Mazda BT-50 (2006-2026)
Also referred to as: Mazda BT-50 2025 and Mazda BT-50 2027.47 reviews
Initially, the vehicle was ok but then I experienced significant electrical issues, problems with the bodywork and the tonneau cover. I do not recommend the Thunder pack at all, its poorly finished and is too cumbersome. Overall I wouldnt rush back to Mazda. Their customer service is terrible, to the point of having only getting a reasonable… Read more
response from them after 9 months of trying and the threat of legal action.
This car was purchased new, used for work and moving of construction materials etc.
#Mazda #Bumpsteer #BT50 – #Bumpsteer #Mazda Australia #Penrith Mazda the 2020-2024 (>aug24) Mazda BT50 has a well-known steering geometry engineering design fault #Bumpsteer, this fault leads to excessive tyre wear. Mazda will apply alignment setting that hide this fault which leads to a very poor steering feel and driving experience. Penrith Mazda do not reply or… Read more
acknowledge this; I have document proof of this. Mazda Australia continually direct owners back to the dealer. Owners have no way to get traction on this with Mazda. Isuzu Utes Australia has begun installing upgraded steering knuckles to the BT50 twin, the Dmax (shared platform).
There is a known engineer design fault, costing owners $$ with tyre wear and ongoing alignments.
Do not trust #Mazda they leave owners in the dark #Bumpsteer
I find this Ute to have a lot of safety tec, the cruise control distance control is great, the lane keeping isn’t ideal on narrow roads bouncing between the lines very unsafe. I fight it and it abruptly gets you off the white lines. So turning that feature off on narrow roads is a must and for avoiding pot holes. The high beam automatic sensing is… Read more
always off can’t be trusted! My dual cab has fully enclosed aluminium tool box, with factory suspension would recommend an upgrade to have 300kg suspension upgrade and an extra leaf added for towing trailers. As is now very floaty and wears Tyers out quickly. Automatic gear box shutters some times when charging down in gears Ute has only done 58400kms / I get 10.5 per 100kms Ute is a diesel 4x2 dual cab. It’s used for work long trips, a lot of stop starts around town, get service done at recommend intervals, Ac is ok works best on full ball, no medium setting basically non existent. Heater is great! Easy to drive park, seats are very comfortable. controls on steering wheel useful and easy to navigate. Touch screen is hard to read and lint gets attracted to it a lot, A dial knob for the radio volume would be much better, mute bottom is quicker then pressing the volume button a million times. Overall it’s behaving its self for now hopefully nothing is wrong with the transmission as it shutters changing down gears sometimes.
Reviews with attachments
- +8
A fine selection of off-road upgrades, but I just like it for the suspension upgrade – It’s the Isuzu D-Max’s chisel jawed cousin, aka the Mazda BT-50. It shares the same hardware as the D-Max, but it gains a few luxurious upgrades AND a more hardcore off-road model. The Thunder is an Australian specific trim that aims to package the most common off-road upgrades buyers would normally opt for in a special edition model. You’re… Read more
looking at standard ute ‘rugged’ build quality. It’s a commercial ute at its origin, so the leather seats, larger touch screen and LED lights are all additional features on an otherwise work-focused ute.
The interior feels ready to be greeted with dust, dirt and sand and feels well put together, however on the exterior of this Thunder model I wasn’t as impressed.
There was a crease in the side decal which would drive me mad if I just paid over $70,000 for this ute. And I found the weather stripping around the front bumper to look a little rough on the eye.
At $71,290 before on road costs, this is the most expensive Mazda ute you can buy…for now.
It packs a few important off-road upgrades, like side steps, a front hoopless bull bar with a lightbar, rear sports bar and upgraded bi-pass suspension.
You’re also getting all the important ‘top trim’ details. Heated seats, a larger centre touch screen, LED lights, a tub-liner, an electric roller cover for the rear tray and 18-inch wheels.
You don't need these upgrades, but they do make off-roading and living with this ute a whole lot easier.
Mazda warranties all of the accessories fitted here along with its standard 5 year/unlimited kilometre warranty. A plus point for those worries about any faulty modifications they might be tempted to do themselves. As pointed out by other experts though, if you pick proper branded accessories, you shouldn’t see any major issues.
Servicing costs are $1493 for 3 years of servicing or $2307 for 5 years. Services occur every 12 months or every 15,000 kilometres.
Road noise is fairly minimal, even on the highway the BT-50 refuses to dramatically increase wind noise. Although that rear sports bar might make strong cross winds a little more noticeable to the ear.
