The Mazda BT-50 bakkie first made its debut in South Africa during the 2011 Johannesburg International Motor Show, flaunting towing capacity of 3 350kg. The vehicle went on sale in South Africa in 2012, entering a highly competitive market of double-cab bakkies.
The engine line-up for the BT-50 consists of a 2.2-litre and a 3.2-litre diesel derivative along with a 2.5-litre petrol variant. The 2.2-litre common-rail diesel engine is available in two power versions. The 88kW version produces 285Nm of torque while the 110kW version produces 375Nm of torque. The 3.2-litre diesel engine produces 147kW and 470Nm of torque. The diesel engines, except the 88kW 2.2-litre version (5-speed manual), are mated with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The 2.5-litre DOHC petrol engine delivers 122kW with a maximum torque figure of 225Nm. Like the 88kW 2.2-litre diesel engine, this engine is also mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.
Styling Features
The new Mazda BT-50 features a bold, wedge shaped profile with a five-point grille and boomerang-design headlamps with either 16-inch or 17-inch aluminium wheels. All the body types are longer, wider and higher than the outgoing model thereby increasing both passenger and loading space. Black is the keynote colour used for the interior that is highlighted with silver accents on the door trim, floor, centre console gear lever, parking brake button, door handles, climate-control levers, meter rings and dials. The new Mazda BT-50 is available in nine colours with three upholstery options including vinyl, fabric and leather for the Double Cab SLE models.
Safety Features
Active safety features for the new Mazda BT-50 include 4W-ABS, Traction Control System, Driver Stability Control, Emergency Brake Assist, Brake Override System, Load Adaptive Control, Trailer Sway Assist, Roll Stability Control, Hill Launch Assist and Hill Descent Control (4×4 only). Passive safety features include a rigid cabin, front, side and curtain airbags, shock absorbing steering column and a crushable brake pedal.
Price
Double Cab
Mazda BT-50 2.2 6MT 4×2 DieselR340 480
Mazda BT-50 3.2 6AT 4×4 Diesel R462 210
