS and 50 Nm. Also new is an eight-speed Rev Tronic automatic gearbox that provides two extra ratios, although the sole Freestyle cab is only offered with a six-speed manual.

Meanwhile, the range-topping 3.0 XTR Hi-Racer and 4×4 models soldier on with the same 190 PS/450 Nm 3.0 litre 4JJ3-TCX engine and six-speed auto as before, with the 4×4 version obviously gaining a electronic four-wheel-drive system and a locking rear differential.

The BT-50’s second facelift brings with it a far more comprehensive revision to the truck’s design. The new front end features a massive new grille with “dashes” for inserts, along with a thick dark chrome surround that brings to mind the electric EZ-6 sedan. The head- and taillights have also been restyled with L-shaped light signatures, first seen on the facelifted CX-5.

Aerodynamics have been improved through new air curtain inlets at the front bumper corners, reducing fuel consumption. The XTR variants gain a red grille insert, gloss black body cladding, a silver front skid plate and a sports bar. Completing the look are new 18-inch alloy wheels, finished in two-tone on the regular models and full black on the XTR.

Inside, the changes are more subtle, led by the D-Max’s seven-inch digital instrument display that replaces the old 4.2-inch multi-info display, now showing vehicle tilt information. The infotainment system with an eight- or nine-inch touchscreen also now supports wireless Android Auto (Apple CarPlay was already wireless), while at the back, you’ll now find USB-C ports on double cab models.

Ahead of the front passenger sits a new cover for the upper dashboard with six trapezoidal cutouts. The 3.0 XTR models gain new Maztex faux leather and suede upholstery with terracotta highlights and embroidered BT-50 logos.

In terms of driver assists, the BT-50 now comes with blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert with auto brake and a driver attention monitor, joining the existing autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane departure warning and pedal misapplication control. However, these are still only available on the top-spec XTR variants.

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