Although this is a top-spec ute, the audio system certainly isn’t. Premium audio would go a long way from the standard speakers which seem to wash out the depth of the music you’re listening to.
Discs on the front wheels, and drums on the rear. That’s the standard ute set-up for brakes, and it’s exactly what the BT-50 Thunder gets.
Supposedly drum brakes are preferred for towing, but for an off-road vehicle like this, I really think rear discs would have been a better option as debris can sometimes enter the drum (like water).
Using Isuzu’s tried and true 3.0L turbocharged diesel inline-four cylinder motor, the BT-50 Thunder ain’t no Ranger Raptor competitor.
Acceleration isn’t the Thunder’s strength, rather it’s a beast at towing and highway cruising. But overtaking on the highway can feel a little laboured.
Producing 140kW and 450Nm and sending power to the rear wheels on the road means the daily drive is easily conquered thanks to a relatively large displacement for a four-cylinder.
Off-road, the Thunder cruises over tough and slippery terrain thanks to that accessible low-down torque.
The six-speed automatic used in the BT-50 is an uncomplicated and easy to operate gearbox. You have low-range available along-side a rear differential lock to help take the BT-50 further off-road too.
Gear changes are obvious but smooth around town, and the ute does a good job of keeping revs low at higher speeds out on the open road.
The upgraded Old Man Emu suspension on this ute was exactly the upgrade I would happily pay money for over the standard BT-50.
The bi-pass shock absorbers offered one of the most comfortable rides in a BT-50/D-MAX I’ve ever experienced. Out on the road the BT-50 refused to slouch through corners as much as it would on standard shocks, and it was as comfortable as your grandma's couch in a straight line.
Off-road, the BT-50 gives you plenty of confidence despite being a high riding truck. I really feel at home in the BT-50, and the upgraded shocks add extra comfort and compliance when conquering the rough stuff.
Claimed fuel consumption is 8L per 100km, which is pretty achievable when driving just yourself and some people and luggage out on the open road. Around town, you’ll see figures closer to 10L per 100km.
Ever since Ford and VW partnered up to drop the hottest utes of 2023, the Isuzu/Mazda team have had their work cut out for them in the interior department.
The BT-50 offers some slightly nicer upgrades, like the luxurious leather trimmed seats. However, this cabin already is feeling a little aged ever since it launched back in 2021 by comparison to something like a Ford Ranger.
It’s a fuss free cabin, with plenty of hard buttons. So those who hate touch screens will appreciate the fact that the main controls for the car are not hidden inside the centre screen.
The rear tray measures in at 5470mm in length, 1790mm in height and 1870mm in width. Max payload in the rear is 887kg.
I used this BT-50 to move a queen size bed frame the week I had it. It managed well, although if you’re constantly hauling long and large items, you’re better off with a van.
For smaller items, it’s a very practical tub that is also secure when you park it thanks to an electronic roller cover. Although I do find it extremely frustrating that the rear tray does not lock with the central locking system of the BT-50.
Rear seats are great for two adults for long trips. Although taller adults might feel a little squished there.
If you don’t have the time, the know-how or the desire to buy a standard BT-50 and modify it your way, well here is your ute.
It’s cool to see Mazda offering a simple solution to buyers who want a one-stop solution when buying a modified ute, with the addition of a factory warranty for all third party parts too.
However, if you don’t fit the first description of a potential buyer. Then I’d say buy a BT-50 that fits your budget and head to reputable brands in the aftermarket to customize your ute. It could end up being cheaper if you don’t need all of the upgrades presented here too.
*Disclaimer - I work for ProductReview as their independent car and motorbike expert. I borrow new cars and motorbikes from manufacturers and owners to review. I am not paid or incentivised by these brands to post reviews. I write and create content to provide insight and information about any new or used vehicle I can get my hands on.
BT-50 The best 4WD Ute I have ever owned – I own a manual dual cab dropside 2022 BT-50. This vehicle is used on a regular basis (at least once a week) to carry loads of 1400kg. I had the GVM upgrade and the ute carry these loads easily. The 3 litre turbo diesel has no problems and works well in hot climates while both carrying and pulling heavy loads. The dropside alloy tray is sturdy… Read more
with the sides easily removed if required. The 4WD capability is as good as any other 4WD drive in this class. Recommend a good all round tyre that can handle general off-road as well as highway driving. The fuel economy is excellent and does vary depending on load being carried / towed. Recommend the long range fuel tank if living g remote or rural. It's better to be looking at the fuel than looking for it!! Downside of the fuel gauge is that it only reads from 70 litres down. The first half of your long range tank the gauge will read as full, so recommend that you also resettable trip meter when refuelled. Recommend that you also jump on the BT-50 Owners facebook page and purchase yourself a second spare tyre for those longer remote trips. I regularly use this vehicle for regular family camping trips where distances of 2000km are the norm. All in all I highly recommend the current BT-50 as a family dual cab utility that will exceed your expectations.
