2023 Mazda BT-50: A Capable and Reliable Ute

2023 Mazda BT-50: A Capable and Reliable Ute

The 2023 Mazda BT-50 continues to impress with its blend of power, functionality, and modern features, making it a strong contender in the competitive dual-cab ute market. This comprehensive review highlights its towing capabilities, design, and overall driving experience.

Performance and Towing Capacity

The 2023 Mazda BT-50 is powered by a 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, delivering 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque. This robust engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. The BT-50 boasts a braked towing capacity of up to 3500kg, making it ideal for towing heavy trailers, boats, or caravans. This towing capability is comparable to other leading utes in its class, such as the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux​ (CarExpert)​​ (Drive)​.

Design and Utility

Mazda has designed the BT-50 with a focus on both comfort and utility. The interior features high-quality materials and modern amenities, including an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The cabin is spacious, offering good headroom and legroom for passengers. However, the rear seatback is quite upright, which may affect long-distance comfort for adults​ (CarExpert)​​ (CarExpert)​. The BT-50's tub is practical and includes a heavy-duty liner, providing ample space for cargo. It measures 1571mm in length, 1530mm in width, and 490mm in depth. The vehicle also features a polished sports bar and a tailgate that, while heavy, ensures secure storage​ (CarExpert)​.

Driving Experience

Driving the 2023 BT-50 is a pleasant experience, particularly with the suspension upgrades available on some models. The vehicle handles well on various surfaces, from urban streets to rugged off-road tracks. The diesel engine offers plenty of low-end torque, which is crucial for towing and hauling heavy loads. Additionally, the steering is light and fluid, making it easy to maneuver, although the size of the ute can make parking challenging in tight spaces​ (CarExpert)​​ (CarExpert)​.

Manufacturer Specifications

Attribute	Details
Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM)	3100kg
Gross Combined Mass (GCM)	6000kg
Payload	892kg
Rear Max Axle Load	Not specified
Tow Capacity (Braked)	3500kg
Tow Capacity (Braked) at Max Payload	2900kg

Summary of 2023 Mazda BT-50's Attributes

Attribute	Details
Engine Options	3.0-litre Turbo-Diesel
Power	140kW
Torque	450Nm
Kerb Weight	2208kg
Towing Capacity	3500kg (braked)
Gross Combination Mass (GCM)	6000kg
Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM)	3100kg
Payload (Max)	892kg
Fuel Consumption	8.0L/100km (combined)
ANCAP Safety Rating	5 star

Reasons to Buy:

• Strong Towing Capacity: The BT-50’s 3500kg braked towing capacity makes it ideal for heavy-duty tasks.
• Comfortable and Modern Interior: Equipped with advanced technology and spacious seating, offering a comfortable ride.
• Versatile and Practical: The robust design and practical features make it suitable for both work and leisure activities.

Key Factors to Consider:

• Suspension Comfort: The ride is best when the vehicle is loaded, as the suspension can feel jittery when unladen.
• Rear Seat Comfort: The upright rear seatback may affect comfort on long journeys.
• Fuel Efficiency: While reasonable for its class, fuel consumption could be a factor for long-term use.

The 2023 Mazda BT-50 stands out as a reliable and capable ute, perfect for those needing a strong towing vehicle with modern amenities and a comfortable interior.