2022 Mazda BT-50 arrives early

Following closely behind its Isuzu D-MAX twin-under-the-skin, the upgraded 2022 Mazda BT-50 range has started arriving in Aussie dealerships six to seven weeks ahead of schedule.

Originally due in late January, Mazda says BT-50 availability and wait times are “returning to pre-pandemic levels” after months of COVID-inflicted production delays.

The latest production blitz at the ute’s manufacturing base in Thailand has in some cases more than halved the waiting times for Australian customers, according to anecdotal evidence we obtained from a number of dealerships.

And Mazda has told carsales that the supply of other model lines is now looking better, too.

“We are thrilled to have BT-50 in supply and other model lines are returning to normal to fulfill both existing customer orders and future orders,” said a Mazda Australia spokesperson.

“BT-50 orders are looking healthy; especially with the introduction of even more variety across the range, BT-50 is able to give customers a diverse and comprehensive product offering.”

As previously reported, the MY22 Mazda BT-50 line-up brings with it a series of new additions including a new entry-level 1.9-litre turbo-diesel engine and sports-themed SP model grade above the luxury-appointed GT but beneath the more rugged Thunder.

The addition of the 1.9-litre engine follows in the footsteps of the 2022 Isuzu D-MAX line-up, while the introduction of the SP provides Mazda with a direct alternative to the D-MAX X-Terrain.

The revised line-up also elevates the Mazda BT-50 Thunder to compete on closer terms with the Toyota HiLux Rugged X, Nissan Navara PRO-4X Warrior and other similar flagship 4x4 dual-cab utes.

At this stage, however, there are still no plans from Mazda to offer up a genuine juiced-up Ford Ranger Raptor rival.

“The BT-50 SP and BT-50 Thunder will appeal to those looking for a higher specced package with a bolder and more aggressive aesthetic whilst still being able to perform with towing capacity, payload and off-roading,” the spokesperson said.

While a dedicated and purpose-built hero ute continues to remain off the cards for now, Mazda says the addition of the 1.9-litre powerplant and dolled-up SP allow it to “meet all of” its “customers’ individual needs”.

“The expansion of the BT-50 range with the introduction of the 1.9-litre and BT-50 SP allows us to provide access through a cheaper price point for fleet buyers with the 1.9L, and allows us to elevate the Mazda offering for others with the BT-50 SP,” the spokesperson said.

The new downsized engine produces 110kW/350Nm and is mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission in the XS trim level – the only grade it’s available in – with the combination able to tow up to 3000kg (braked).

The SP, meanwhile, builds on the GT’s luxuriousness with a series of black cosmetic enhancements and a lockable roller shutter for the tub.

According to Mazda Australia marketing director Alastair Doak, the brand is “well placed to meet demand for new cars into 2022”, including the facelifted Mazda CX-5 SUV and tweaked Mazda MX-5 sports car, both of which are due early next year.

“We’re looking forward to a bigger 2022 … with good supply on all model lines helping us deliver new vehicles to customers sooner,” he said.