excellent value and quality – had this ute for 3 months and i love it. its used as a daily driver i drive the hilux navara and ranger old model in my job they dont compair to the BT-50 in comfort quiet inside the cabin and fuel economy. i dont have a problem with the safty features as my previous cars have had them and are no way as aggressive as the toyota hilux Show details
Rear Tub leaking heaps – Brand new with canopy, first day not under cover when rained and whole rear tub flooded soaking drawers, fridge, multiple tools including my electrical gear and already wasted over 6 hours on the issue with other visits needed. MY QUESTIONs 1. when a canopy is put on any Ute should it let water in from any location? Not dripping - Full puddles. … Read more
2.should a tub (without canopy) be sealed and welded throughout or do they normally have gaps between floor and walls where daylight and rain and even my middle finger can fit through
Positive reviews
Battery replacement – 2022 Bt50 with all accessories (Draws with fridge, AGM battery hooked up, UHF, Front and Rear camera). - Almost through my 2nd main battery. 2x auto electricians, company that installed the AGM and draws, company that installed the cameras can't work out why. They all feel that the alternator isn't producing enough volts to the main battery.… Read more
Saying this a good mate with the same car (3 months newer) has had his alternator replaced by Mazda and is still having the same issues on his car. Any thoughts.
Breaking system – The car at this point has proven to be everything promised but I wasn’t told about the braking assist. Very bad idea, dangerous to other drivers. The car makes you keep your distance. That allows others to fill gap the the car applies the brakes forcing everyone behind you to break and the gap in front of you doesn’t justify the brake being used. You end up being a bad driver. 3 times it has coursed me to experience others wrath. Show details · 1
Great vehicle – Have had my TF BT50 GT for 2.5 years and 62000km, mostly highway driving and almost no off road. I have not had to do any repairs other than 3 windscreens, which is no fault of the vehicle as I seem to be a rock magnet at the moment. Good fuel economy. I get 8 litres per 100km which ever way I drive although I don't tow. Andriod auto works… Read more
perfectly. Comfortable on long trips. Still have the original tyres and I think I could get another 10000km out of them as long as I rotate. Quiet when cruising but as others have said if you put your foot down it can be a bit noisy. I see plenty of people complaining about the autonomous safety features and whilst I did find them annoying to start with I found that when I changed my driving style ( arguably to a safer less aggressive style ) they intruded a whole lot less. I would still like the option to pick which safety features I could permanently turn off though. Love the radar cruise control. Cons. Expensive windscreens, about 1K to replace as the cameras need calibrated each time. The windscreen washers are poor. Glove box can be a bit sticky. Head rest can not be adjusted horizontally (front to back) Thats really the only things that have frustrated me. All in all I'm very happy with it. I'm usually a Toyota fan but we have hilux Ute's at work and the BT50 is much nicer to drive, way better on fuel and requires less servicing. ( every 10000km for a hilux. 15000km for the BT50.
Negative reviews
just bad – ive put 40,000 on my 2023 BT50 i had a 2017 befor this it was good, i decided to get a new one, the adaptive cruse is dangerous it speeds and pulse brakes, the auto lane assist has tried to kill me, it detects round abouts as cars and stalls and leave you in the intersection, the seats are uncomfortable and infotainment system sucks slow boot up and small screen no not buy Show details
A mind if it's own – I bought this car, extra cab in May 2022, I put extra suspension 2' lift kit. Hoping to travel around Australia. My first trip was from Parkenham Vic to bundy Qld. It drove like crap, it had a mind of its own, warning lights coming on all the time. It keep telling me my seat belt wasn't on. It has a flat spot when you take off, also not good when… Read more
towing a caravan. (but Mazda know about the flat spot in these vehicles, as they told me when I asked about it.) It would brake for me which is not the best when towing a caravan. It just doesn't have the power to tow a 2.5t caravan going up a hill, (not a very steep hill at that) sitting under 75kph, a 3lt diesel you have to be kidding me. Being an auto you have to Manuel shift as it revs it's tits off. When I got back after 4450klms I used 1 liter of oil. This is a brand new car off the show room floor 1 lt of oil in the first 4000 k's . The service Centre has no idea why it would use oil.? They changed the oil new filter, measured what was taken out and put in. It's now at 10000ks and I've used half a liter, no smoke, no leaks. I called my car Christine, as it has a mind of its own. Not going to lie, it's not the best car I have every own. If I could give it back I would in a heart beat.
