Mazda’s tough new ute tested

Instead, it shares DNA with Isuzu’s new D-Max.

Our family tests the entry-level 4WD dual-cab XT version.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Iain: Glory be. A dual-cab ute free of fripperies. This one may actually see a worksite rather than beachside car parks.

Jules: It’s certainly lacking the usual “tough truck” visuals.

Iain: It may be a little plain, but at least there are no silly stickers, garish paint jobs, sports bars, side steps and snorkels that’ll never be used.

Jules: You mean the fun stuff? Look, a dual-cab ute may not be a girl’s first choice, but when we drive one we want it to look the part.

Iain: But those range-topping peacock versions cost a bomb.

Jules: How much is this one?

Iain: It’s the BT-50 XT; the range’s cheapest dual-cab 4WD and about $57,500 drive-away with auto, roughly $11,000 cheaper than the top of the range model.

Jules: If you were writing it off against tax I reckon most would plump for the tough-looking one. This looks a bit dull with its Mazda SUV-like nose.

Iain: I disagree. The BT-50 XT’s an understated classy choice. Mazda doesn’t charge extra for metallic or mica paint, either.

Jules: Isn’t it just an Isuzu in disguise?

Iain: The BT-50 and Isuzu D-Max utes were co-developed. Same platforms, engines and abilities, but different skins and cabins.

THE LIVING SPACE

Jules: I say this about all utes. They’re great at off-roading, towing and carrying stuff but don’t expect cabin quality to match a similar-priced SUV.

Iain: Most buyers don’t. Dual-cabs are work and lifestyle vehicles.

Jules: Many of my friends use dual-cabs as everyday family transport. An SUV would suit better.

Iain: Well, the BT-50’s interior isn’t bad. The 7-inch touchscreen runs wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, the dash is soft to the touch and the build quality is good.

Jules: Loads of space too, and the elevated driving position is truck-like.

Iain: Its work roots show in some respects. The seats are cloth, the doors are big slabs of plastic and the central armrest is crying out for some proper padding.

THE COMMUTE

Jules: It’s a tale of two experiences. Around town the BT-50’s huge, cumbersome and bouncy. Get it on the highway and it’s a smooth, quiet cruiser.

Iain: The 3.0-litre diesel’s 140kW and 450Nm aren’t strongest in class, but there’s plenty of pull at low speed. It’s a smooth unit too, and with its Isuzu truck roots, should prove fairly bulletproof. At 110km/h there’s practically no engine noise as it hums along at low revs.

Jules: Radar cruise control makes the highway drive easy, but its lane-keep assist is quite aggressive.

Iain: I found that too. It’s a wide vehicle so keeping between the lines isn’t always easy. It tugs the steering wheel with too much force.

Jules: It costs $57,500 you say? No keyless entry, satnav or dual-zone climate control for that money.

THE SHOPPING

Iain: There are no front parking sensors, only rears and the camera. Tight supermarket spaces aren’t fun.

Jules: But that giant tub will fit a whole cow. It’s a huge space, but my groceries roll around, plus there’s no covering to protect things from the elements or thieves.

Iain: Agreed. You’d need a canopy or tonneau cover, as well as a tub liner or mat, which adds to the cost.

SUNDAY RUN

Jules: The BT-50’s not easy to live with every day, but weekend lifestyle opportunities are endless.

Iain: It’s so capable. Our sandy bush trail adventure barely bothered this capable Mazda.

Jules: The way it absorbed giant bumps and holes off-road was superb.

Iain: Flicking it into low range was remarkably un-clunky, taking just two seconds after twisting a dial. There’s 800mm wading capability and a locking rear differential as standard. In short, it’ll handle most of Australia’s harshest environments.

THE FAMILY

Jules: Rear air vents kept the kids cool, they have a USB point and the bouncy ride never bothered them.

Iain: Adults sitting in the back have the usual low seat, high floor problem of utes, but there’s lots of headroom.

Jules: There’s a load of safety gear.

Iain: It’s segment-leading for inclusions, even at this level. Rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitor and an airbag between driver and passenger are highlights.

Jules: Ute safety has come such a long way.

Iain: Services are a reasonable $2307 for five years. Our diesel use at 8.3L/100km was very good.

Jules: Yes, but for the same purchase price I could get a high-spec family SUV. That’s my value problem.

THE VERDICT

Iain: It may lack cabin luxury or tough-guy body adornments, but its bones impress. Very capable, quiet engine and strong safety.

Jules: One of the better utes, but I’d need a tub cover for practicality. This XT is too plain for me – bring me the one with flashy body bits, knobbly tyres and bull bars please!