There are few automotive segments with more competent entrants than the bakkie segment, particularly in the South African market, where some big names duke it out monthly for the honour of best-selling bakkie. The Mazda BT-50 has been the quintessential left-field choice in the bakkie segment for decades
The previous generation BT-50 is based in the massively popular Ford Ranger, sharing a platform and powertrains with the locally produces Ranger. The latest BT-50 is different, though, and shares its underpinnings with the upcoming Isuzu D-Max, which is like the outgoing model in many ways. Does this entrant from Mazda have what it takes to compete in this bustling segment? We received the flagship 4x4 Individual to drive for a week to see what the newcomer is like.
Styling
The styling of the latest BT-50 is certainly an improvement over the previous model, with the brand adopting the same so-called KODO design language for the exterior with a large grille with a chrome surround, compact LED headlamps and a broad lower bumper. The side profile and rear-end of the bakkie are fairly generic, a welcome change from the odd rear-end on its predecessor.
Interior and space
Inside, the BT-50 is again improved and resembles many other Mazda products, albeit with more hard plastics than soft-touch materials seen in the brand’s other passenger models. The general layout and ergonomics are simple and very easy to use, we just do not see much innovation versus the current crop of double cabs, many of which will be replaced soon with next-generation models.
In terms of standard features, there is a multifunction steering wheel, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, front and rear electric windows, 18-inch alloy wheels, electrically adjustable side mirrors, front and rear Park Distance Control, auto fold chrome-covered heated side mirrors, automatic wipers, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear lever, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, keyless entry, cloth seats and LED fog lamps.
While this appears like a long list of features, the similarly priced Toyota Hilux double cab 4x4 Legend auto is better specified, while the cheaper Nissan Navara double cab PRO-4X 4x4 matches the BT-50 in terms of standard kit.
The infotainment system features a 9.0-inch colour touchscreen with an 8-speaker audio system and a reverse camera. Connectivity includes Bluetooth, USB as well as both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality and is very easy and intuitive to use.
Performance and driving impression
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.
While the powertrain is surprisingly good, things start to come undone when the product is presented with anything other than a perfectly smooth road, offering a harsh, bouncy ride reminiscent of bakkies of old. The ride improves as a load is added, but the Mazda’s key rivals manage to offer a superior ride regardless of the load being carried. This is an issue that needs to be addressed as Mazda are marketing this as a lifestyle bakkie, and with ride quality in line with a workhorse, we don’t foresee anyone opting for this product after a brief test drive.
Heading off-road, things are better, with the locking rear differential, front axle disconnect and selectable four-wheel drive all combining to provide good traction at our slippery, rocky, local off-road course. The 240mm of ground clearance, 800mm wading depth and respectable approach, break-over and departure angles mean that the BT-50 will have enough capability to take on just about everything a lifestyle bakkie owner can throw at it.
Safety
The BT-50 was crash-tested by the ANCAP assessment programme in 2020 where it achieved a 5-Star rating, totalling 31.66 pints out of a possible 38 points. Ratings include 83% for adult occupant safety, 89% for child occupant safety and 67% for pedestrian safety.
Safety items include 7 airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchor points, ABS, Traction Control, Trailer Sway Mitigation (TSM), Roll Over Mitigation (ROM), Hill Launch Assist (HLA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC).
Fuel economy
Mazda claims a fuel consumption figure of 8.0 L/100km, however, our week with the product resulted in a combined consumption figure of 9.1 L/100km, which is more than respectable for a bakkie in this segment.
Pricing
Our flagship 3.0TD double cab 4x4 Individual is priced at R794 400 and comes with a 3-year/unlimited mileage warranty and service plan.
Verdict
The latest BT-50 is a massive aesthetic improvement over the bakkie it replaces, but its harsh ride quality and high list price versus the standard specification means that it is poised to secure exceedingly low sales volumes in the highly competitive double cab bakkie segment.