Fuel economy is shocking – I put an empty 8x5 trailer on and I instantly lose 3.4 klm per litre or 12.5 lts per hundred klms which then brings my range down to just over 500 klm per tank , trailer weighs 250 kg . I put my pop top van on behind it which weighs 2100 kg an it drops 4.4 klm per litre . I can under stand it dropping with van that much but not with with a empty… Read more
box trailer even the van is a big drop as the Isuzu motor was rated best economy for towing . Have had it in an out of dealer ship an case raised with Mazda but they reckon within specs which is a load of rubbish as sane model Isuzu getting much better economy . Not sure if true but been told mazda took on motor but no the there fuel management system . Only done 7000 klms an thinking of trading in on a Isuzu as getting no support from Mazda or there dealer ship on Fraser coast qld . Very disappointed
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Recent reviews
Great ute, electronics need work – Overall, I am very happy with the new auto BT I bought in December 2022. Traded in the 2014 manual XTR. I find it surprising that dealers / brands (not just Mazda) can sell vehicles allegedly rated above 750kg towing without including a brake controller. Like others commenting here, the autonomous braking system has locked me up in traffic because… Read more
a car was turning left off my left quarter - not even in front of me! The "BRAKE" warning has come up when a hawk has swooped in front of the car. Yes, I turn the lane departure off, too. Truck tracks fool it and it wants to send me into oncoming traffic! The Bluetooth system forgets my phone and playing music via Bluetooth lasts about 20 minutes and I have to disconnect and reconnect. It is the third decade of the 21st Century, right? Not good. I am hoping that Mazda read these posts and a software update is in the wind.
Nice ute but a few issues – Purchased March 2021 and now done almost 25,000km. This is a farm ute. No major issues except the mice like the wiper blades and, like other people say, the "take key" bell is really, really annoying when you are jumping in and out of the vehicle all day on the farm. Even after 2 years, that bell still drives me nuts. Also, I think it is a bit… Read more
soft for a farm ute. I don't know how long the plastic rear bumper will last the rigors of paddock work and sticks etc. And the front plastic bumper scratched easily until I got a bull bar. So far I don't put it through the same paces in the paddock that I did with my previous ute - 2003 Hilux.
Excellent Vehicle – Purchased this vehicle in January 2021 From Penrith Mazda as a Cab Chassis, Dual Cab with a aluminium builders tray and to this day I am Totally satisfied with my purchase. I am a Builder and use the car for both Business and pleasure. No problems carrying weight but you have to be sensible. The car now has almost 55,000 klm and touch wood all is… Read more
good. Lovely vehicle to drive and the motor and auto box are a great combination with good fuel economy. It took me a little while to adjust myself to all the safety equipment because it was all new to me but good now. The only thing I do not like is the Autonomous Emergency Braking as it seems to be very sensitive but I have got used to that as well. To sum it up, Extremely happy.
