This Big Truck is the top of the line dual cab /
workhorse. Pricing first up could have some reservation starting from
$43550 Australian . But for the top of the range this isn't bad. Usual
configuration of 4 doors and 5 seats.
The Engine is up there with Holden . This Mazda
engine is a 3 ltre 4 cylinder. Power wise this 4x4 Mazda produces 115Kw @ 3200
rpm.( Torque 380 Nm) Unlike the Holden this is only at this stage available in 5
speed manual.
For the spec nuts the dimensions here are:
Length 5169 mm
width 1807
height 1762
wheelbase 3000
front track 1475
rear track 1470
And never forget ground clearance of 207 cm not bad but
that of course is unladen.
Kerb weight 1854 kg
Fuel tank 70 litres
TOWING 3000 KG (3 Tonne)
Mazda has in the last 10-15 years has produced commercial
vehicles that seem to hold their own with reliability.
Also I will note that to drive these older Mazda 4x4
vehicles in a city environment they seemed to be a tiny bit more user
friendly. Maneuverability nicer cabin finish and lighter clutch operation.
Dare I sound like a male chauvinistic
but the wife would prefer a older Mazda ute over lets say
the old faithful 1991 2.4 diesel hilux.
Fuel consumption 8.5 ltrs/100km seems to be normal
although the factory testing claims 9.2lt/100.
The rear area is important, 1530 mm
long x 1456 mm wide (has limited tie downs 4) This tray size is bigger
than most..
For this review I have not hit the cosmetic features too
much , yes they are there more chrome bits a bigger looking cabin,
aircond power steer, a damn under dash handbrake and expected features . In this
market of 4x4 dual cab Nissan and Holden tend to seem to offer more in the
extras department.
In summary the BT-50 SDX is a nice looking package
priced ok for a vehicle made in Thailand and some good off road 4x4 features.
Its drivability on the road is very good with good open road speed and
acceleration .
This is one vehicle you would have to line up in your
consideration of a new dual cab 4x4.
Consider carefully this is one vehicle you need to go
away and think about before you purchase, unless you just love
Mazda.
Me, I will take the blue healer out of the back ,
put in the wife's poodle and head into the city.
BT stands for many things just as the advertising
campaign suggests.
