Browse over 9,000 car reviews

Mazda BT-50 a design first

image image
  • The coming Sky G, D and Drive coming
image image
  • the look of the BT-50, too feline/female for a truck

The Mazda BT-50 is presented as an ‘active lifestyle vehicle’ that overturns the conventional image of a utility with modern and refined styling.

The new model was developed from the ground up as a brand new type of vehicle.  As well as strength and dependability, the BT-50 is a great alternative for a wide range of customers who lead active lifestyles.

The exterior design features crisp lines, an imposing presence, plus sporty, dynamic proportions. When it finally hits Australian roads it is designed to be an instantly recognisable head-turner.

Customers who buy the BT-50 will, in effect, also be making a small investment in Australian automotive expertise as well – the vehicle was jointly developed, with the all-new Ford Ranger, right here in Australia. So you can be sure it’ll be tough enough for our potentially harsh operating conditions.

Another significant display at this year’s Australian International Motor Show is Mazda’s range of next-generation SKY powertrains due for release later next year.  The SKY powertrains are a key part of Mazda’s earlier (2007) commitment to reduce by 30 per cent overall average fuel consumption levels between 2008 and 2015.

The Mazda 2.0-litre SKY-G (for gasoline) petrol engine features direct injection and natural aspiration, while the hi-tech turbocharged 2.2-litre SKY-D (for diesel) common-rail diesel engine provides a solid wall of torque from just over 1000rpm to an incredible 5200rpm redline.

Both are mated to manual and auto SKY-Drive transmission options – both with six speeds. The auto uses a locking clutch 80-90 per cent of the time for direct drive, which minimizes frictional losses, boosts efficiency and reduces greenhouse emissions.

The CarsGuide team of car experts is made up of a diverse array of journalists, with combined experience that well and truly exceeds a century.  We live with the cars we...
About Author

Comments