Image: Mazda
Image: Mazda
Image: Mazda
NewsBy: Siyavuya Mbaduli
The Mazda BT-50 has been given a significant upgrade with two new accessory packs for buyers wanting an even more capable bakkie. Unfortunately, these rugged-looking modifications are only reserved for the Australian market.
Image: Mazda
First up is the Thunder Pro pack, which builds upon the already formidable Thunder trim. The standard Thunder model boasts features such as an off-road bumper, bullbar, 18-inch alloy wheels, lightbar, and fender flares. The Thunder Pro pack takes it even further by adding a snorkel for improved water-wading capabilities, additional Lightforce LEDs with exceptional illumination up to 1,1 km, and stylish side decals.
To ensure exceptional off-road performance, the Thunder Pro is equipped with an Old Man Emu BP-51 suspension system. This suspension, designed for medium-load use, features nitrogen-filled dampers with a remote reservoir. It also offers manual adjustability for compression and rebound, allowing drivers to tailor their driving experience based on specific conditions.
Image: Mazda
For those seeking a sportier appearance and enhanced off-road prowess, there’s the SP Pro pack. Based on the SP trim, this pack adds a set of 18-inch wheels, an integrated Lightforce LED lightbar within the grille that provides impressive illumination up to 569 meters, and eye-catching side decals. The chassis receives an upgrade as well, with a Nitrocharger suspension system that includes upgraded springs, twin-tube shock absorbers, and a lift kit offering up to 2 inches (50 mm) of increased ground clearance.
Under the bonnet, the Mazda BT-50 shares its powertrain options with the Isuzu D-Max. There are two turbodiesel engine choices: a 1,9-litre variant delivering 110 kW of power and 350 N.m of torque and a 3,0-litre option generating 140 kW and 450 N.m of torque. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox and feature a capable 4WD system, ensuring power is efficiently distributed to all four wheels.
Image: Mazda
Related: Tough as nails; the fully redesigned Mazda BT-50
These upgrade packs are reserved exclusively for the Australian market, with Mazda South Africa confirming bakkie enthusiasts locally won’t be able to spec their BT-50s with these modifications at the dealership. Should it be something the automaker considers to improve sales of the bakkie?
Keyword: Mazda BT-50 is now being offered with two new accessory packs