Dual Cab, Extra Cab and Ute are on offer, and the variations don’t stop at that; the 2017 Mazda BT-50 has many trim levels within these body shapes to meet your needs and preferences. Essentially, the Dual Cab, Extra Cab and ute all use the grunty 3.2-litre turbo-diesel to do the work, while the singular XT 4×2 ute can be powered by the smaller 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine running with just the six-speed manual transmission. More streamlined in its new look, the BT-50 still has one of the most practical small 4×4 and 4×2 work trucks on the market.
Ranging from between $25-and-$55 k, a new Mazda BT-50 ute has a model to suit. A very roomy and modern interior seats five burly adults with ease in any of the Dual Cab models.
Both a six-speed automatic and six-speed manual option are available across the range, except where the previously mentioned 2.2-litre links with just the manual gearbox. We are probably all familiar with the nice torque-rich, five-cylinder, 3.2-litre turbo diesel that powers most of the BT-50 range. Peaking at 147 kW of power and boasting a maximum torque of 470 Nm, this machine has effortless cruising ability that is made all that more relaxing in the six-speed auto option.
Whichever model of BT-50 you care to drive, Mazda has given the 2017 BT-50 a really nice, compliant chassis that feels solid and safe at varying speeds over multiple road surfaces. It’s also commendably quiet inside the cabin, making it a great cabin to pass the time in. Seats are comfortable and both the driver’s seat and steering wheel are adjustable. If you like to do a bit of off-road work, then the BT-50 is happy to oblige. There is a heap of ground clearance, and the 4×4 system provides a locking rear differential which snaffles plenty of traction in testing conditions. Every 2017 Mazda BT-50 with 4WD has an electronically controlled transfer case that allows the driver to shift between 2WD and 4WD using a switch in the centre console. You can even use the switch at speeds of up to 120km/h.
Along with off-road capability, towing can also be needed from time-to-time. With each 3.2-litre model comes the very useful 3500 kg braked tow rating.
As with most things, the more you pay the more you get, but even the base models feel comfortable and well equipped with a sound system and smartphone connectivity. GT and XTR Mazda BT-50 models are the models with most the gear. Things like a reversing camera, leather seats, side steps, rain sensing wipers, auto on/off headlights, satellite navigation and rear parking sensors make their way into the item list.
BT-50 utes in top trim even get a 5-inch multi-info display screen, which is a nice touch for what are the real hard workers in the fray. One of the new features that you’ll find inside the 2017 BT-50 models is the nice-sounding Alpine sound system, which is set to keep you entertained with great sound clarity.
Safety standards are five-star rated, and you come equipped with features like: Antilock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Electronic Brake Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), Hill Launch Assist (HLA), Roll Stability Control (RSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) and Load Adaptive Control (LAC) and front, side and curtain airbags. 4WD models also feature Hill Descent Control (HDC).
Ford Ranger and the Toyota Hilux might be the preferred workhorses in this class of vehicle at the moment, but if I would have to say the new Mazda BT-50 has as much going for it as these two. This is a nice clean ride that has plenty of power, space, safety and practicality.
The 2018 Mazda BT-50 models include the:
For any more information on the latest Mazda BT-50 models or, for that matter, any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181. If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quote requests out to our national network of Mazda dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet – car buying made easy!