The 2020 Mazda BT-50 is a game-changer. This beloved ute has seen a makeover for 2020 that makes it a perfect choice for drivers in Melbourne, where it's important to have a vehicle that performs as well off-road as it does in town. We're impressed with this ute–we think you will be, too.
A New Base
The 2020 version of the BT-50 is based on the Isuzu D-MAX. This means a new body, new safety tech, and new internals. The 2020 BT-50 sets a whole new standard for suspension and steering in the segment. Drivers also love the revved-up engine, the well-calibrated gearbox, and the insulated cabin that provides plenty of sound-deadening, even at highway speeds.
Great Tech
Even the base model of the BT-50 comes with a very responsive and capable 7-inch infotainment system that plays well with Andriod and Apple devices. Connect by Bluetooth or cable; both are equally responsive. There are also USB ports in front and rear, DAB+ digital radio, and a reversing camera standard.
If safety tech is your interest, the BT-50 doesn't disappoint. The standard systems include:
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Emergency lane-keeping assist
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Speed assist
- Lane-departure warning
- Lane-departure assist
- Roll-over protection
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Secondary collision reduction
Safety and Security
Combine all those tech features listed above with a 5-star ANCAP rating and ISOFIX attachments, and you're looking at a very safe SUV for the family. Mazda is banking their reputation on this offering, with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty.
This warranty includes 12-month or 15,000km service intervals, roadside assist, and an offer of capped-price Mazda Select Service that's $685 cheaper than anything they've offered in the past.
Powerful Engine
The BT-50 is powered by a 3.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine from Isuzu. This workhorse generates 140kW at 3,600rpm and 450Nm of torque. If you've driven an older model of the BT-50, you'll notice that this one is quicker off the mark. Choose from a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic with sports mode.
The fuel economy comes in at 7.7L to 8.0L per 100km, depending on the grade you choose, and you can tow up to 2500kg with a payload of at least 1055kg.
Road-Worthy Specs
Driving the BT-50, you'll notice the performance from independent double-wishbone suspension and rear dampers. 320x30cm vented front disc brakes combined with 295mm drum brakes in the rear offer instant stopping power.
We also loved the high- and low-range four-wheel-drive settings and the hill-start and hill descent controls. You might not use these in normal city driving conditions, but they make a lot of difference in off-road situations.
Thoughtful Touches
As you ride in the BT-50, you notice a lot of little things that make a big difference. A grab rail for passengers in the front and back, for instance, and lots of personal storage spaces. Rear air vents allow everyone to be comfortable, and USB ports are available front and back.
Drivers in Melbourne and throughout Australia love the BT-50. We recommend test-driving one for yourself to see if it might be the right ute for you.