The best feature of the 2021 Mazda BT50 is not Mazda – 30,000kms and 2 reviews on, my 2021 4WD Crew Cab/Chassis Mazda BT50 has become more annoying to drive as time goes on due to sagging, shopping trolley quality suspension, an auto gear-box that continually 'hunts' between 5th and 6th gear at its optimum, highway cruising speed, not to mention the so-called driver assist tech that: - Re-sets itself… Read more
back to 'on' when the vehicle is stopped/started requiring one to re-enter the tech menu to cancel it every time. - The lane assist tech doesn't allow 'apexing' of corners without system induced steering movement and has no tolerance for narrow roads, merge lines or other road markings. Unlike the Ford Ranger, there is no external switch on the BT50 to turn it off. - Applies emergency braking, including alarms and lights on detection off a small shrub, drain or log on or near a track. This nonsense feature has the potential to directly/indirectly contribute to an accident if activated on a steep slippery surfaces causing the vehicle to loose traction. - Incorporates a very clunky, user unfriendly entertainment system menu. I use the BT50 for normal on road and recreational 4W driving and carry about 100kgs of camping gear in 2 alloy 'tradie' boxes on the tray. Since I purchased the vehicle in March 2021, and my last (2nd) review, the Clyde Mazda Service Manager who, to his credit, acknowledged the suspension issue (40mm of spring sag) and basically advised there was little probably of a successful suspension warranty claim. If a claim was successful, only factory springs would be fitted and the same sag could be expected. I also floated the idea of paying for an full, after market OME suspension kit if Mazda could cover labour, unfortunately that ideal also fell flat. So, it looks like I either a put up with the crap tech, gearbox and suspension, pay $3,500 for an after market kit or, get rid of the vehicle altogether. On a more positive note, the best feature of the 2021 Mazda BT50 is not the Mazda..... Its the 3L Isuzu engine which is great engine. Suspension, gearbox and tech, very disappointing to the point I think getting rid of the vehicle may be the best option......and letting as many people know why. Rossco
50,000kms on, $3,000 spent on TJM suspension and, a software upgrade by the good people at Clyde… Read more
Not Happy Jan – Unfortunately the canopy leaks all the time into the rear tub - they haven’t been able to find exact locations. It has been in 4 times for a resolution. It appears all glass has gaps with rubbers, especially the back window. Hoping fifth time lucky ? Show details
Love this vehicle. A great all rounder – Love my Mazda BT50 GT. I sold a 2017 ISUZU ute with low kms (traded it for more than I paid!), a VW Touareg V8 and Porsche Boxster. All great cars but I got sick of cleaning them, insuring, servicing etc etc. I live in the bush and wanted a comfortable, reliable, tough, off road capable vehicle with lots of storage. Purchased my Mazda from Ron… Read more
Doyle Motors, Mazda Dealer, in Eden, NSW in March 2021. Best car I have ever had - maybe other than the Porsche! Great service. I have done about 30,000kms. Ron Doyle Motors are professional and organised. Service required once a year. Considered similar Isuzu X-Terrain but did not want it due to its rear sliding canopy. The Mazda is a great all rounder. Has a bit more bling. Got MAZDA bull bar, a Mazda rear canopy, ARB light bar, tow bar, 3.5 tonne towing electric brakes, a TJM rear steel bar (no one else seems to make them. TJM excellent), gas lifters for tailgate, and especially a fully sealed addition to the canopy (NO dust or water gets in) - excellent. The car is easy to drive (my wife loves driving it), lots of luxury with leather and large sat nav etc. The adaptive cruise control is excellent. My only initial concern were all the lane departure warnings, sensors etc and the car pulling you back into your lane. At first I found this annoying but after nearly two years I now realise these safety features are in fact just that - safe. I do a lot of country driving and it is amazing how good the safety features are. I can carry five people at a pinch, four is better. But for my wife and I it is excellent. Put the rear seat down and fill that space up as well as use all the space in the rear. I sometimes tow a two tonne boat which is a dream. I would not want to tow 3.5 tonnes! 2.5 tonnes ideal. 3.0 tonnes at a pinch. I have put good quality off road tyres on it after 20,000kms. Much safer than standard tyres. Overall the car is a great buy. Amazing I could sell it for more than I paid! A terrific purchase. It has never missed a beat.
Canopy Leaking – Purchased mine in January had a 6mth wait before taking delivery Canopy rubbers not fitted correctly rear window of canopy not squarely fitted water leaks into tub area Canopy not fitted to squarely to the tub My concerns are where was quality control on the manufacture of the canopy On inspecting the canopy by the dealer they have found that… Read more
the seals were not fitted correctly the canopy measurements are out of spec up to approximately 20mm in places. My concerns are where was the Pre-inspection before fitting and after. Through out much discussion between the dealer and Mazda who was going to take responsibility Mazda finially agreed to replacement I have looked EGR forum and this seems to be a problem with this canopy Apart from the canopy I am relatively happy with the car as a whole
Regrettable purchase – The factory suspension is a disgrace. Only suitable for very light duties on good roads. No way can this ute safely carry its rated payload with the factory springs. I had to spend $3,500 replacing the whole suspension. The electronic gizzmos are a nightmare. It constantly screams at me for doing normal things like key in the ignition and door… Read more
open. Lane assist is just dangerous. I have taped over both cameras on the outside of the windscreen. Autonomous braking should be illegal - it puts the brakes on when I drive under a low branch. And which genius invented the rear proximity warning? Obviously someone who never towed a trailer. Reversing a trailer is accompanied by a loud scream warning me that I am going to run into it! The cabin is claustrophobic and the driving experience is mundane. The dust sealing is inadequate. I really regret my decision to buy this ute.
