What is it?
The BT-50 shares its ladder-frame chassis, drivetrain and most of its hard points with the Isuzu D-Max, then wraps the package in a Mazda-designed body with its own suspension and cabin tune. Single engine across the 4x4 range: Isuzu's 3.0L turbo diesel four producing 140 kW and 450 Nm. 6-speed auto, low-range transfer case, rear diff lock standard on every 4x4, 3,500 kg braked tow across every grade.
The lineup runs from XS 4x2 Single Cab Chassis at $35,400 plus on-roads, through to SP 4x4 Dual Cab at $69,990 plus on-roads. Warranty cover sits at 5 years, unlimited km.
Interior and Technology
3.0L turbo diesel and 3,500 kg braked tow across every 4x4 grade. Rear diff lock standard on all 4x4 variants, not an option. Often cheaper to buy than an equivalent D-Max LS-U or X-Terrain in most months.
No hybrid or 48V option while HiLux now ships mild-hybrid standard. Cabin tech trails Ranger and newer Triton on screen size. Ride is noticeably truck-like unladen, softer once loaded. Resale tracks below HiLux and Ranger at 3 to 5 years.
Should you buy the BT-50?
Reasons to buy
- 3.0L turbo diesel and 3,500 kg braked tow across every 4x4 grade. Rear diff lock standard on all 4x4 variants, not an option. Often cheaper to buy than an equivalent D-Max LS-U or X-Terrain in most months.
- Warranty: 5 years, unlimited km.
- 5-star ANCAP (2022), full driver-assist suite.
- Braked towing rated at 3,500 kg.
Reasons to wait
- No hybrid or 48V option while HiLux now ships mild-hybrid standard. Cabin tech trails Ranger and newer Triton on screen size. Ride is noticeably truck-like unladen, softer once loaded. Resale tracks below HiLux and Ranger at 3 to 5 years.
- You want a V6 powertrain (Ranger V6), mild hybrid assist (HiLux 48V), a 6-year warranty (D-Max), or a PHEV (Ranger PHEV).
- Cross-shop the equivalent D-Max grade on drive-away pricing in your state. The GT at $66,400 plus on-roads is the sweet spot for tow rig buyers. SP layers in cosmetic upgrades only, no mechanical changes.
- Top trim climbs to $69,990 plus on-roads.
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