Text and Photos by Sandre Lee Roque

Mazda Philippines has enjoyed long years of pride within their line-up of highly anticipated vehicles such as the Mazda 3, Mazda 6 and the head turning CX-9. Now the company has another ‘zoom-zoom’ product that pushes their market coverage towards hard-working businessman and farmers alike, that is their new Mazda BT-50.

The BT-50 is a straight heir to the ever reliable B-Series pick-up which we can still see a lot in the streets today. During its time, Mazda marketed it as a lifestyle pick-up that not only boasts its functionality, but a legendary heritage of toughness in which some of us may know. Not surprising (I must say) that the new one just got even better in terms of power and refinement yet still feels robust in every detail.

As the ‘zoom-zoom’ philosophy goes, this pick-up is one of it. Though the Mazda BT-50 shares almost the same under parts as the Ford Ranger in a different styling. It looks better up close and personal with its athletic and muscular stance. Function-wise, the BT-50 doesn’t lack any of it as it is able to haul a ton of cargo in the back and tow three tons. Getting in and out of the BT-50 after a long day of dirt driving means the driver will probably get dirty shoes as well, standard sidestep fittings provides a good brush to remove the mud away.

Inside, the BT-50 also boasts a ‘zoom-zoom’ like atmosphere though (again) every detail is much similar to the Ford Ranger its amber interior illumination makes it unique and sporty. The two-tone colour scheme of grey and with silver-finish accents gives more detail that provides a clean and modern impression of quality. The cabin is big enough for anyone who is less than 5’10”, sadly, anyone taller than that will be deprived of a relaxing ride. Standard features include power windows, locks, steering, and mirrors; a 6 disc changer and mp3 player w/ auxiliary input and an Auto Level Control (ALS) that automatically adjusts the volume according to the vehicle speed; and a slide-out tray for paper documents. The seats are comfortable and offers the best support in any modern pick-up I have driven. Now despite having no freedom for height adjustment it still provides a good commanding view. The truck showed good suspension rebound and has reasonable body roll control, and regardless of its truck-ness, it remains to be a comfortable highway cruiser.

Powered by a new 2.5L MZR-CD 16 valve CRDi engine, it doesn’t depress any driver because the 143 horsepower and 330 Nm torque guarantees a good punch towards the redline thanks to the added variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). It’s so good that it will keep you smiling all day. While the 5-speed Manual gearbox delivers smooth shifting. But just like any other diesel engine, this too, sounds agricultural, by operating it below 2500 rpm the clattering sound will be kept minimal. A drive to the Subic race track showed the BT-50’s dynamic handling, the steering and ABS-equipped brakes felt progressive throughout. From 60 kph to a complete stop gives it about 25 meters of stopping distance and a 0-100 kph run in less than 13 seconds which is already good for a hefty truck. As far as safety is concerned, the BT-50 is equipped with dual SRS airbags, side impact beams, rear door child locks, anti-lock brakes and EBD (4X4 only). These offerings makes it a practical and safe ute for both family and business use.

The Mazda BT-50 is currently offered at an introductory price of P1.329M for a 3.0L 4X4 version. Our tester, the 2.5L 4X2 version runs for P949,000. Interested buyers may schedule their test drive by calling the Mazda hotline at tel. no 85-MAZDA or visit their site at www.mazda.com.ph.

Watch video of Maxda BT-50 Ride and Drive Event:

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