A Professional Analysis of the Updated Mazda Scrum Truck

Daily Car

14/02/2026

The market for small commercial vehicles, or kei trucks, is a cornerstone of Japanese industry. Mazda has recently updated its entry in this segment, the Scrum Truck. This analysis examines the key changes, performance, and market position of this compact workhorse.

What are the main updates for the new Mazda Scrum Truck?

The most significant updates are in safety and styling. The Scrum now includes Dual Sensor Brake Support II, a collision mitigation system that uses sensors to detect vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists to help prevent accidents. It also gains front and rear parking sensors and enhanced lane departure warnings. Visually, the front end has been revised with a new grille and slimmer headlights for a more assertive look. A new Moss Gray Metallic paint option is also available. It is important to note that these updates are shared with its mechanically identical siblings, the Suzuki Carry and Nissan Clipper.

Is the Scrum Truck powerful enough for daily work?

Performance should be viewed in the context of its purpose. The Scrum is powered by a 658cc three-cylinder engine producing 50 horsepower and 59 Nm of torque. These figures are not designed for high speed but for efficiency and reliability in dense urban environments and narrow rural lanes. The vehicle's primary function is to move goods, and it has a maximum payload capacity of 350 kg (772 lbs). The engine is tuned to handle this load effectively within its intended operational environment.

What makes it a durable work vehicle?

The Scrum is built on a ladder-frame chassis, the same type of construction used in larger, heavy-duty pickup trucks. This design provides structural rigidity and durability essential for a vehicle that carries weight daily. To enhance its capability in various conditions, the Scrum is offered with either standard rear-wheel drive or an optional selectable four-wheel drive system. Buyers also have a choice between a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission, allowing it to be configured for different work demands.

How is it priced compared to other kei trucks?

The Mazda Scrum Truck holds a distinct position in the market. While it is mechanically the same as the Suzuki Carry and Nissan Clipper, its starting price of ¥1,127,600 (approximately $8,000) undercuts both at the entry-level, making it a strong value proposition. However, when compared to the wider market, it is priced higher than its key rival, the Daihatsu Hijet. The top-tier Scrum model with four-wheel drive and an automatic transmission is priced at ¥1,634,600 (approximately $10,700).

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