FirstDrive:Mazda BT-50 Mazda's new addition to the pick-up market is a reliable workhorse with family car comfort, writes Paddy Comyn
The days when pick-up trucks were bought out of pure necessity are without doubt a thing of the past. For years in the US, the pick-up truck has been the staple diet of its drivers, with models such as Ford. In 2006 the Ford F-Series pick-up and the Chevrolet Silverado were number one and two respectively but this is likely to change due to an increase in petrol prices and a move away from SUVs.
As we reported earlier this month, sales of pick-ups here in Ireland have doubled compared to the same period last year thanks to a raft of new models offering greater comfort and style than before.
These days pick-up owners can brag about great common-rail diesel engines, air conditioning, alloy wheels and leather upholstery for their pick-up trucks and as most now come with the option of a double cab, they can serve a dual purpose as a workhorse and a family car.
The latest model to arrive is the new Mazda BT-50. Mazda has sold 110,000 of these in Europe in a previous guise, but recognising the demand for more comfort in this sector, the new model is a world away from the model it replaces.
Visually, the Mazda looks a lot like the Ford Ranger with which it shares a lot of common ground and while our test model looked quite basic, there are a multitude of add-ons and adornments that are so important to buyers in this segment. The double cab version has two front seats and three bench-type rear seats. The new model has a longer body than before, taller door panels and cargo box sides.
Inside the quality and finish is much better than before and you would be forgiven for thinking you were in a passenger car. The seats are larger than before and are more comfortable and a new air conditioning system was icy cold on one of Ireland's hottest days.
On the road the BT50 is very easy to drive and manoeuvre. The steering is light enough and while the chassis system is the same as before, the suspension system has been upgraded to give passenger car comfort. There has also been extensive engine and wind noise reduction, combined with more insulation, for lower cabin noise.
Under the bonnet is a newly developed MZR-CD 2.5-litre common-rail turbo diesel, producing 143bhp and 330Nm of torque which feels very strong.
It offers better performance than the previous version while managing better fuel economy.
The BT50 is capable of up to 3,000kg towing capacity and the bed is very easy to access and the four-wheel drive system is straightforward to use.
We put the BT50 through its paces and it passed with flying colours.
Looking the way it did, our test car would not push the buttons of those who buy the Isuzu D-max and Toyota Hilux. Owners of these like the large alloy wheels, side steps and chrome bits that are lacking on the BT50. However on its own merits this is a really easy to use and bound-to-be reliable workhorse that will double as a family car without too much compromise.
Factfile: Mazda BT-50
Engines: 2,499cc diesel with 143bhp and 330Nm torque
Fuel Economy: 4x2 - 8.3 l/100km, 4x4 - 8.9 l/100km
CO2 emissions: 4x2 - 227g/km, 4x4 - 244g/km
Performance: 4x2 - 0-100km/h in 10.4 secs, 4x4 - 0-100km/h in
11.9 secs
Max Speed: 4x2 - 170km/h, 4x4 - 158km/h
On sale: Now
Prices: BT-50 4x2 single cab: €17,495; BT-50 4x4 single
cab: €21,495; BT-50 4x4 single cab ABS: €21,945; BT-50
4x4 double cab: €28,995; BT-50 4x4 double cab ABS:
€29,400