2024 Mazda BT-50 price and specs: Line-up changes and new features

The 2024 Mazda BT-50 ute range has been updated with new features, a new GT model, and two variants dropped.

However, the Australian BT-50 has missed out on the majority of the changes announced for the Thai version – itself lacking the biggest styling, technology and safety upgrades recently introduced to its Isuzu D-Max twin under the skin in Australia and Thailand.

It comes amid growing concern over the future of the Mazda BT-50, which has been axed from two key right-hand-drive markets in recent months, and is threatened by upcoming new vehicle emissions standards due to come into force in Australia next year.

The latest Isuzu-based D-Max appears headed for the path followed by its Ford Ranger-based predecessor, which missed out on most of the changes applied to its twin, big and small.

MORE: 2024 Mazda BT-50 update unveiled in Thailand without Isuzu D-Max’s biggest changes

Of the key new features announced for Thai-market BT-50s, Australian variants only gain a Rough Terrain Mode on 4x4 models, which is said to better control throttle and brake inputs when off-roading, reducing the likelihood of wheel slip in low-traction environments.

Australia's model lacks the wireless Android Auto, standard-fit black grille surround, steering-wheel shift paddles, and new Rock Grey colour of Thai versions.

The majority of the upgrades introduced with the facelifted Isuzu D-Max have not been applied to the BT-50, here or overseas, which include:

Both the two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive variants of the BT-50 XS dual-cab ute – fitted with the 1.9-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder – have been axed from the range, with the 4x2 XS single-cab chassis automatic the only model remaining on sale with the 1.9-litre 110kW/350Nm engine.

All remaining BT-50 variants are powered by a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine making 140kW and 450Nm.

Launched in 2020 – and based on the Isuzu D-Max ute, restyled with Mazda’s ‘Kodo’ exterior design – the BT-50 range now boasts 21 different variants split across six trim levels, three different cabin bodies, and the option of either cab-chassis or a 'pick-up' tub.

Many are offered with the option of either 4x2 or 4x4, and manual or automatic transmissions – both being six-speeds.

New for the range is the introduction of the BT-50 GT with the dual-cab chassis body, allowing buyers to get a higher-specified model while also providing the option of an alloy tray without having to buy and then dispose of the tub.

For BT-50 XTR variants, accessories such as the lights and audio system can remain on after the engine has been turned off, providing added convenience for those camping or working at night.

Also announced is the addition of auto relock for XS and XT variants, which locks the doors when the ute begins moving at low speeds – a feature already available on XTR models and above with keyless (proximity key) entry.

The most efficient BT-50 is the entry-level 4x2 XS single-cab chassis, with a claimed combined fuel consumption figure of 7.0L/100km from its 1.9-litre engine and automatic transmission.

In the 4x4 BT-50 range, the XT and XTR dual-cab pick-ups with manual transmissions are the most efficient, both rated at 7.7L/100km, with automatic versions claiming 8.0L/100km.

The BT-50 is rated at 3000kg braked towing for the XS model, with all other versions rated at 3500kg braked towing. 

Ground clearance is 235mm to 240mm, depending on the model, while payloads across the line-up range from 887kg to 1380kg.

On the safety front, the 2024 Mazda BT-50 has a five-star ANCAP rating based on 2022 testing, after it was re-evaluated following an original 2020 test.

Until the end of June 2024, Mazda is also offering ABN holders special drive-away prices for the BT-50 XT dual-cab 4x4 manual and BT-50 SP dual-cab 4x4 auto of $49,990 and $64,670 drive-away respectively.

The 2024 Mazda BT-50 is in showrooms now.

Note: All prices above exclude on-road costs.