Mazda Australia has teamed with the local arm of Alpine Electronics to co-develop a new Alpine-branded satellite navigation infotainment system for the rugged Mazda BT-50.

Offered as standard equipment on XTR and GT grades, the larger 8-inch high-resolution colour touch screen now includes a fully integrated reverse camera and an improved sat-nav system that also features point-to-point four-wheel drive off-road navigation with 3D digital terrain.

For the first time in a BT-50, the infotainment system has split screen capabilities - allowing both audio and navigation content to be viewed at the same time - and displays HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) information, while incoming mobile calls can be answered via the steering wheel controls.

Video enabled - connected via USB or HDMI cable - passengers will be able to watch their favourite pre-loaded television shows and movies while the vehicle is stationary, as well as play MP3, WMA, AAC or FLAC audio and MP4 and MKV video files. Also, the HDMI input replicates shows being watched via streaming services (Netflix/Stan/Foxtel) or on portable DVD players and tablets within the vehicle.

Including DAB+ digital radio – with improved audio quality from the four 50 watt amplifiers -  the system also offers standard live traffic updates through the Radio Data System (RDA), hands-free phone functions are voice controlled via Bluetooth, and the dashboard now includes more accessible USB, HDMI and 3.5mm AUX ports.

"Alpine has taken the BT-50's infotainment system to a new level of functionality, performance and quality," said Mazda Australia marketing director Alastair Doak.

"The reverse camera is now positioned within the screen itself, the sat nav is improved, and the system allows passengers to watch their favourite shows via the larger 8-inch screen.

"Mazda BT-50s new information and entertainment hub can be used and enjoyed by everyone within the vehicle."

The updated Alpine badged sat-nav infotainment system is available on Mazda BT-50 XTR and GT models from June production.