In this article:
Who is the Mazda BT-50 a good car for?
What is the Mazda BT-50 like to drive?
Tech features in the Mazda BT-50
Similar cars to the Mazda BT-50
Is the Mazda BT-50 a good car?
The Mazda BT-50 has, for the longest time, been the alternative choice for those in the market for a double cab bakkie and fans of the brand. Previously sharing technology and components with the Ford Ranger, the third-generation BT-50 now employs technology from the Isuzu D-Max range, including powerplants.
Who is the Mazda BT-50 a good car for?
Consumers who are still struggling to get to grips with the softened nature of the current range of double cab offerings will appreciate the hardy approach taken by Mazda with the latest BT-50. While still offering modern safety and creature comforts, the BT-50 presents as a harder-wearing workhorse.
Is the Mazda BT-50 a good first car?
The BT-50 is not recommended as a first car. Unless the driver has experience with larger double cab vehicles, the length and width of the BT-50 will make parking and positioning the vehicle in traffic more difficult.
Is the Mazda BT-50 a good family car?
The BT-50 offers seating for 5 with a generous second row for rear seat passengers. Broader adults may find the rear quarters a little tight in the shoulder room department but rear legroom and headroom will prove more than adequate. ISOFIX mountings also provide additional peace-of-mind for owners with young children who are still confined to car seats.
Is there a Hybrid Mazda BT-50?
The Mazda BT-50 is only available with a choice of two diesel engines, both lifted from the Isuzu lineup. Customers can choose from a 1.9-litre or 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, both sporting 4-cylinder arrangements.
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What’s it like to drive?
Reviewer's opinion
"While some may lament the loss of the Ford powerplants in favour of Isuzu units, the 3.0-litre in-line four-cylinder Isuzu-sourced turbodiesel engine in the range has been upgraded, with a new turbocharger allowing for 140kW and 450Nm of torque. The six-speed automatic gearbox has new software too and is very well matched to the motor, allowing for impressive acceleration for a four-cylinder bakkie effortless progress."
- Sean Nurse, AutoTrader
Read the full Mazda BT-50 review
What does it look like?
Exterior
Interior
What is the Mazda BT-50 like inside?
While the ride may be firmer than that of the competition, the interior is a modern and tidy example of modern-day double cab design. Broad horizontal lines that span the width of the cabin give the impression of space while satin silver brightwork breaks the monotony of the dark upholstery and trimmings. Simplified switchgear means that all the controls are situated in convenient locations with clear, ledgible markings.
Style
The third-generation Mazda BT-50 continues to drum to its own, stylish beat, offering narrow headlights and a large front grille that aligns with the rest of Mazda's KODO Design language. The grille features a bold chrome trimming to make a statement while the lower section of the front bumper is flanked by a set of spotlights.
At the rear, the tell-tale Isuzu influence is immediately noticed in the taillights but the rear tailgate proudly wears the Mazda badge and an integrated spoiler element.
Tech features
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- 18” Alloy Wheels
- LED Headlamps
- 9-Inch Display Screen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
*specification may vary based on trim level.
Price and specs
Which is the cheapest Mazda BT-50?
Pricing for the Mazda BT-50 start from R630 400 for the Mazda BT-50 1.9TD double cab Active.
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How much does it cost?
| Model | Price |
| Mazda BT-50 1.9TD double cab Active | R630 400 |
| Mazda BT-50 1.9TD double cab Active auto | R667 500 |
| Mazda BT-50 3.0TD double cab Dynamic | R782 400 |
| Mazda BT-50 3.0TD double cab 4x4 Individual | R818 400 |
*Pricing correct at time of publishing and subject to change without notice.
Competitors
Similar Cars to the Mazda BT-50
Toyota Hilux
Read our latest Toyota Hilux reviews
Search the latest new and used Toyota Hilux for sale in South Africa
Ford Ranger
Read our latest Ford Ranger reviews
Search the latest new and used Ford Ranger for sale in South Africa
Isuzu D-Max
Read our latest Isuzu D-Max reviews
Search the latest new and used Isuzu D-Max for sale in South Africa
