Mazda BT-50 review (2006-2009)
PROS
- Good value
CONS
- Lacks the sophistication of rivals
Summary
The BT-50 replaced the B-Series as Mazda’s pickup model. It launched as either a two-seat Single Cab, or a full Double Cab with seating for five. A Freestyle Cab with rear-hinged back doors that open with the fronts to reveal two occasional back seats, was not part of the launch line-up in the UK.
Single Cabs had the choice of two or four-wheel drive, while the four-wheel drive only Double Cab had two equipment levels: TS and TS2.
It is mechanically similar to the period Ford Ranger (both are built by Mazda), but is a little cheaper and slightly less well equipped.
Skip to our full verdict on...
The 2.5-litre turbo diesel engine produced 143hp and 330Nm of torque as new. The period Nissan Navara was stronger, but the BT-50 was more powerful than most other pickups at that time and feels like it has ample power on the road.
The firm ride, strong engine and lack of ABS brakes means the two-wheel drive Single Cab needs care in slippery conditions, especially without any weight in the back to give any extra grip.
Four-wheel drive models can counter this by switching to all-wheel drive, and can also call upon a low-ratio gearbox for more serious off-road conditions. They also have more compliant suspension and ride more comfortably.
As with most of that generation of pickups, the BT-50's interior comfort is very car-like and a big improvement on previous generations.
The two-wheel drive Single Cab is quite functional inside, with a height-adjustable steering wheel and an MP3/CD stereo system with two speakers.
The four-wheel drive model had options for electric windows and mirrors, and climate control.
The Double Cab TS model is additionally fitted with, height-adjustable front seats, remote central locking and a four-speaker stereo system. The TS2 model has chrome enhanced bodywork, 16-inch alloy wheels and a six-speaker stereo system, but falls short of offering the leather trim and extra equipment of most other top-of-the-range pickups of that generation.
It hasn’t held its value as well as the more well known pickups from Toyota, Nissan, Isuzu and Mitsubish.
Service intervals at 20,000 mile points should minimise down-time.
The BT-50 should prove to be a reliable workhorse or a rugged lifestyle choice.
Although the Mazda dealer network is not particularly orientated towards the needs of the commercial vehicle operator in the way that some are.
The two-wheel drive Single Cab has twin airbags and an immobiliser, Double Cab models add side airbags, a Thatcham Category one alarm system and Anti-lock Brakes which prevent the BT-50 from skidding under hard braking.
