The Mazda BT-50 is built tough from the ground up, its ladder-frame chassis provides reinforcement for maximum rigidity. The resulting stability can be felt in car-like handling, while the powerful engine makes towing light work. Harnessing the power is up to you - choose from a rugged 6-speed manual for complete control or a versatile 6-speed auto that also allows for smooth manual changes.
2.2L Engine
Boosted by a variable geometry turbocharger to reduce lag, the 2.2-litre engine delivers 110 kW and 375 Nm using just 7.6 L/100km of fuel (manual) and 9.4 L/100km with the automatic transmission. Top speed is 175 km/h.
3.2L Engine
Feel the grunt of a five-cylinder engine with common-rail direct injection and intercooling. Pumping out 147 kW at 3000 rpm and 470 Nm of torque at 1750 rpm you get effortless muscle for every task. Claimed fuel consumption with the automatic gearbox is rated at 9.7 L/100km and from 9.3 L/100km with the manual gearbox. Top speed is 175 km/h.
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Automatic Transmission
Let the intelligent six-speed auto do the work for you, or step in for manual gear shifts when the mood strikes. In auto mode, Active Adaptive Shift (AAS) kicks in – intuitively changing gears to suit your driving conditions.
Manual Transmission
Enjoy the smooth ride of a six-speed manual that delivers fluid precision-shifting ratios. Transition through gear changes with ease for a true sense of control over your vehicle’s performance.
Which one is for you?
That decision lies with you, and what you will need from your BT-50. Obviously, the 3.2L offers more power and torque which is handy when towing. This engine is also said to be vastly more refined, robust, and quiet compared to when it first began life as the Td5 diesel engine powering the Land Rover Defender and Discovery about 20 years ago.
The 3.2L 4WD models are further equipped with Trailer Sway Control (TSC) which adjusts braking and torque to correct any side-to-side swinging movement of towed loads. It also has Load Adaptive Control (LAC), Roll Over Mitigation (ROM) and Hill Launch Assist (HLA) as standard. When you remove your foot from the brake on an incline, HLA keeps the brakes applied, releasing them when there’s enough power for a smooth start. While you’re on steep slopes, you can engage Hill Descent Control (HDC) to maintain steady control of your speed.
Additionally, the 3.2L models also have engine underbody protection and a fuel tank guard. It would be best to sit down with a Mazda salesman and discuss all the extras that a model with a 3.2L engine has, while measured against your budget, and decide from there which is best for you.
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