Mazda PH launches 2023 BT-50 Pangolin 2

Whenever a car company launches a special edition of a particular model, they tend to give it a rather "cool" moniker. They usually name it after their performance division (e.g. GR, Ralliart, NISMO) or use words that imply strength or aggression (e.g. Conquest, Raptor, Athlete).

In the case of Mazda, they choose to go another way. During the opening of their new Bacolod dealership, Mazda Philippines also launched the 2023 BT-50 4x4 Pangolin; the second special edition of the truck named after the humble anteater.

“The Mazda BT-50 brought unrivaled design, comfort, and capability to the popular pickup truck segment when we launched it in November 2021. One year later, it is only appropriate that we mark its anniversary with the return of the BT-50 4x4 Pangolin Edition 2,” says Steven Tan, president and CEO of Mazda Philippines.

Why that mammal? Mazda is working to help raise awareness about that particular critically endangered species and environmental preservation. The gesture also serves as a renewal of their commitment to support the Katala Foundation; a non-stock, non-profit Philippine NGO that is dedicated to helping preserve and protect species that are endemic to the country.

“We have been extremely pleased with how the all-new BT-50 has been received since its launch. After listening to customer feedback, we have created the BT-50 4x4 Pangolin Edition 2 which builds on the BT-50’s core strengths. Like the first BT-50 Pangolin, it is also an acknowledgment of the important role we have in preserving the delicate balance of our environment as we go about our daily lives,” he continued.

As the name states, it is based on the new generation BT-50 pick-up truck but with some neat enhancements. The new model features a modest list of improvements like special 18-inch Rota gloss black alloy wheels with Pangolin-inspired center caps. The extra 10mm of offset means the wheels and tires now are in line with the fender flares. The BT-50 Pangolin 2 also comes with a two-tone fashion bar that gives a sporty accent together with the functionality of the bed that comes standard with a liner and a lockable cover.

Mazda selected the BT-50 4x4 as the exclusive base for the Pangolin 2, meaning it can easily venture out into the great Philippine outdoors with its 3.0L turbodiesel that has 190 PS and a 6-speed automatic with a very capable 4x4 system that has an electronic locking differential, among others. Other important details include the enhanced payload capacity, the more robust ladder frame chassis, the improved suspension, and the tall ground clearance that easily assures 800mm of wading depth, among others.

Each Mazda Pangolin 2 is offered as a special package for the BT-50 4x4 which retails for PHP 1,790,000. The first 100 customers can then upgrade to the Pangolin 2 for PHP 68,000. As with any Mazda, it will come with the extended 5-year free parts, service, and a 3-year bumper-to-bumper warranty.