2021 Mazda BT-50 4×4 Review
Mazda has made some big moves in the ute class, with the 2021 Mazda BT-50 4×4 offering some incredible benefits in terms of its advanced technology and safety features. The new generation BT-50 model also boasts some seriously stylish design characteristics, which helps set it apart from one of its key competitors, the Isuzu D-Max. In this 2021 Mazda BT-50 4×4 review, we’ll be taking you through everything you need to know about Mazda’s newest model that gives you one of the safest and most comfortable ute options on the market.
Key Specs
The dual-cab BT-50 starts at $44,090 for the XT 4×2 automatic model. The trim levels top out at $59,990 for the GT 4×4 automatic model, which we’ll mainly be discussing here. The top of the range GT model is fitted with a 3L turbo diesel 4 cylinder engine that gives you around 140kW @ 3600rpm. This engine remains relatively quiet and also gives you some nice grunt when you need it.
Although it’s definitely similar to the Isuzu D-Max, the BT-50 shows its stylistic prowess again with the spare wheel that matches the alloy of the main wheels, rather than a standard steel one. The more obvious differences and where the BT-50 really shines bright is in the stylistic choices both inside and outside of the ute.
Bursting With Style
The sleek dual cab BT-50 takes the traditional look and feel of a ute and gives it a much-needed facelift. The heated leather seats inside the cabin make slipping into the supremely comfortable seats that much more enjoyable all throughout the year. If you’re tossing up between a few different utes and are wanting one with a little bit of style to it, you definitely should take a close look at the new Mazda BT 50.
The interesting touch of the contrasting brown leather interior trim (which comes standard on the GT trim level) gives the cabin an appeal that makes you think you’re in a more luxurious and expensive type of car. It’s a step up from the old black leather and grey plastics that were beginning to seem overdone and dated in the BT-50.
Unlike some utes on the market, the back seats aren’t just placed in there so the car can claim to be a “dual cab” while squeezing the passengers in the back. The second row of the dual-cab offers ample legroom, so the whole family is able to stretch out nicely on those long road trips. Did we mention how comfortable the seats were?
Class-Leading Infotainment Screen Size
The large 9-inch infotainment media screen in the BT-50 is the largest screen you will see in a ute. If you’re on more of a budget, you’ll be presented with the smaller 7-inch screen of the XT entry model, which is still adequately sized to get the job done. The resolution on the screen nice and clear, making them very accessible by touchscreen when on the roads.
The infotainment system also gives you wired Android Auto connectivity, as well as the choice of wireless or USB connectivity for Apple CarPlay. The inbuilt sat nav is also easily operated, being quite quick in response to any inputs you make on the go.
Handy Driver Features
The BT-50 features some nice little storage options like the double glovebox, as well as the cupholders between the seats.
As you sit in the driver’s seat you’ll see the 4.2-inch digital driver heads up screen that holds the digital speedometer. You’ll also be able to access the comprehensive safety system settings as well, simply by using the buttons located on the steering wheel.
Top Level Safety
Being awarded the top 5-star ANCAP crash test rating is no mean feat, particularly for a large ute like the BT-50. Across all of the trim levels, you’ll find the handy reversing camera, with the pickup models also including rear parking sensors. If you go for the GT model, you’ll also find parking sensors at the front too, making any type of city parking manoeuvre so much simpler.
The auto emergency braking (AEB) system is part of the advanced safety tech, which operates at over 10km/h. There’s also the misacceleration control which can help to reduce the chances of a low-speed collision. The cyclist and pedestrian detection systems are also great safety additions, that give you a little more peace of mind when you’re touring around the city.
All models are fitted with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert too, which come in handy for such a large car. The automatic models also have adaptive cruise control, while the manual models have standard cruise.
One great addition to the safety features in the BT-50 is the front-centre airbag which offers protection for those sitting in the front seats in the event that there is a collision from the side. There are also dual ISOFIX child seat anchor points and two top-tether attachments in the dual-cab models, perfect for safely taking your younger bubs out on the roads.
Solid Towing Capacity
If you’re thinking about taking that new boat out for a spin, the new BT-50 has got your back with its towing rating up at 3500kg for a braked trailer and at 750kg for an unbraked trailer. If you’re opting for the genuine Mazda towing package, the tow ball down weight is at 350kg across all of the models.
Impressive Fuel Economy
The fuel tank is capable of holding 76L, and real-world consumption has seen drivers get an average of around 8.9L/100km. This is pretty impressive, considering that these cars are often driven across a huge range of terrains, including everything from highways to extensive off-road driving. When looking at the old model which claimed a 10L/100km fuel economy, there’s been a definite improvement in the 2021 BT-50.
The Verdict
The BT-50 is a pretty enjoyable drive, with the electric steering system making it light and easy to steer. As a solid option in the ute class, the 2021 Mazda BT-50 definitely sits a few notches above the competition in a number of areas.
If you’re looking for a stylish ute, that possesses strong safety features and handy driver-assist technologies, you’re going to want to check out the new BT-50. Feel free to get in touch with the friendly Mazda Dealers Perth team at Mandurah Mazda to discuss the new BT-50 in detail. We can also book a test drive down at our dealership so you can get a hands on look at the new model.
