• Three trim levels will be available with either a 1.9-litre diesel or 3.0-litre engine.
• The bakkie launched internationally in June 2020.
• Its live local online reveal takes place on 15 July on Mazda's Facebook and YouTube platforms.
• For more motoring stories, visit Wheels24.
South Africa's bakkie market will welcome a new challenger this year in the form of Mazda's new BT-50.
The bakkie first went on sale in 2006, with the latest model - inspired by Mazda's Kodo Soul of Motion design language - ready to give the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger a stern test. Of course local Hilux sales figures are nearly impossible to beat, so too will the popular Ford Ranger, but the new BT-50 does open up another alternative for bakkie buyers.
Local customers can choose from a range of three derivatives - Active, Dynamic and Individual. The Active model features a new 1.9-litre diesel engine paired to an automatic or manual transmission, producing 110kW and 350Nm.
Both Dynamic and Individual models feature a 3.0-litre unit coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission generating 140kW and 450Nm. The Individual is available in 4x4, while the rest of the models come standard with a 4x2 configuration.
Re-imagined and re-built
The BT-50 comes standard with an MZD Connect Infotainment System, a seven or nine-inch display screen, Apple Carplay and Android Auto, reverse camera, parking sensors, LED headlights, Hill Launch Assist, Hill Descent Control, Trailer Sway Mitigation, a total of seven airbags and cruise control.
READ: Mazda's new SA-bound BT-50 bakkie has the Hilux and Ranger firmly in its crosshairs
Craig Roberts, MD of Mazda Southern Africa, says: "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."
It comes standard with a three-year unlimited kilometre service plan, three-year unlimited-kilometre warranty and three-year unlimited Roadside Assistance.
The bakkie's live online reveal takes place on 15 July on the automaker's Facebook and YouTube platforms.
