2016 Mazda BT-50 Review

The 2016 Mazda BT-50 has arrived in Australia, with the workhorse ute adopting a revised look, gaining some new tech and coming offered in more spec levels than ever before. There are 23 derivatives of the new-look Mazda BT-50 to choose from, with 4x2 and 4x4 variants, as well as single-, space- and dual-cab body styles. You can choose between with a tray-back ute or a pick-up body style, and prices range from $25,570 for the entry-level model up to $53,790 for the flagship GT auto. As you can see, there have been some subtle styling changes to the BT-50, including a revised grille and headlights, revised front bumper and models fitted with the styleside tub, there’s a slightly revised rear-end. It’s fair to say the BT-50 still doesn’t look as macho as some of the other utes on sale, but it does tick all the boxes in terms of load carrying capacity. This XTR model, for instance, has a competitively sized tray and the payload for the auto dual-cab 4x4 is 1095 kilograms – more than many rivals, and about as much as a Mazda 2 hatchback. And nearly all BT-50 models have a 3.5-tonne towing capacity. Inside there have been minimal changes, but there is a new media screen fitted to upper spec models. The 7.8-inch touchscreen includes a simple and effective satellite navigation system, and Bluetooth phone and audio streaming. A reverse-view camera is standard in the two highest-spec models – it shows up in the rear view mirror - and that safety tech is now optional on...