2025 4x4 Ute of the Year contender: Mazda BT-50 GT

The Mazda BT‑50 is essentially an Isuzu D‑MAX wearing a sharp suit.

The two share the same 3.0‑litre diesel engine, driveline, chassis and systems, but the Mazda brings different exterior and interior styling, plus a slightly sportier suspension tune. If you’re going to partner with another manufacturer to add a ute to your showroom, teaming up with Isuzu is hardly a bad choice.

By choosing the GT – the second-highest model in the BT‑50 range – you get Isuzu’s proven mechanics with Mazda’s more refined interior and exterior touches. It even carries over the Rough Terrain button for off-road use, along with the six-speed automatic transmission and familiar chassis setup.

JUMP AHEAD

• Key highlights
• How it drives
• Towing performance
• Specs
• Interior
• Verdict

Key highlights

The Mazda BT‑50 GT delivers a solid mix of capability, practicality and style, making it a strong contender in the midsize 4×4 segment. Here some standout features:

• Shared 3.0‑litre diesel engine and six-speed automatic with Isuzu D‑MAX
• Slightly sportier suspension tune for a firmer ride and better payload handling
• Refined Mazda interior styling with intuitive controls
• Rough Terrain button for off-road traction support
• Higher payload than D‑MAX X‑Terrain (998 kg vs 928 kg)

How it drives: On- and off-road

While the engine and transmission feel the same as in the D-MAX, it seems Mazda has calibrated its suspension tune to deliver a slightly sportier dynamic without sacrificing passenger comfort. The difference is minor, and you’d only really notice it when driving the two vehicles back-to-back.

On-road, the BT‑50 GT feels composed and stable, with suspension tuning that keeps the cab planted over bumps and undulations. It responds confidently to steering inputs, giving a connected feel without being harsh or overly stiff. Acceleration is steady and predictable, and the six-speed automatic shifts smoothly under most conditions, making it easy to drive on highways or winding roads alike.

Off-road, the BT‑50 inherits the rugged D-MAX architecture, including the Rough Terrain button and part-time 4×4 system. The slightly stiffer rear springs provide added support when loaded, helping maintain control on rougher tracks or when carrying gear in the tub. While it’s not as soft and compliant as some competitors, the BT‑50 feels balanced and capable, offering predictable handling and confidence in a variety of terrain.

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Towing performance

Our towing judge, Tim van Duyl, noted the different weight capacities between the two vehicles on test and how this could also influence your choice between them.

“I made sure to tow with the GT back-to-back with the D-MAX X-Terrain, because although they share their chassis, gearbox and engine, the GT runs stiffer, more load-oriented rear springs.

“The GT has a payload of up to 998kg, bettering the X-Terrain by about 70kg, but I’ll be honest – I think you need to use some of that capability and run some weight in the tub of the GT, as it felt a lot stiffer and less settled than the Isuzu. If you’re expecting to run a few hundred kilos of canopy and gear, the GT might be the one to go for; just keep an eye on your GVM (3100kg) and GCM (6000kg).”

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Interior comfort and practicality

Inside, the BT‑50 GT is more subdued and less angular than the D‑MAX, but equipment levels are largely identical.

Front occupants enjoy supportive seats with leather-look trim, adjustable lumbar support, and heated functions, while the rear bench is spacious enough for adults on shorter trips, though best suited for lighter loads on long journeys.

The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, featuring a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus physical controls for climate and media that remain easy to operate on the move. Storage is plentiful, with deep door bins, a centre console, and under-seat compartments for tools or touring gear.

Practicality extends to the cargo area, where the GT can carry up to 998 kg payload, aided by slightly stiffer rear springs that keep the tub stable under load. Overall, the BT‑50 strikes a balance between refinement and usability, giving drivers a cabin that’s comfortable for long drives without compromising the rugged functionality needed for work or bush touring.

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Why it didn’t win

The BT‑50 GT is a capable and practical ute, but it falls short compared with the newer, more refined competitors in this year’s test. Its strengths in styling and payload can’t fully offset a few limitations in overall performance and comfort. Key reasons include:

• Older platform and tech – Lacks some of the refinement, off-road tech, and comfort features of newer midsize utes.
• Stiffer ride – The load-oriented rear suspension feels firm with lighter loads, reducing long-drive comfort.
• Limited overall performance – Shares the same engine and driveline as the D‑MAX, which is competent but outclassed by more powerful and refined rivals.