Can this refreshed ute take down Ranger and HiLux?

Think Mazda and your first thought is probably the pint-sized MX-5 or a borderline-luxury SUV like the CX-60 or CX-90. But the brand wants you to reconsider its ute, the BT-50, and has revealed a refreshed version of its latest model to get your attention.

The update comes on the heels of the BT-50’s twin-under-the-skin, the Isuzu D-Max, also got a nip and tuck after they launched in 2020.

READ MORE: Review – Mazda BT-50 Thunder

For the Mazda, as Australia is the biggest market it was able to take the lead on the redesign and has tried to create a “tougher, more powerful stance” for the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux rival.

In terms of new elements the grille and lower bumper are restyled, while at the rear the tailgate now has a redesigned top profile for better aerodynamics and a ridged design at the bottom for a different look. There’s also new LED taillights and a bigger Mazda logo too. There’s also new alloy wheels to go with the changes.

There’s also been some key changes inside, to highlight Mazda’s more premium push in the ute market, rather than chasing volume sales with lower-specification ‘workhorse’ models. That means a completely new infotainment system as well as a new digital instrument display for a more hi-tech interface. Mazda has also added wireless Android Auto (it already had Apple CarPlay) and new USB-C ports.

The company has also introduced a new two-tone interior option, with black and terracotta ‘Maztex’ faux-suede on the high-grade models.

Mechanically the BT-50 is unchanged, with the same choice of 3.0-litre or 1.9-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engines; which make 140kW/450Nm and 110kW/350Nm respectively.

While the BT-50 lags behind the Ranger and HiLux in the sales race, the success of the D-Max – which is the third best-selling model – is seemingly helping Mazda gain more popularity amongst buyers. With more than 11,000 sales in the first nine months of 2024, the BT-50 has moved into the top five sellers. It’s also the brand’s third best-selling model behind only the CX-3 and CX-5 SUVs.