We've been waiting a while for this Mazda ute, and now that it's here, will it live up to the hype? We took a close look at the BT-50 and think it has a lot to offer, especially if you're looking for a smooth ride and handling in a distinctively good-looking ute. Let's take a look at the Mazda BT-50 specs.
Mazda BT-50 Specs
Starting with the numbers, the base model XT runs $44,090, while the top-of-the-line GT dual cab is $55,990. There's a middle trim designed for sportier applications: the XRT. If you get a 4×2, it's available only in an automatic transmission, but the 4×4 range offers a manual option. The turbo diesel engine is a 3.0-litre, four-cylinder engine that generates 140kW, paired with a six-speed transmission (whether you choose auto or manual).
All the trims are available with Cab Chassis or Dual Cab Pick-Up style, and all have a braked towing capacity of 3,500kg. The payload varies from 1,055kg with the XTR 4×2 all the way up to 1,106 in the XT Dual Cab 4×4. Ground clearance is either 235 or 240mm, depending on the trim (and thus the tyre size). The BT-50 is covered by Mazda's five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, and recommended service intervals are 12-months or every 15,000km.
Key Features
You get a lot of key features with this ute, like adaptive cruise control, body-coloured mirrors, LED headlamps, a reverse camera, and Apple and Andriod connectivity. You also get automatic high beams, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and much, much more. A lot of the tech that competitors save for the highest trims are freely available in the base model BT-50 XT.
When you move up to the XTR, you get 18-inch wheels instead of 17-inch and a few extras, like auto levelling for the headlamps, front fog lamps and side steps, dual-zone climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, satellite navigation, and advanced keyless entry. Spring for the GT and you'll get all that plus chrome exterior mirrors, leather seat trim, heated front seats, and remote engine start (and some other goodies).
What's It Like to Drive?
How does it feel behind the wheel of this ute? Well, perhaps our favourite thing about the BT-50 is that it doesn't drive like an SUV. Both in style and performance, this is a ute and looks it, but it still retains style. It looks great on the outside, and the inside is classy and comfortable. It also offers more room in the back seat than just about anything else in the class, so the kids will definitely be able to fit.
The infotainment system is easy to use, with a clear, crisp display. The satellite navigation feature works very well, and there are lots of driver aids. Perhaps just as importantly, there are also easy ways to turn off any driver aids you don't like or find annoying.
It's about time Oz got the new BT-50 we've all been waiting for. Now that it's here, we're not disappointed.
