Busted: first rendering of new Mazda BT-50

The first official rendering of Mazda's new BT-50 has hit the net today, the next-generation workhorse sporting an all-new front end, familiar to that seen on the popular mid-size Mazda6 passenger car.

It's believed that Mazda will again use the BT-50 name for its latest commercial offering, and that the new-look will clearly differentiate it from its stablemate, the upcoming Ford T6 Ranger.

While engine configurations are yet to be officially confirmed, it is believed the 2011 Mazda BT-50 will offer at least two diesel-powered units, most likely the 2.2- and 3.2-litre Durtaorq TDCI common-rail turbodiesel.

The new BT-50 is also rumoured to sport at least one direct injection petrol engine, possibly the 2.0-litre mill that is set to feature in the all-new EcoBoost Falcon from 2012, and one normally-aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder.

Co-developed with Ford Australia, the new Mazda BT-50 will grow in size to be nearer to HiLux and Navara in proportion, and is also said to be wider than the current 1.7-metre variant (the measurement a result of strict Japanese width restrictions).

BT-50 reportedly features a full chassis with leaf-sprung rear end to meet the work expectations of this type of vehicle worldwide.

The all-new Mazda BT-50 will have its media debut in Sydney on Tuesday, October 12 and will be formally unveiled at the show open on Friday, October 15.

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