AIMS: Mazda BT-50 Freestyle Cab

The all-new Mazda BT-50 Freestyle Cab utility has made its global debut at the Australian International Motor Show in Melbourne today.

Featuring the same door configuration as RX-8 and previous BT-50 Freestyle Cab, the new model offers seating for four via a 1408mm-wide opening. Rear seat comfort in the new model is also said to be improved thanks to deeper squab cushions and an increase in height of the backrest.

The new BT-50 Freestyle Cab model also boasts greater carrying capacity over its predecessor, the cargo box sidewalls raised, the tray also widened and lengthened. The changes give the new ute a 266-litre advantage against the outgoing model, now able to hold a total of 1453 litres.

It's not only the tray that grows, either. The new Mazda BT-50 Freestyle Cab growing in height by 84mm (now 1706mm), in width by 135mm (now 1805mm) and in length by 204mm to 5373mm. These changes have also seen the wheelbase extended by 220mm.

Inside, cabin space also grows with all dimensions seeing a significant increase over the previous model. Both driver and front passenger seats offer the same, extensive levels of adjustment, both pews now also offering fore-aft travel of 260mm (up 20mm).

Under the bonnet BT-50 models are powered by a new 3.2-litre, five-cylinder turbodiesel engine developing a total output figure of 147kW/470Nm.
Mazda says these figures represent a 28 per cent increase in power and 24 per cent rise in torque against the current 3.0-litre mill. Mated to a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions the new BT-50 will boast a braked towing capacity of 3500kg.

"Just as we were delighted to be given the privilege of hosting the global debut of the all-new BT-50 Dual Cab in Sydney last year, we are equally delighted to be hosting the global debut of the Freestyle Cab in Melbourne this year," announced Mazda Australia's managing director, Doug Dickson.

"With Australia expected to be the largest market for the all-new BT-50 it's no coincidence that we've been asked to host not one but two global unveilings of this important new model. It's only appropriate that the Australian public see it first."

The all-new Mazda BT-50 will be launched in Australia late in Q4 of this year.

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