Mazda refines BT-50 diesels for NVES gains

MAZDA has revised its BT-50 ute offer in Australia, with a new 2.2-litre entry-level diesel engine replacing a 1.9-litre while fuel-saving technology has been added to the venerable 3.0-litre powertrain.

The changes come as Mazda seeks incremental efficiency gains under the federal government’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), which levies penalties on car manufacturers that fail to offset sales of high-CO2 vehicles (such as diesel utes) with sales of electric and hybrid vehicles.

At the entry point to the BT-50 line-up, a new 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine replaces the discontinued 1.9-litre. Output rises by 10kW/50Nm to 120kW/400Nm while the engine pairs to a new eight-speed torque converter automatic.

The switch should improve driveability while very modestly reducing fuel consumption, with the XS single cab-chassis variant now rated to use 6.9L/100km (-0.1L/100km and -1g/km).

While seemingly minor, the upgrade keeps the BT-50 clear of the NVES light commercial vehicle target of 210g/km for 2025, though this tightens to 180g/km in 2026.

At the same time, the established 3.0-litre four cylinder (producing 140kW/450Nm) has been fitted with an idle start-stop system. Official fuel consumption improves by up to 0.9L/100km, equating to a more significant reduction of 20g/km CO2.

In percentage terms, fuel use is down by as much as 11 per cent despite the fact the 3.0-litre engine retains its six-speed automatic transmission. Both engines are supplied by Isuzu, and both re-offered in either 4x2 or on-demand 4x4 drivelines.

The adjusted engine options come at a cost, with list prices climbing by between $450 and $1500 depending on grade, though Mazda has also reintroduced three XS variants that broaden the entry-level offering to include double cab-chassis and double-cab pick-up versions.

Only the XS trim (priced from $37,900 plus on-road costs) is available with the new 2.2-litre engine. Standard specification includes 17-inch steel wheels, LED headlights, an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, DAB+ radio, AEB, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring.

From tier-two XT upwards, only the 3.0-litre diesel is available. The XT grade (from $40,400 plus ORCs) introduces 17-inch black alloy wheels, while pick-up formats gain a reversing camera. An extended cab known as Freestyle is also offered from this level.

The mid-tier XTR, priced from $54,240 + ORCs, brings additional features including dual-zone climate control, a 9.0-inch touchscreen with integrated satellite navigation, keyless entry, folding exterior mirrors, side steps, a leather steering wheel and gear selector, and a standard tow bar.

For $64,520 + on-road costs, GT spec’ adds genuine leather, heated front seats, eight-way power driver’s seat, remote engine start, heated mirrors and front parking sensors while the flagship SP variant, available solely as a dual cab pick-up at $71,950 plus ORCs, distinguishes itself with a black pack, sailplane, roller tonneau cover, and black/tan seating.

The BT-50 update comes as Mazda seeks to improve the ute’s compliance position under NVES. Small efficiency gains on high-volume vehicles such as pick-ups can make a significant difference to the corporate NVES average.

Looking forward, Mazda and Isuzu are understood to be investigating hybrid options for the BT-50 and D-Max in response to tightening regulations.

Isuzu is preparing to introduce an all-electric 4x4 D-Max with a 1000kg payload and 3500kg towing capacity, although range will be limited to about 260km due to battery size constraints. Mazda is not expected to pursue a rebadged version of this BEV D-Max for the BT-50.

The BT-50 remains the sixth best-selling ute in Australia this year with 10,115 deliveries to the end of August, split between 2104 4x2 and 8011 4x4 sales. Its Isuzu D-Max cousin has recorded 18,730 units over the same period. 

2025 Mazda BT-50 pricing*: