First look: More bravado for Mazda B-Series

MAZDA’S next-generation B-Series light truck will again be based on parent company Ford’s Courier utility – and to prove it the Japanese company revealed its tough new one-tonner two days after Ford’s new Courier broke cover last week.

Set to make its world debut alongside Ford’s new Ranger (as the Courier is known in Thailand) at the 2006 Bangkok International Motor Show on March 22, the Bravo’s successor will be labelled the Mazda BT-50.

Revealed on March 9 and to be built in Thailand, Mazda’s new light commercial vehicle also goes on sale here late this year.

"In line with Mazda’s global alphanumeric nomenclature strategy, we have named this new truck range BT-50, a global name that will be used in all markets," said executive officer and general manager of Mazda’s Overseas Sales Division, Malcolm Gough.

"BT-50 recognises the new range's B-Series Truck heritage (BT) and the number 50 reflects that this one-tonne vehicle is optimally positioned between smaller payload trucks (eg: half-tonne) and much larger trucks.

"BT-50 builds on a tradition of Mazda heritage and values. Its aggressive presence, command of the road and powerful new turbo-diesel engines will provide leadership in this competitive truck segment," said Mr Gough.

Mazda says BT-50 marks a greater commitment from mazda to Thailand, which it says is "an important centre of truck and automotive manufacturing for Asia and the world".

No further details accompanied the single image issued by Mazda of its replacement for the still-popular B-Series, which attracted 3844 two-wheel drive customers (for 4.8 per cent of 4x2 pickup segment) and 2258 four-wheel drive buyers (for 3.6 per cent of the 4x4 pickup segment) in 2005.

While BT-50 was shown in four-door dual-cab guise, Ford's Ranger was revealed last week in both single-cab and extra-cab guises (see separate story), indicating all three ute bodystyles will again be offered in the next generation of both models.