2024 Mazda BT-50 Review For The New Zealand Buyer

The Mazda BT-50 is sparking excitement among UTE enthusiasts in the New Zealand market as it is making a comeback with a stylish and refined appearance that is a step forward from its predecessors. From each angle, this vehicle inspires ruggedness, boldness, and confidence. It features Mazda’s “Kodo” design language. The cabin has been redesigned with driver comfort being a priority and it does not compromise when it comes to off-roading. Its engine is not only fuel-efficient but also it is eco-friendly for it has significantly reduced carbon emissions. As much it faces stiff competition from the likes of the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Nissan Navara, Mitsubishi Triton, Isuzu D-MAX, and Volkswagen Amarok, it appeals to a wider variety of different clientele with specific needs.

Engine Options

The 2024 Mazda BT-50 comes with two engine options.

  1. 3.0 L Intercooled Turbo Diesel
  2. 1.9 L Intercooled Turbo Diesel

Transmission Options

The 2024 Mazda BT-50 engine is linked to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

2024 Mazda BT-50 Grades

  1. BT-50 XS
  2. BT-50 S
  3. BT-50 GTX

For a detailed review of these grades and the best pick while buying this pickup, kindly refer to the 2024 Mazda BT-50 Buyer’s Guide.

2024 Mazda BT-50 Interior

The 2024 Mazda BT-50 redesigned its interior to prioritize comfort with improved ergonomics and high-quality materials. The seats are very supportive and offer plenty of legroom and headroom and they can be further adjusted to meet a desired posture. The dashboard layout is well-organized and simple to navigate.

The cabin is properly insulated to prevent outside noise from causing discomfort to the occupants. This UTE encompasses multiple storage compartments that are intended to improve the occupants ride comfort by either holding or storing their gears. A glove box compartment, door panel storage, two cupholders, and a center console are included in the first row. The second row features two cupholders, door pockets, and jacket pockets.

Infotainment features encompassed in the 2024 Mazda BT-50 include a 9-inch touchscreen embedded with a navigation system, AM/FM Radio, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple Car Play, and Android Auto.

2024 Mazda BT-50 Exterior

The 2024 Mazda BT-50 underwent a significant revamp in its exterior aesthetics to adopt a more contemporary and streamlined outlook. It has a wider stance and intricately sculpted lines that play a big role in improving aerodynamics. The front end is distinguishable courtesy of its “KODO” design language that is used almost in all Mazda products. It has a massive grille that exudes command and it is adorned with the Mazda emblem. The headlights and LED daytime running lights add a touch of refinement and sophistication. Fog lights are incorporated in the lower fascia.

Side steps are integrated in this UTE to aid passengers to effortlessly embark or disembark from the vehicle. Nicely done contours are visible as the door handles and mirror caps bear some chrome embellishments. Higher grades come with roof rails that improve the overall appearance of this truck.

The rear features LED taillights and turn signals as its large tailgate is manually operated. Some grades of the Mazda BT-50 come standard with a tow bar to cater to those who need to haul trailers or do any other work that befits it.

2024 Carrying Capacity/Cargo Capacity

  1. Double Cab has a bed area of 1549 mm (length) x 1560 mm (width) and 521 mm (depth)with a carrying capacity of 1,074 kg (XS & S grades), and 1054 kg (GTX grade).

2024 Mazda BT-50 Fuel Consumption

  • 3.0 L Intercooled Turbo Diesel fuel consumption- 10.8 km/l
  • 1.9 Intercooled Turbo Diesel fuel consumption- 12.9 km/l

2024 Mazda BT-50 Fuel Tank Capacity

The 2024 Mazda BT-50 has a fuel tank capacity of 80 liters.

2024 Mazda BT-50 Ground Clearance

The 2024 Mazda BT-50 ground clearance ranges from 9.0 to 9.3 inches.

2024 Mazda BT-50 Performance

The 2024 Mazda BT-50 comes with two engine options, a 3.0 L Intercooler Turbo Diesel which delivers 187 horsepower and 450 NM of torque that is good for off-roading and towing trailers. It delivers a polished and agile driving experience, while the 1.9 L Intercooler Turbo Diesel which has 147 horsepower and 350 NM of torque is ideal for eco-conscious individuals and it makes a good choice for a daily driver.

The 2024 Mazda BT-50 has a power-assisted steering wheel that enables it to effectively adapt to road curvature. The suspension system is very rigid and provides a firm ride when driving on highways and it also cushions passengers from jarring movements when cruising on uneven road surfaces. The engine works in tandem with the transmission system to deliver a smooth start and decent acceleration. Its agility is top-notch thanks to its large chassis. The brakes are very robust and capable of bringing this UTE to a complete stop in a matter of seconds to avoid any kind of collision.

2024 Mazda BT-50 Off-road Performance

The Mazda BT-50 is capable of handling moderate off-road trails as it comes standard with a 4WD system that allows the driver to interchange gears from low range to high range to improve traction depending on the terrain. Its approach and departure angles as well as its high ground clearance allow it to tackle inclines and declines perfectly without damaging its body components.

Unlike its competitors that can tackle extreme off-road terrains, the Mazda BT-50 has its own limitations. The suspension system prioritizes comfort over handling and it has an open differential that lacks the locking capability like its rivals hence its performance in extreme off-road could be average. Snorkels which allow a vehicle to cruise in deep waters do not come as standard in this UTE.

Other technologies incorporated in the 2024 Mazda BT-50 to improve its off-road performance include Active Stability Control & Traction Control (ASTC), Active LSD (Brake control type), Trailer Stability Assist (TSA), and Hill Descent Control.

2024 Mazda BT-50 Reliability

The 2024 Mazda BT-50 is considered a very reliable UTE. It shares its platform and other components with the Isuzu D-MAX which has built a strong reputation of reliability and durability over the years. Now that the 2024 model has incorporated more advanced features that could introduce additional complexity, it is always recommended to have regular service and maintenance to keep the vehicle in good condition.

2024 Mazda BT-50 Maintenance Schedule

At 5,000 km the 2024 Mazda BT-50 requires a change of the air filter, engine oil, and oil filter. At 10,000 km, the Triton requires an air cleaner, oil filter, fuel filter, ATF filter, cabin filters, plugs, front brake pads, rear brake pads, ATF oil, brake fluid flushes, coolant flushes, and engine oil.

For a comprehensive maintenance schedule, click here to download the 2024 Mazda BT-50 Owner’s Manual.

2024 Mazda BT-50 Problems and Issues

Transmission Problems

The most common transmission problem reported in the 2024 Mazda BT-50 is rough shifting.

3.0 L Intercooler Turbo Diesel engine problems

  • Clogging of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
  • Minor oil leaks

1.9 L Intercooler Turbo Diesel engine problems

  • Minor oil leaks

2024 Mazda BT-50 Competitors

  • Toyota Hilux
  • Ford Ranger
  • Nissan Navara
  • Isuzu D-MAX
  • Mitsubishi Triton
  • Volkswagen Amarok