While Mazda is often associated with the MX-5 Miata and rotary engines, the Japanese company has a rich history with trucks. In fact, the first Mazda-badged vehicle, introduced in 1931, was a three-wheeled open truck named the Mazda-Go. The company's initial passenger car, the R360, also spawned a truck variant when the K360 was released in the 1960s. Over the years, numerous pickups have followed, and in 2024, the BT-50 continues this legacy. As a successor to the B series trucks sold between 1961 and 2006, the BT-50 initially shared its platform with the Ford Ranger for its first two generations. However, when the third-gen model debuted in 2020, Mazda transitioned to using the Isuzu D-Max's underpinnings. Now, roughly a year after the donor vehicle received its own updates, the midsize pickup is undergoing a facelift. Despite the large winged logo being somewhat excessive, it remains a striking workhorse. The 2025 Mazda BT-50 features updated headlights with an LED daytime running light signature reminiscent of the CX-5. The grille now sports a different pattern, combining octagons with larger hexagons, and includes a colored trim piece, a common design element among Mazdas. The front bumper has been revised to incorporate an air curtain for improved aerodynamics and reduced fuel consumption. At the rear, the logo has been enlarged once more, accompanied by fresh taillight graphics and a redesigned bumper with a ridged lower section. Additional exterior updates include newly designed alloy wheels and a variety of color options, such as Red Earth Metallic. Inside, the vehicle boasts a new 9-inch infotainment system with touch-sensitive shortcut keys flanking the tune and volume knobs. The row of physical switches below remains unchanged, as does the separate small display for HVAC information. The digital driver’s display now measures 7 inches and can show off-road information previously only available on the center screen, including drive mode/diff lock status, steering and tilt angles, tire pressure monitoring system, and the Rough Terrain Mode. Wireless Android Auto is a new addition for 2025, complementing the existing wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity. A USB port for a dashcam has been added next to the rearview mirror. Other enhancements include Traffic Jam Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Brake, adaptive cruise control with traffic sign recognition, and new front stereo cameras that double the field of view. The rear camera now features a hydrophobic coating to stay cleaner. When referring to Mazda, one is essentially talking about Isuzu, as both the BT-50 and D-Max are produced together in Thailand at Isuzu's factory. In Australia, the BT-50 is available in single, extended, and dual cab configurations, with both rear- and four-wheel-drive options. Power is provided by a 3.0-liter, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, delivering 188 horsepower and 332 pound-feet (450 Newton-meters) of torque. In certain markets, a smaller 1.9-liter diesel engine with 148 hp and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) is also offered. Depending on the region and engine choice, both six-speed manual and automatic transmissions are available.