Mazda Australia has announced some enhancements to its BT-50 lineup for 2024, with some equipment upgrades and enhanced off-road capability.
Headlining the changes is the availability of a new ‘Rough Terrain Mode’ on all 4×4 variants, mirroring a similar feature on the 2024 Isuzu D-Max, on which the Mazda BT-50 is based. Activated by a stand-alone button near the gear selector, Rough Terrain Mode optimises the traction control in challenging conditions.
It does this by fine-tuning throttle and brake inputs when it senses throttle innput transitioning from idle, thereby preventing wheel spin and sending torque to the wheels with the most traction. It can be used in conjunction with Hill Descent Control and the locking rear differential.
Specification revisions mean the GT grade is available to dual-cab chassis customers now, meaning they are no longer restricted to the standard tub. This means dual-zone climate control, 9.0-inch infotainment screen, stitched leather steering rim, chrome mirror caps, heated seats and brown trim are available to tray-back customers for the first time. For 2024, remote engine start from the key fob is now part of the GT spec.
Additionally, auto re-lock is now available on XS and XT models, and all models from XTR upwards now allow for accessories including lights and audio to stay on after engine shut-down, which should come in handy for twilight adventures in the bush.
Mazda Australia’s managing director, Vinesh Bhindi, had this to say about the 2024 Mazda BT-50 upgrades:
“Our comprehensively specified GT model grade brings with it a number of welcome extras that provide added comfort and refinement for the driver and occupants, while the ‘blank canvas’ of the cab-chassis opens up endless options for customisation at the rear. Putting the two together gives our customers yet another opportunity to fulfil their favourite pursuits and live the ‘You Do Ute’ philosophy,”
Considering the changes, Mazda has done well to keep pricing the same, except for the BT-50 SP which gets a minor $30 bump in price. The new model is on sale now from the following prices (excluding on-road costs):
