Used Mazda BT-50 buying guide
Built on the same platform as the Ford Ranger, the Mazda BT-50 ute shares a lot of the rugged workhorse qualities of the Aussie favourite. It’s known for its impressive versatility and off-road capabilities, and gets a lot of style points for its sleek, modern design. As a well-rounded ute, the Mazda BT-50 offers powerful diesel engines, enjoyable 4WD experience, and advanced safety features all in one practical package. Overall, a used Mazda BT-50 is a popular choice for anyone who wants a capable ute that can do it all.
At a glance
What to look out for when buying a used Mazda BT-50
Between all the options from single or dual cab, auto or manual transmission, 2WD or 4WD, there are technically dozens of versions to choose from when buying a used Mazda BT-50. Here’s a quick look at some key features:
Single or dual cab
Base model XT comes as a single, freestyle, or dual cab, while the XTR and GT are dual cab only. So what’s the difference? Single cab utes are usually more work-oriented, made for hauling cargo or equipment to and from job sites. They usually come with cargo trays, making them flexible to customise for equipment installations or storage boxes. Dual cab utes however, are highly practical for you to do a bit of everything. From work sites to beach days, the dual cab Mazda BT-50 XTR or GT can both take you there with ease. The longer roof length of a dual cab ute is also perfect for camping canopies or roof racks.
The freestyle cab that’s offered on the XT and XTR models provides an option that sits in the middle of single and dual cab. It’s also known as a super cab, extra cab, or king cab. The freestyle cab has doors that open outwards like a cupboard, made for extra space and easy loading.
Cab chassis or pickup
For the cab chassis option, choose the Mazda BT-50 XT or XTR models. This gets you full customisation capabilities to install anything you need for work. Or you could just need a simple cab tray setup to carry cargo. Either way, you’ll be able to find used Mazda BT-50 utes that work for you, whether you need steel trays with drawers or toolbox canopies.
Pickup utes offer a bit of everything, flexible for both work and play. They also usually provide more torque for towing and more optimised for off-roading. For all the versatility and durability that a pickup ute delivers, experience the Mazda BT-50 XT, XTR, or GT.
Towing capacity
The Mazda BT-50 2.2L single cab chassis XT model has a braked towing capacity of up to 2500 kg, while the rest of the range goes up to 3500 kg. Before hooking up your boat, caravan, or trailer to your ute, be sure to check the capacities and weights that you’re towing, and keep everything balanced and stable. For towing safety, trailer sway control comes in handy for adjusting braking and torque to correct any swinging of towed loads.
AWD/4WD
All BT-50 models are 4x2 or 4x4, except for the GT model which is 4x4 only. 2WD models are great for commuting to and from job sites, with a 2.2L turbocharged engine that delivers all the power that you need. Plus, with the lighter weight compared to the 4WD model you could also save on fuel and running costs. So for a
If you are going off-road though, the 4WD models would be your obvious choice. You’ll get enhanced manoeuvrability and power on rough terrains or steep inclines, and the ability to switch easily from 2WD to 4WD. On the console there’s also features like electronic locking rear differential, stability control, and hill descent control that are built for exploring rugged landscapes.
What safety features do used Mazda BT-50s have?
Across the range, you’ll find that Mazda is big on safety. All Mazda BT-50 models since 2011 were rated 5-stars by ANCAP Safety, and it all comes down to Mazda’s commitment to safety. It starts with a rigid chassis with side impact door beams, a well-equipped cabin with a suite of airbags, three-point seatbelts, and child seat anchors. Other safety features include roll stability control, load adaptive control, anti-locking braking system, hill launch assist, and traction control system. Used Mazda BT-50 utes were also chosen as a ‘safer pick’ by the NSW Centre for Road Safety.
What are the perks of buying a used Mazda BT-50?
Buying a used Mazda BT-50 skips the initial depreciation that new cars go through, so it’s a cost-effective option that can hold its value more steadily. There’s plenty of used Mazda BT-50 options to go through, and you’re bound to find one that works for you, whether you need tow bars, roof racks, weather shields or more. Mazda has also built a strong reputation for reliability and durability over the years, so with a used Mazda BT-50 you’re also getting the peace of mind that you’re buying a ute that’s going to last.
Ready to explore our range? Start a search to buy or finance a used Mazda BT-50, and speak with our friendly customer service team for more information about the Carma process or car financing.