At first glance, one easily notices the Kodo design implemented around the vehicle, especially at the front with the new grille and headlamp designs. However, the changes are not only skin deep as the previous Mazda BT-50 shared many of its components and chassis with the Ford Ranger, while the new model is developed on the Isuzu D-Max platform and even utilize powertrains from the Japanese compatriot.
On offer is either a 1.9-litre, turbocharged, 4-cylinder diesel motor found in the Active derivatives. This power unit offers up 110 kW and 350 Nm of torque for the rear wheels via either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. Alternatively, customers can go for the 3.0-litre, turbocharged, 4-cylinder diesel motor. The engine is exclusively mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission which sends the 140 kW and 450 Nm to either the rear or all four wheels depending on the derivative.
Now that we know a little more about the platform and powertrains found in the new Mazda BT-50, let us take a look at characteristics more relevant to family use.
Space
Measuring 5 280mm in length, 1 785mm tall and 2 160mm wide, excluding the mirrors, the Mazda BT-50 is a sizable vehicle. These dimensions translate well into the cabin as there is ample space for five adult occupants. Instead of a boot, owners gain access to a large load bay measuring 1 571mm long, 1 120mm wide and 490mm tall if your fit a tonneau cover or roller shutter cover. For even more space, customers should consider a canopy that will allow for more or larger items to be securely transported.
Comfort
While customers should expect cloth upholstery throughout the BT-50, the seats are comfortable and the material is soft. Areas such as the dashboard and door trims do get leather-clad soft-touch surfaces for added style. While the Active derivatives offer a manual air conditioning system, the Dynamic offerings come with a dual-zone climate control system fitted.
Electric windows feature all around and the driver benefits from a leather-covered gear knob and multifunction steering wheel. Active derivatives come fitted with a 7.0-inch infotainment display while the Dynamic variants offer up a 9.0-inch unit. Both systems, however, are compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and provides two USB inputs, one at the front and one at the rear of the cabin.
Safety
Mazda didn't hold back when it came to standard safety equipment either. Owners of both the Active and Dynamic derivatives can expect no less than seven airbags which takes shape as driver and passenger front and side units, as well as a knee airbag for the driver and two curtain airbags for the rear occupants.
Furthermore, the Mazda BT-50 comes with a variety of safety systems including ABS brakes with emergency brake assist and a brake override accelerator system. Additionally, customers can expect rollover as well as trailer-sway mitigation systems as well as hill launch assist and hill descent control. While the Active variants come with rear parking sensors, the Dynamic derivatives offer front and rear systems.
All the derivatives, however, come fitted as standard with a reverse camera. Mazda has also incorporated ISOFIX for owners with children as well as child lock systems for the rear occupant doors. While the Mazda BT-50 in Dynamic guise benefits from a keyless entry system, all the derivatives come as standard with speed-sensing auto-lock doors, alarm system and engine immobiliser.
Verdict
Based on the information above, it seems as though the Mazda BT-50 ticks most if not all the boxes for a family vehicle. While a locking boot on a sedan might offer slightly more security for luggage items, it certainly does not provide the versatility of a load bay. Where the BT-50 certainly offer value is in the safety department.
Mazda has incorporated most of the important safety systems across the range and that is very respectable. For us, the Mazda BT-50 will make a great family vehicle whether it is only used for the morning commute or that family holiday at a remote destination.
