TOKYO: Mazda has confirmed that the Freestyle Cab version of its BT-50 utility will make its global debut at the upcoming Australian International Motor Show to be held in Melbourne on July 1-10.
Using the so-called Freestyle door configuration first seen on the RX-8, the BT-50 Freestyle Cab offers a unique combination of seating for four, a wide pillar-less door opening, and a large carrying capacity.
On each side of the cabin, a front-hinged door and a rear access panel combine to provide a 1,408mm-wide opening that makes for easy entry to and exit from either the front or rear seats.
In the rear seats, cushions have been lengthened by 50mm for better thigh support and more stable fitment of child seats while the seatback height has been increased by 128mm.
The rear seat cushions can be removed and with the rear access panels opening to an angle of nearly 90 degrees, the option of loading and storing cargo into the rear seating area of the cab should be much easier.
The cargo tub has increased in width, length and height resulting in an overall cargo volume of 1,453 litres. This is an increase of 266 litres over the equivalent current model.
The new BT-50 will go on sale later this year.
Meanwhile, those who prefer the suicide door-type trucks can check out the Nissan Navara King Cab, which has just gone on sale in Malaysia.
Nissan is the first to introduce this version in the local market, and it caters to those looking for in-cabin and rear cargo storage.
Local distributor Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd is selling the limited edition King Cab for RM82,800.