MAZDA

The Mazda BT-50 will get a new generation by 2028

The Mazda BT-50 remains a key model for the Japanese automaker. Increased competition in the mid-size pickup segment has prompted Mazda to consider developing a new generation, expected to arrive within the next few years.

Australian journalists spoke with Vinesh Bhindi, Managing Director of Mazda Australia, who confirmed that a new generation of the BT-50 is under development. While he did not disclose technical specifications, he confirmed that the vehicle would likely hit the road around 2028.

Eiji Kimoto, Mazda’s chief designer—who was responsible for the styling of the current BT-50—said of the upcoming pickup: "I’m not allowed to say much about the future product, but I can tell you this: look forward to it."

The next-generation BT-50 will likely be the result of a partnership as well. After all, the first two generations were developed in collaboration with Ford, while the third switched to the Isuzu platform, notes Carscoops. Mazda could continue its partnership with Isuzu and develop a new model alongside the next-generation D-Max. Another option is expanding cooperation with the Chinese manufacturer Changan, following projects to develop the 6e sedan and CX-6e SUV. Changan already offers a pickup called the Hunter K50, which utilizes a range-extender powertrain.

In any case, the next-generation BT-50 is expected to adopt the brand's updated design language. Mazda is also expected to equip its pickup with an upscale interior, aligning with its aim to position its entire lineup within the premium segment.

Back in 2025, the head of Mazda’s Australian division stated that there would be no fully electric version of the BT-50 in the foreseeable future, despite the availability of the related Isuzu D-Max EV. He also did not view plug-in hybrid (PHEV) pickups as a threat, adding that diesel engines would likely remain part of the lineup. However, the local executive noted that he would let the market determine whether there is demand for electrified pickups before considering available options. It can be inferred that Mazda might offer certain electrified powertrain options for the next-generation BT-50. If they maintain their partnership with Isuzu, they will likely use a mild-hybrid diesel system, whereas a collaboration with Changan would probably result in a range-extender option. This would enable the pickup truck to meet market demand while complying with increasingly strict environmental regulations and potentially expanding its market presence.

In Australia, Mazda has confirmed plans to release the next generation of the BT-50 pickup. Mazda Australia Managing Director Vinesh Bhindi answered affirmatively in an interview with CarsGuide when asked whether the company needs this model in an increasingly segmented pickup market and whether a new version will appear.

The current Mazda BT-50 was launched in 2020. It is technically related to the Isuzu D-Max, although it has Mazda’s own styling. The previous generation of the model was based on the Ford Ranger.

Mazda has previously stated that it does not develop pickups entirely on its own. Therefore, the most likely option for the next BT-50 is a continuation of the partnership with Isuzu. In that case, the model could be technically close to the new-generation D-Max, which is expected around the same time. At the same time, the company has not yet officially disclosed the technical specifications of the future BT-50.

The third-generation Mazda BT-50 was introduced in 2020, with a model refresh following in late 2024. Based on the Isuzu D-Max architecture, the model features Mazda’s signature design—both inside and out—and is currently offered exclusively with turbo-diesel engines, without any form of electrification.

Diesel focus at launch...Mazda chief designer Eiji Kimoto, who worked on the current BT-50 and is involved in creating its successor, did not provide design details. When asked whether the new model would differ significantly from the current one, he declined to clarify and suggested waiting for future announcements.

The third generation of the Mazda BT-50 was introduced in 2020, with a mid-lifecycle update following in late 2024. The model is based on the ladder-frame underpinnings of the Isuzu D-Max, with Mazda-specific styling inside-out and is currently offered with non-electrified turbodiesel powertrain options.

Our colleagues at CarsGuide spoke to Vinesh Bhindi, Mazda Australia’s managing director, who confirmed that a new generation of the BT-50 is under development. The high-ranking official didn’t get into details about the specifications, but confirmed it will likely hit the road around 2028.

The same publication spoke to Eiji Kimoto, Mazda’s chief designer, who was responsible for the styling of the current BT-50. When asked about the upcoming pickup, Kimoto said: “I am not allowed to speak much about the future product, but I can tell you, please look forward to it”.

Since Mazda doesn’t have enough R&D resources to develop a pickup on its own, the next BT-50 will likely be the result of a partnership. After all, the first two generations were paired with the Ford Ranger, while the third one migrated to the Isuzu platform.

Mazda could continue the partnership with Isuzu, developing the new model alongside the new generation of the D-Max. Another option would be to broaden its collaboration with Chinese automaker Changan, following the 6e sedan and CX-6e SUV projects.

Changan already offers a pickup in the form of the Hunter K50 with a revolutionary range-extender powertrain. However, this one is based on the ladder-frame chassis of the diesel-powered Changan Hunter which has already spawned several siblings from Stellantis brands in South America including the Peugeot Landtrek, the Fiat Titano, the Ram 1200, and Ram Dakota.

In any case, the next Mazda BT-50 is expected to adopt the brand’s updated styling language with sharp LEDs and sculpted details. In our speculative rendering we used the proportions of the Isuzu D-Max as a base, infusing elements from the Mazda CX-6e alongside wide fender extensions and a rear canopy.

We also expect Mazda to give its truck a more premium interior, in line with the upmarket move of its entire lineup. This could help the next BT-50 stand out in a crowded segment, targeting a specific kind of buyer. As with most midsize pickups in Australia, the model could continue offering rugged trims like the Thunder alongside a selection of optional accessories for off-road enthusiasts.

Bring serious grunt, backed up by a powerful turbo diesel engine, delivering up to 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque. The BT-50 can tow up to 3.5 tonnes and hold up under heavy loads in the roughest conditions. For those who demand reliability, it's ready to go when you are.

Back in 2025, the Mazda Australia boss said there won’t be a fully electric variant of the BT-50 in the foreseeable future, despite the availability of the closely-related Isuzu D-Max EV. He also didn’t perceive PHEV pickups as a threat, adding that diesel powertrains will probably stick around. Still, the local Managing Director admitted they will let the market pinpoint if there’s demand for electrified trucks and consider the options.

Reading between the lines, Mazda could offer some sort of electrified powertrain options for the next BT-50. If it sticks to the partnership with Isuzu they will likely use a mild-hybrid diesel, while the Changan route would probably result in a range-extender option. That would allow the pickup to fulfil market demand while complying with tightening emission regulations and potentially expanding its scope to markets outside Australia.

Motor1 also points to the possibility of using technologies from China’s Changan, with which Mazda cooperates and from which it receives the Mazda 6e and CX-6e models. A potential basis could be the Changan Hunter K50 — an all-wheel-drive range-extended hybrid with a 31 kWh battery and two electric motors. However, Mazda Australia stresses that the BT-50 will continue to target traditional buyers for whom towing, hauling cargo, and off-road driving are important.

The most likely powertrain option at the launch of the new generation remains a diesel engine. The company does not rule out electrification in the future, but it has no immediate plans for an electric or plug-in hybrid BT-50. The next model is expected to appear in 2028.

by: Autonews