Good tow vehicle – Interior of GT is very good, I like the seating in particular. It effortlessly tows to its maximum. Very good economy while towing. I don't like the lane keeping and you cannot turn it off. Dealer has offered to permanently disable it. Adaptive cruise control is great. Some engine noise when accelerating but pleasingly quiet when cruising. Show details
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Frustrating piece of junk – Unfortunately I purchased a new bt50 thinking it would be as good as my old one. This new one is the biggest pice of junk I’ve owned. Compared to my old 09 bt50 the ride quality is terrible, fuel consumption is slightly higher & even though it’s meant to have more power it seems slower & sluggish. The auto transmission sometimes holds gears for… Read more
too long around town, but at higher speeds it’s always changing between 5th & 6th. Luckily mine has the update that lets me turn of lane keep assist with one button, but unfortunately there’s no easy way to turn off the autonomous braking which seems apply itself randomly when you pass vehicles using a turning lane.
Great Ute - when it's working! – 2021 BT-50 GT - purchased late 2021 I have very mixed opinions about this vehicle I love it when it's working correctly and not sending me flying into my dash from the Automatic Emergency Brake coming on for sometimes no reason whatsoever that is visible to the human eye. It even goes off when you're going down a minor dip on a regular road.… Read more
Adjusting the sensitivity does nothing to remedy this. And then there's the Lane Keep Assist - but Mazda have remedied that at least by mapping it to the steering wheel for easier access (if you ask for it, they won't contact you and offer it to you which I find wrong) This ute rides beautifully - the transmission and engine provide an impressive, smooth experience. The seats are extremely comfortable, and all round a good ute to own - ONCE THE PROBLEMS ARE SORTED:
For quite some time now, there has been a very serious problem coming from the steering system - and I am informed by Mazda there are quite a few of us with the same problem, some owners in the country have had multiple steering racks installed and the problem is still persisting. This is not a minor problem, and this is coming from a ute that is stock + babied from day 1 - no offroad, nothing. There is a loud noise that comes from both Tyre area + through the steering wheel itself when turning at any speed but especially noticeable when going at low speeds, it is significantly harder to turn the vehicle one way compared to the other. It is terrible to drive currently. I am told Mazda are looking into a repair for the steering rack itself rather than suggesting the dealership keeps replacing them as the part itself may well be faulty from factory. Surely this seems like a major issue for many owners? I feel like other BT-50 owners should be informed about this, as its becoming more and more common - according to dealer. It has certainly put a dark cloud over my "new car experience"
This car is amazing – Just got my BT-50 sp and we love it so roomy so good todrive a missive step up from the Mitsubishi asx we had and the tail gate room is great too can fit a full 3 suit case you lus a curry on and a esky too (if a had a new esky ) Show details
Do not buy a BT50 – 21 BT50 19000 kms used for camping, off road and commuting. At about 7000kms it went into limp mode and was picked up on tilt tray and taken to Darwin Mazda, although I had used mazda roadside assist Darwin mazda new nothing about why the car came in so it sat there for 4-5 hours until I enquired about the progress on fixing the problem. This… Read more
just caused a delay and extended the time I was without a vehicle. I was told it required a software update (really, on a new car??). At about 18000kms while driving on a dirt road up in the Gulf country we somehow broke the rear diff lock actuator off. This was not warranty as it was impact damage. The Nathan River road is not that bad really so I was a bit surprised this happened. The car went in for a new actuator to be fitted and this is where things got really bad. The new diff lock actuator didn't work and I was told a ring in the diff was damaged, this turned out to be the whole diff centre. The part was ordered and the replacement part arrived but was damaged. Then I was told there were no more in the country and another part was coming from overseas, no eta. I asked if the old diff centre could be put back inbut they could not guarantee that further damage wouldn't occur and at my cost for 3 hours labour. I declined the offer thinking it wont be long before the new part arrives. About 4 - 5 weeks later I was told another part was on the way by road, but it was lost in transit. The dealer has had my car for 7 weeks by now. A new part was ordered and put on air freight but it was delayed and lost and eventually found and put in 9 weeks after my initial booking. At no time in the 9 weeks did there seem to be any urgency to get my car back on the road. So 9 weeks and $5000 later at my cost they got my car finished. No one would take responsibility and everyone just blamed someone else. I was surprise they had to actually replaced the diff centre and not just a part in the diff as I was initially told. How the diff was damaged and why the actual diff was replaced I do not know. My dissatisfaction is mainly with the dealer but the fact the car broke so easily is also disappointing. I have since purchased and installed a diff lock actuator guard and I recommend everyone to do the same (Mazda do not).
