2022 Mazda BT-50 to go head to head with Toyota Hilux, Mitsubishi Strada

When it was first launched in the Philippines, the Mazda BT-50 wasn't one of the brand's biggest sellers. While capable, it isn't first model that comes mind. Nor is it the second, or even third choice that comes to most people's shortlist. One could say that its close ties to the Ford Ranger might have affected its sales and didn't offer much distinction from its twin.

But Mazda has severed its ties with Ford, meaning the all-new BT-50 is no longer based on the Ranger. Now, Mazda's pick-up shares its platform with the third-generation Isuzu D-Max. The company has just launched that model in the Philippines, and they're promising a more premium experience than its rivals in pick-up truck segment.

Mazda has changed the formula for their pick-up this time around. Instead of just giving it a small nip and tuck to the body, the Japanese automaker chose to change a lot of the pick-up's sheetmetal. For instance, the front end shares almost no relation with the model it was based on. The shape of the hood, fenders, and front bumper are unique to this model. Mazda also managed to apply their design philosophy in a more cohesive way. It could even be said it will be difficult to tell it is based on an Isuzu.

Even the bed of the BT-50 is a little different from the D-Max. Most noticably, the tailgate isn't just lifted from the Isuzu version. There are various wheel designs available, depending on the variant chosen. That said, the doors appear straight from the D-Max.

Let's talk features. The 2022 BT-50 is available with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. Philippine models also get wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A bedliner is standard on all variants, along with cruise control, LED headlights

The first 200 customers will come free with a bed roller to keep precious cargo away from prying eyes. They are also get a front scuff plate and thicker body claddings. It's worth noting that the Philippines is one of the first countries to get the BT-50 in left-hand drive.

There are three variants available for the 2022 Mazda BT-50. These are their prices:

4x2 MT: 1,390,000

4x2 A/T: 1,430,000

4x4 A/T: 1,790,000

Regardless of the model chosen, all will use the 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine shared with Isuzu. This diesel puts out 190 PS and 450 Nm of torque. The 1.9-liter is not offered in the country. Per Steven Tan, President and CEO of Mazda Philippines, the 3.0-liter is a better fit for the Philippine market. He also noted that the cost between the 1.9 and 3.0 is not that large, hence the decision to go for the 3.0-liter.

The BT-50 also comes with five-Year Free Service Plan that also includes models sold from April 2020 onward. It covers the expenses of periodic maintenance at either 6-month or 10,000-kilometer intervals, for up to 5 years or 100,000 kilometers, whichever comes first.

But if you're curious about the outgoing model, second-hand Mazda BT-50 models can go for as low as the PHP 500,000 range. About PHP 750,000 can also get you a newer model with the facelifted look and an automatic transmission.