Mazda BT-50 Dual Cab SDX

The car Mazda BT-50 Dual Cab SDX

The price From $43,555 (plus on-road and dealer costs)

Vital statistics 3.0-litre 4-cyl turbo-diesel; 115kW/380Nm; 5-sp manual; 9.2L/100km and 243g/km CO2; AWD

The tester Steve Colquhoun

Why we're driving it Mazda has added value into its BT-50 light commercial range with more comfort and safety features. The Dual Cab SDX model gains side airbags and leather steering wheel and gear knob. Our test car also came with a canopy and bullbar pack ($4092) and tow bar ($546).

Likes Tradies will appreciate the roomy interior, numerous cup holders and low-range gearbox for muddy worksites. Optional canopy creates a cavernous loading area that's fully separate from the passenger compartment. Tall driving position puts you above the traffic. The addition of side airbags is welcome.

Dislikes Noisy, wheezy engine pushes hard from low in the rev range but quickly runs out of puff. Steering has too much slack at centre and is slow, even by cab chassis standards. Massive footprint and long overhangs exceed most standard parking spots. Tall, narrow rear doors make access difficult. Outdated umbrella-style handbrake lever and no stability control, even as an option.

Would I buy one? A current offer of $42,490 drive away (with canopy and bullbar) on this model is tempting, saving several thousand dollars over similarly specified rivals. But I'd still pay extra for the newer, better equipped and better-looking mid-spec Mitsubishi Triton fitted with stability control.