Mazda has unveiled a new engine option for the 2026 BT-50 ute, just hours after the same update was officially confirmed for its mechanical twin, the Isuzu D-Max. The fresh addition is a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine that replaces the smaller 1.9-litre motor previously offered in entry-level trims. The upgrade brings not only an increase in power but also greater fuel efficiency, helping the BT-50 remain competitive in Australia’s busy ute segment.
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As part of the broader update, BT-50 prices have risen by between $450 and $1450 across the range. Alongside the new 2.2-litre option, Mazda has introduced fuel-saving stop-start technology to the existing 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine, which cuts fuel use by shutting the engine off at standstill moments, such as traffic lights.
The 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel produces 120kW of power and 400Nm of torque, an improvement over the outgoing 1.9-litre unit’s 110kW and 350Nm. It also gains an eight-speed automatic transmission, replacing the older six-speed, to deliver smoother performance. Official fuel consumption figures range between 6.3 and 7.1 litres per 100 kilometres, though most of these variants are new to the line-up. The only direct replacement is the single-cab chassis 4x2, which sees just a slight 0.1L/100km improvement in efficiency compared with the old 1.9-litre version.
More noticeable efficiency gains come from the revised 3.0-litre turbo-diesel with stop-start technology. This feature helps lower claimed fuel consumption by between 0.2 and 0.9L/100km, while also reducing CO2 emissions by 3g/km to 20g/km depending on the model. Meanwhile, the new 2.2-litre option cuts emissions by about 1g/km compared with the 1.9-litre it replaces.
Mazda is offering the new 2.2-litre engine exclusively in the entry-level XS grade. Buyers will be able to choose from several configurations, including single-cab chassis 4x2, dual-cab chassis 4x4, and dual-cab pick-up in both 4x2 and 4x4 layouts. These models are priced around $2500 less than equivalent XT variants equipped with the larger 3.0-litre engine, making them an attractive entry point for budget-conscious customers.
Despite being the base grade, the XS still comes with a solid list of standard equipment. Features include LED headlights, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rear-view camera, adaptive cruise control, cloth upholstery, and vinyl flooring for durability. Cab-chassis XS versions ride on steel 17-inch wheels, while the dual-cab pick-up upgrades to alloy wheels—previously reserved for higher XT trims.
Other improvements to the wider BT-50 range include the addition of a factory-fitted towbar on XTR and GT 4x4 dual-cab chassis models, enhancing practicality for towing and work duties.
The refreshed 2026 Mazda BT-50 is scheduled to arrive in Australian showrooms from next month. Interestingly, despite its 2026 label, the model will officially be registered as a 2025 vehicle, as the calendar year still has several months to run.