Mazda BT-50

Mazda BT-50 – Overview

For the all-new 2021 Mazda BT-50 range, two variants are on offer. (to update once the vehicle is available for sale)
The 2021 Mazda BT-50 is also the latest pick-up to join the list of excise duty-free recreational vehicles, led by Toyota Hilux, Mitsubishi Triton, Ford Ranger, Nissan Navara and Isuzu D-Max. 

Mazda BT-50 – Exterior

It may have taken longer than usual, but the latest Mazda BT-50 is the most good-looking pick-up in the segment. There are no traces of styling to indicate its Isuzu origins. Upfront, the signature Mazda Kodo styling with strong crossover elements such as from the Mazda CX-9 gives the BT-50 the premium look, standing out from the usual pick-up models.

The large radiator grille is simple but effective, with its signature wings flowing neatly into the compact LED headlamps. Compared to other pick-ups, the Mazda BT-50 does not have any black lower body claddings, further making the pick-up look premium.   

The 2021 Mazda BT-50 is fitted with 18-inch wheels with tyres measuring 265/60R18 size. A large side steps in silver and black assist occupants for better entrance and exit from the 2021 Mazda BT-50.

At the back, the styling is a lot less special, with simple light clusters on the body and a colour-coded rear bumper with an integrated assist step for easier access to the cargo bed. Due to the vertical layout of the tail lamps, the Mazda BT-50 does not have any Mazda signature lighting look to it.  

Mazda BT-50 – Interior

Dashboard

The dashboard of the Mazda BT-50 is a nice piece of softly padded panel with full-length double stitching completed in dual-tone colour scheme. Satin silver finishing is used on key areas such as the air vent surround, steering wheel, shift lever and door handles.

The knee pads or lower console trim pieces are even covered with soft-touch material and lined with double stitching! This makes the Mazda BT-50 look even more premium than cars from Germany!

Instrument cluster

The driver’s instrument cluster in the 2021 Mazda BT-50 is a more traditional analogue dials and small multi-information display (MID) setup. The colour MID measures 4.2 inches and displays key driving information as well as the operating status of the ADAS and the 4x4 system.

Space and practicality

There are also two large cupholders next to the handbrake lever. The rear bench meanwhiles split in 60-40 with two underseat storage compartments. To ease smaller-framed occupants into the back seat, there are grip handles placed on the B-pillar of the Mazda BT-50. Very useful!

Similar to the Isuzu, the Mazda BT-50 gets a rear USB charging port and a small storage slot for the rear occupants. Surprisingly though, the dashboard storage bin found in the Isuzu is not retained in the Mazda BT-50.
The cargo or truck bed of the 2021 Mazda BT-50 is 1,571 mm long, 1,530 mm wide, and 490 mm high. 

Mazda BT-50 – Features

Safety features

Comfort features

Other standard features in the 2021 Mazda BT-50 include auto-dimming rearview mirror, automatic dual-zone air-conditioning with rear vents, automatic rain-sensing wipers, smart entry with walk-away auto door lock and leather upholstery.

Infotainment

Physical buttons such as home and volume make the system very user friendly too.
Audio is played via an 8-speaker setup, including two ceiling-mounted speakers for additional staging effect. These are originally designed by partner, Isuzu.  

Mazda BT-50 – Powertrain

Engine

Similar outputs to the Isuzu, the 1.9-litre unit develops 150 PS at 3,600 rpm and 350 Nm of torque between 1,800 to 2,600 rpm, while the larger 3.0-litre churns out 190 PS at 3,600 rpm and 450 Nm of torque from 1,600 to 2,600 rpm.

Isuzu says the big capacity engine has been thoroughly reworked for better refinement, durability and performance.
(To confirm the availability of 1.9 litre once launched)

Transmission

Chassis

Large brake discs from the Isuzu is also maintained, with the ventilated front disc brake measuring 320 mm while the rear drums are 295 mm in diameter.

The Mazda BT-50 has a ground clearance of 240 mm with a wading depth of 800 mm. On the range-topping Mazda BT-50, the rear differential also comes with an electric-actuated rear differential lock for maximum traction out of the most challenging terrain.

The Mazda BT-50 does not have an electronic brake-actuated limited-slip system unlike in the Toyota (Active TRC) and Nissan (Active Brake Limited Slip).

Drivetrain

Mazda BT-50 – Driving Performance

Engine performance

Transmission performance

Steering and handling

Mazda BT-50 – Ride Comfort

Soundproofing

Passenger comfort

Mazda BT-50 – Fuel Economy

Mazda BT-50 – Conclusion

The powertrain is one of the best matched, with instantenous pick-up and well-matched gear ratios and great fuel consumption. Safety features are also high and plenty in both models, as such, choosing the Mazda BT-50 or Isuzu is down to personal preference as well as the dealership nearest to you.