2023 Mazda BT-50 LE ute adds value

Mazda has jumped on board the accessorised 4x4 dual-cab ute bandwagon, offering a more affordable alternative to the flagship BT-50 Thunder in the form of the new 2023 Mazda BT-50 LE.

Based on the mid-range XTR model but positioned $7000 upstream, Mazda says the LE’s starting price of $64,295 plus on-road costs will save buyers around $2500 were they to order the donor vehicle and individually order the accessories.

The extra $7K adds a polished single-hoop alloy bull bar, matching polished sports bar and a heavy-duty tub liner.

Otherwise, the XTR’s standard equipment is carried over, with feature highlights including dual-zone climate control, satellite navigation, keyless entry, reversing camera, smartphone mirroring and 18-inch alloy wheels.

No changes have been made to the charismatic 140kW/450Nm 3.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine chugging away under the bonnet of all high-series BT-50 models.

A six-speed automatic is the only transmission available at this stage – unlike the XTR, which can be had as a manual – while power is shipped to all four wheels by a selectable 4x4 system.

The system is aided off-road by a locking rear differential and low-range transfer case.

“One of the many strings to the Mazda BT-50’s bow is the sheer breadth of customisation options available through the Mazda Genuine Accessories program, all of which come with a five-year warranty when fitted at delivery,” said Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi.

“With the new Mazda BT-50 LE, we’re offering the best of both worlds – an enhanced and individual look, combined with even more added versatility.”

First examples of the LE are set to enter showrooms next month.

How much does the 2023 Mazda BT-50 cost?
XS single-cab chassis 4x2 1.9 (a) – $33,950
XS dual-cab pick-up 4x2 1.9 (a) – $42,890
XT single-cab chassis 4x2 (a) – $36,950
XT Freestyle cab-chassis 4x2 (a) – $40,450
XT dual-cab chassis 4x2 (a) – $44,490
XT dual-cab pick-up 4x2 (a) – $45,890
XTR dual-cab pick-up 4x2 (a) – $49,870
XS dual-cab pick-up 4x4 1.9 (a) – $51,510
XT single-cab chassis 4x4 – $41,950
XT single-cab chassis 4x4 (a) – $44,450
XT Freestyle cab chassis 4x4 – $45,450
XT Freestyle cab chassis 4x4 (a) – $47,950
XT dual-cab chassis 4x4 – $49,760
XT dual-cab chassis 4x4 (a) – $52,260
XT dual-cab pick-up 4x4 – $51,160
XT dual-cab pick-up 4x4 (a) – $53,660
XTR dual-cab chassis 4x4 (a) – $56,210
XTR dual-cab pick-up 4x4 – $55,110
XTR dual-cab pick-up 4x4 (a) – $57,610
LE dual-cab pick-up 4x4 (a) – $64,295
GT dual-cab pick-up 4x4 – $57,390
GT dual-cab pick-up 4x4 (a) – $60,390
SP dual-cab pick-up 4x4 – $63,390
SP dual-cab pick-up 4x4 (a) – $66,390
Thunder dual-cab pick-up 4x4 – $68,290
Thunder dual-cab pick-up 4x4 (a) – $71,290
*Prices exclude on-road costs