The refreshed Mazda BT-50 makes its way to SA
Mazda South Africa has officially announced the launch of their all-new BT-50. The Mazda BT-50 will be entering its third generation and has been fully redesigned. Mazda’s Kodo design has come a long way and will give the BT-50 bakkie a new form of elegance. The prominent Kodo-designed grille will come featured at the front, with the 3-dimensional signature wing extending out towards the side. The headlights design will be more distinctive and sharper than before, Mazda’s way of incorporating cues from its SUV range. The BT-50’s new design is set to bring a sense of toughness and appeal, embodying Mazda’s desire to enrich the lives of its consumers.
The BT-50’s line-up will comprise of three models: Active, Dynamic, and Individual. The Active model will be powered by a brand new 1.9-litre diesel engine the produces an output of 121kW of power and 213Nm of torque, it gets paired with either an automatic or manual gearbox. Both the Dynamic and Individual models on the other hand will be powered by a new 3.0-litre engine that produces 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque, both get paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The Individual models will be available with a 4x4 drivetrain, while the others all get a 4x2 drivetrain.
Inside, everything from the dashboard, steering wheel, seats, and centre console have all been redesigned, with the goal of creating a comfortable SUV feel. The BT-50 will come with high-level standard features such as the latest MZD Connect Infotainment System, a 7 or 9-inch display, Apple Carplay and Android Auto, a Reverse camera, Parking sensors, LED headlamps, Hill Launch Assist, Hill Descent Control, Trailer Sway Mitigation, 7 airbags, and Cruise Control.
Craig Roberts, MD of Mazda Southern Africa, added “We could not be prouder or more excited to launch the All-New BT-50 in Southern Africa now. The vehicle has a long history locally, and internationally. It has been re-imagined and re-built from the ground up, with all the utilitarian value of a double-cab bakkie, and all the comfort and technology expected of an SUV. We are confident it will be met with enthusiasm by our customers and media alike, as a true stand-out and another bold reflection on our Japanese Heritage.”
The BT-50 will come with Mazda Care, which consists of a standard 3-Year Unlimited Kilometre Mazda Service Plan, 3-Year Unlimited Kilometre Mazda Warranty, and a 3-Year Unlimited Roadside Assistance.
The full reveal of the Mazda BT-50 can be streamed online on the 15th of July, on either Mazda’s Facebook or YouTube platforms.
Also worth a look: the Mazda Gives the CX-3 a Tech and Style Boost for 2026 and the Mazda Cx 60.
FAQ
Q: What does the new Mazda BT-50 cost in South Africa?
The refreshed Mazda BT-50 starts from around R580,000 for the base Active model with the 1.9-litre diesel engine, while the top-spec Individual 4x4 with the 3.0-litre engine will set you back approximately R750,000.
Q: What engines are available in the new Mazda BT-50?
The BT-50 comes with two diesel options: a 1.9-litre engine producing 121kW and 213Nm in the Active model, or a beefier 3.0-litre unit churning out 140kW and 450Nm in the Dynamic and Individual variants.
Q: Is the Mazda BT-50 available in 4x4?
Yes, but only the top Individual model gets the 4x4 drivetrain paired with the 3.0-litre engine, while the Active and Dynamic models stick with 4x2 setups.
Q: What technology features does the new BT-50 include?
The BT-50 comes loaded with MZD Connect infotainment, a 7 or 9-inch display depending on the model, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, reverse camera, parking sensors, LED headlamps, and a full suite of safety features including 7 airbags.
Should You Buy It?
The refreshed Mazda BT-50 is definitely worth considering if you're after a bakkie that doesn't feel like a farm implement. Starting at around R580,000, the BT-50 brings genuine SUV comfort to the double-cab segment with its completely redesigned interior and Kodo styling that actually looks the part. The 3.0-litre engine in the higher models delivers a solid 140kW and 450Nm, making it competitive with the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux, while the build quality and tech features are genuinely impressive. However, if you're doing serious off-roading or heavy towing, the Hilux and Ranger still edge ahead on proven durability. For most buyers wanting a stylish, comfortable bakkie for weekend adventures and daily driving, the BT-50 represents excellent value, especially in Dynamic trim around R650,000.
