Mazda BT-50 follows Isuzu D-Max with new turbo-diesel engine

The Mazda BT-50 ute has followed the related Isuzu D-Max ute and MU-X SUV in gaining a new 2.2-litre turbo-diesel, but it’s not yet confirmed for Australia.

Unveiled in Thailand overnight, the BT-50’s 2.2-litre (codenamed RZ4F) engine was announced for the Isuzu models last month as a replacement for the 1.9-litre (RZ4E) turbo-diesel.

While it’s understood the 2.2-litre will replace the 1.9-litre in the BT-50 – as well as in the D-Max and MU-X – these changes have yet to be locked in for Australia by either brand.

A facelift of the Mazda BT-50 is due to arrive in Australia in the first quarter of 2025 (January to March), with pricing and specifications to be announced early in the new year.

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As with the identical engine in the Isuzu models, the BT-50’s new 2.2-litre will produce 120kW and 400Nm – an improvement of 10kW and 50Nm on the 1.9-litre.

It’s still unable to reach the outputs of the 3.0-litre 4J, which develops 140kW and 450Nm, however this is beaten by rivals such as the Toyota HiLux’s available 2.8-litre (150kW and 500Nm) in most variants, and the Ford Ranger’s 2.0-litre bi-turbo (154kW and 500Nm).

The 2.2-litre engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, rather than the six-speed found in both the 1.9- and 3.0-litre powerplants currently in showrooms.

Mazda claims the 2.2-litre delivers unspecified fuel economy improvements, likely due to the greater spread of ratios as well as the higher outputs of the engine meaning it’s not as ‘strained’ as the 1.9-litre.

For context, the 1.9-litre engine in the Australian market BT-50 consumes a claimed 6.7 to 7.0 litres per 100 kilometres (L/100km) depending on the variant.

Thai-market examples can also be ordered with a six-speed manual, though this is unlikely to be sold in Australia.

Mazda’s 2025 BT-50 will arrive in Australia next year with significant design changes – including a larger grille, revised LED headlights, and a new tailgate – improved interior trim and technology, plus upgraded safety systems.

MORE: Everything Mazda BT-50MORE: 2025 Mazda BT-50 gets latest Isuzu D-Max updates, fresher lookMORE: Isuzu D-Max, MU-X’s new small diesel detailed, won’t replace 3.0-litre