Mazda has expanded the BT-50 lineup in Australia with two new trims: the adventure-oriented Thunder and the value-focused Boss. Both get the 3.0-liter turbodiesel and 4x4 as standard.
The 3.0-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel produces 187 hp (140 kW) and 450 Nm, paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic. Lower trims continue with the 2.2-liter unit at 161 hp (120 kW) and 400 Nm through an eight-speed auto. Neither engine is new, but the packaging around them is.
Thunder: The Overlander
The Thunder sits on the GT trim and adds a single-hoop steel bull bar fitted with Lightforce Beast LED driving lights, a steel sports bar, a manual roller tonneau cover, and Thunder lettering decals. Integrated flared wheel arches are available as accessories but don't come standard, which feels like a missed opportunity at AU$78,400 (roughly US$55,300).
For context, that's AU$1,486 more than a Toyota Hilux Rugged X. Optional accessories include a triple-hoop bull bar, 18-inch alloys, a snorkel, an LED lightbar, and a roof rack.
Boss: Black Accents, Smaller Bill
The Boss builds on the XT dual-cab 4x4 grade and focuses on aesthetics: gloss black door handles, mirror caps, grille, and a black steel sports bar. A tub liner and side steps come standard. At AU$60,220 (US$42,500), it costs AU$2,500 more than the base XT, which is a modest premium for the visual upgrade.
The Bigger Picture
The current-generation BT-50 launched in 2020 sharing its platform with the Isuzu D-Max, and received a mid-cycle refresh in October 2024. The 2.2-liter engine arrived in Australian showrooms in September 2025. Mazda Australia's managing director has indicated diesel still has a long-term role in the lineup. No electrified BT-50 is on the horizon.
Entry-level pricing starts at AU$38,400 (US$27,100) for a single-cab XS with the 2.2L diesel in RWD form.