Mazda has finally launched its new BT-50 in the very competitive South African pick-up market. Does this vehicle have what it takes to take on the other competitors in this segment and can it dethrone its Ford Ranger cousin or the VW Amarok as the default lifestyle choice? Kelly Lodewyks drives it to find out.
EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR
I will admit that my initial reaction to the Mazda BT-50 wasn’t a positive one. But now I’ve changed my mind. After spending a full day in the vehicle and looking at it from all angles, it has grown on me and I quite like the smiling face.The BT-50’s distinctive looks are the result of Mazda’s new Kodo design language, which takes its cues from nature, and in this case the lion. It’s a look that will soon be seen across the Mazda range and it definitely helps the BT-50 stand out from the crowd. Even the oddly shaped tail lamps don’t seem too bad now that I’m used to them.
Inside, I found the cabin to be spacious and airy. The design execution gives the BT-50 a car-like feel. There are creature comforts that one would expect only on more upmarket hatchbacks or saloons, as well as a wide variety of convenience and safety features (download a full spec sheet here). Due to the standard fitment of a height-adjustable driver’s seat and rake/reach-adjustment for the steering wheel, finding a comfortable driving position is easy. During my drive the rear seat was occupied by a rather tall gentleman, who commented positively on the spaciousness and comfort.
ON THE ROAD
The BT-50 shares its underpinnings, engines and transmissions with the Ford Ranger, so I had high hopes when I got behind the wheel. We were able to sample a few derivatives on the launch, but my pick of the bunch is the 110 kW 2,2-litre diesel with 375 N.m of torque. Mated with a six-speed manual transmission, this unit proved to be punchy and smooth in delivering its power. Maximum torque is available from low down in the rev range (1 500 r/min), so there is quite a bit of punch from early on and it’s easy to pick up speed and keep up the momentum from there. Gear shifts were notchy, but I expect this kind of feel in a bakkie. Travel between gears is perhaps a tad too short for my liking, but all it takes is some getting used to.
The suspension set-up is of double wishbone and coil springs at the front and a rigid axle with leaf springs at the rear. Being a 4×2 vehicle, we weren’t able to tackle any 4×4 routes, but we did venture onto some gravel and rough road surfaces. You could feel the bumps, of course, but it wasn’t uncomfortable – it’s the type of firm ride that you would expect of a bakkie. Those wondering whether or not this 4×2 is capable of handling some modest off-road terrain without too much of a hassle will be happy to know that this particular model comes fitted with a rear diff lock, so that should you find yourself in a sticky situation, there’s a way to get the torque to the spinning wheel and get the vehicle back in motion again.
SUMMARY
The BT-50 is built on the Ranger platform and, therefore, I expected it to be as impressive. And it was. It doesn’t possess the same rugged look of the Ranger, but it certainly sits right up there when it comes to strong engines and an overall leisurely feel. It took me a while to get used to it, but now I really like the styling. Hopefully the motoring public will give it a chance to grow on them and realise that it shouldn’t be overlooked.
SPECIFICATIONS
Price: R372 760
Engine: in-line, four-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Power: 110 kW @ 3 700 r/min
Torque: 375 N.m @ 1 500 – 2 500 r/min
CO2: 199 g/km
Service plan: 5 year/90 000 km
For more information on the BT-50 range, click here.