Love our BT50 – We've now owned our 2021 BT50 for a year and done 23,000km including 8,000 towing a van and the rest involving normal running around and city driving. In this time the car has been faultless and very capable at everything. It's great on fuel, comfortable, roomy, has decent power and tows our van or boat effortlessly. Mazda after sales support… Read more
and servicing is excellent. A lot of people seem to mention the safety stuff, which can take a few drives to get used to, but you can adjust all the settings in the menu to lessen their input and Mazda now do an update which makes it even less sensitive if preferred. After a year I think it's a fantastic car, we've looked after it, the paint still shines and we still love it.
First World Problems – Ute has just had its 1K km check done at dealer. I purchased ute (4x2 Extended Cab Chassis) only a couple of weeks ago & use it daily in a freight business (Mon-Fri) & for my own personal use on weekends in Australia. No off-roading just bitumen driving & maybe a few good dirt roads. Safety systems are numerous & I deliberately left them all on… Read more
for the first 1,000km just to get the full effect & experience so I could evaluate for myself. Notwithstanding the many poor reviews regarding how the vehicle behaves when driving, I must say that the 2022 model must have improved as I’ve found the feedback the ute gives you is minor. I actually don’t mind the gentle nudge you feel when getting to close to edge of road lanes & whilst there are numerous beeps whilst driving, I used them as a way to recognise why they went off in an effort to evaluate what to retain or turn off. You can long press a button on steering wheel to turn off some of the safety features & if you take a bit of time to go through the settings (whilst having the telephone size book Owners Manual at hand) you can permanently disable other beeps & chimes that you don’t wish to hear. In fact you can choose to turn off beeps & leave display warnings or turn them all off but this option doesn’t apply to all safety features only some. I’ve found that my infotainment system works well, Bluetooth connects every time although it takes a good 30 sec for Car Play to connect plus there are a few issues that I’ve noticed to date. These being that although Car Play is connected, music doesn’t always start from iPhone, sometimes you have to go to screen to press play although radio always works. Same thing when disconnecting from a phone call via hands free, Car Play is on but system won’t play any music as system says phone call is still being made even though it’s clearly finished. I’ve tried everything to cancel the call from Car Play plus actual iPhone as well but found only turning the ute off clears the fault - clearly not an option when driving. I do use a Bluetooth earpiece whilst driving so not sure if this is somehow interfering with the inbuilt Bluetooth in the ute but it doesn’t always happen (approx 10% of time). My biggest bug bear is the acknowledgment of the safety message on welcome screen on the infotainment system. You have to press OK & acknowledge the message every single time you turn the ute on. This becomes tiresome very quickly & clearly should have an option within settings to disable & simply allow the system to turn on so that you can enjoy your music automatically. Within settings you have the option of turning off (potentially) life saving warnings & on the steering wheel to turn off other life saving assistance but you can’t turn off a moronic safety message. It’s the small things that really make a difference to a drivers enjoyment of a vehicle & this to me is a real pain in the butt. Another chime that can’t be turned off in settings is when you open the drivers door & the key is still in the ignition (engine has been turned off). There’s a warning message in the dash to remind you to take your key out. This warning is all well & good for a consumer driver but not for a working ute when doors need to be left open temporarily, especially in Extended Cab version I purchased when utilising the area behind front seats. As mentioned - First World Problems. I applaud Mazda for their extensive suite of safety features in their utes & for their commitment to safety overall, definitely a major plus for us drivers in Aus. I’d just ask that Mazda offer the driver the option to either turn each feature on or off & not force the driver to simply accept what some boffin in a glass tower has decided is acceptable. This would’ve saved all the negative feedback & subsequent upgrade to the 2021 models safety features. On the positive side the ute is great to drive, feels very responsive, handles well with a load in the back. It’s great to have a reverse camera, I added a tow bar kit from Mazda but added a purpose built steel tray from a 3rd party manufacturer. The rear sensors really help in tight situations when reversing & view is restricted. On of the best features in this ute is the adaptive cruise control. Kudos to the inventor of this system. Once you get used to what this does to assist you in everyday driving, it’s a real game changer, just love it.
Great ute 3.2 xtr 2020 – I have had this ute since August 2020 and done 50,000km it still going good service regularly and it runs great. Quick pick up quiet on road, lots of power. Love it. Show details
Buyer beware. Terrible "safety" features, paint scratches like nothing else, clutch noises – Had a 2020 new model/shape BT50 for 13mths. Pros: -punchy -quiet on the road (if you can put up with beeping and warning systems!) -towed well Cons: -Mazda Australia only provide lip service about the woeful "safety" features.... Lane control, cameras, auto braking, sensors are all very dangerous. Nothing short of dismal in fact. Will pick up… Read more
things which are irrelevant on the road and then jam on brakes and swerve for no reason. Hated this stuff. Constantly beeping at something. Very difficult and frustrating to turn off without a simple button like other cars. -paint scratches exceptionally easily and panels dent with minimal pressure. -high beams are really not great -ugly old style park lights -after market mods really expensive
Don't buy this car if you drive on country roads! – The Lane Departure Prevention system makes driving this car on country roads down-right dangerous. This is a quote from the manual "In the following situations, do not use the system because an accident may unexpectedly occur. It may not be able to properly control the vehicle because the lane cannot be recognised. - General roads, -roads with… Read more
curves, -old lane markings, -avoiding a stationary vehicle, -crack or repair mark on the road, etc." Unlike other brands we own, the LDP system cannot be turned off, except by going through a series of settings EVERY SINGLE TIME YOU TURN ON THE KEY! Mazda say they are working on a fix, but it has obviously been a long time coming. How hard is it to make it default to off instead of on?
DO NOT BUY A MAZDA BT50 GT WITH LEATHER SEATS OR ANY MAZDA – I purchased a Mazda BT50 GT 4x4 Dual Cab on the 24.08.21 In December 2021 I noticed in the middle of the drivers seat there was a small area where it appeared that the seat had some sought of coating that was lifting or coming off. By January 2022 the area had increased to roughly the size of a dinner plate. The car was 4 months old and travelled… Read more
only 4,900k’s I’m a Senior driver who takes a lot of pride in my cars It is not a work vehicle. I took it to the selling dealer who was more then helpful and took photos etc and ask me what did I use to clean the seats and I explained the car is new and I have wipe the seats over once with a damp cloth. So they sent there report off to Mazda Australia and both the dealer and myself were in shock when Mazda said it is not a manufacturer fault so it’s not warranty. The dealer was so apologetic and explained they are in disbelief that Mazda will not repair it. The dealer told me to contact Mazda Australia customer care. I was hoping by talking with Mazda that they would rectify the problem I rang them and explained the seat falling apart and there representative said it not a manufacturer fault. I explained my BT50 has only done 4,900ks and it is 4 to 5 months old Soooo how could this happen ??? The representative abruptly told me if I don’t like his answer I should go to Dept of Fair Trading ( are you serioussssssss) I told him I have been in the Motor Trade for over 40 yrs have owned all brands of cars with leather trim as well as some cars having huge speedo readings and I have never seen a car do this. I have bought a Brand new Mazda BT50 GT with the accessories I fitted the retail price was close to $66,000 to have it fall apart in the first 4 months and have no support I am in shock. SO PLEASE PLEASE DO NOT BUY A MAZDA BT50 IT IS NOT WORTH THE STRESS THIS POOR BUILD QUALITY VEHICLE WILL GIVE YOU.
Shitbox – Done 7000 kms on my brand new bt-50 before driving it on sand for 2 hours, somehow the front dif has blown a hole in itself and 4x4 wouldn’t work. Mazda says they’ll pay for everything yet I’m stuck in the middle of no where for weeks without a courtesy car or accommodation. Camping on the side of the road waiting for them to find me a hire car Show details
Sensors do your head in – I Have now 7000km on my ute an there are a few issues that need to be said. 1)The steering assist sensors are a pain in the head and you can turn it off, but when you start the car its back on. Upon lane detecting it dulls the mobile phone and your caller asks, "what is that". And then an alarm gives you the hell while it goes off. It is the most… Read more
annoying feature and if the car feels your not in the lane it bucks you back in. 2)The emergency braking is not safe, it can get you into trouble if it thinks your going to have a crash it rips the brakes on, it scares the hell out of you if your not prepared for it. Again tried to turn off would it does until you start the car again very annoying. 3)The fuel consumption mode reports 12L per 100km and up to 16L unloaded, I don't know why its so thirsty on the freeway. 4) The GPS by phone is not the best if it looses signal so does your gps. You cant beat the dedicated GPS.
Other than that ride, comfort and steering is really Good.
Not so impressed – Technology is overwhelming in city driving Turns itself off when required such as extreme weather or loads in tray , 20 bags of concrete will disable Other than that its not a bad workhorse Show details
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Note Mazda are going to replace the canopy and see what the problem is with the other issues.