Mazda BT-50 XT 2021 review: snapshot

The Mazda BT-50 XT trim line is the broadest offering in the new ute’s model range, and it will get even broader once the single- and extra-cab models arrive. Here we’re only covering off the dual cab versions, as that’s what’s launching first.

As it stands, dual cab XT models in the BT-50 range consists of both 4x2 and 4x2 variants, with cab-chassis and Pickup (as Mazda calls it - you might prefer pick-up or ute) and there’s a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission if you’re getting a 4x4. The 4x2 models are auto only.

Every BT-50 is powered by a 3.0-litre turbo diesel four-cylinder engine with 140kW (at 3600rpm) and 450Nm (at 1600-2600rpm). All have towing capacity of 750kg (unbraked) and 3500kg (braked), and the claimed official fuel consumption ranges from 7.7L/100km to 8.0L/100km depending on the version.

Explore the 2021 Mazda BT-50 range

• Mazda BT-50 XT 2021 review: snapshot
• Mazda BT-50 XTR 2021 review: snapshot
• Mazda BT-50 GT 2021 review: snapshot
• Mazda BT-50 2021 review
• Mazda BT-50 2022 review: XS 1.9, plus SP
• Mazda BT-50 2021 review: XT 4x4 manual GVM test
• Mazda BT-50 2021 review: XTR 4x4 auto
• Mazda BT-50 2021 review: XT Freestyle cab chassis GVM test
• Mazda BT-50 2021 review: Thunder off-road test
• Mazda BT-50 2022 review: XS 1.9 dual cab - GVM test
• Mazda BT-50 2023 review: XTR long-term | Part 1
• Mazda BT-50 SP 2023 review: off-road test
• Mazda BT-50 2023 review: XTR long-term | Part 2
• Mazda BT-50 2023 review: XTR long-term | Part 3
• Mazda BT-50 2023 review: XTR long-term | Part 4
• Mazda BT-50 2023 review: XTR long-term | Part 5
• Mazda BT-50 2023 review: GT - off-road test
• Mazda BT-50 2023 review: XTR long-term | Part 6
• Mazda BT-50 2023 review: XTR LE

Dual cab BT-50 XT models start off at $44,090 (all prices are MSRP/RRP - not including on-road costs) for the auto-only cab-chassis 4x2, while the XT Pickup 4x2 automatic is a $45,490 proposition. The XT dual cab models are all high-riding versions, so you really can’t pick them as being rear-wheel drive (RWD) and not 4WD.

The XT 4x4 range comprises the manual cab-chassis listing at $49,360, while the auto version steps the price up by $2500 to $51,860. Choose an XT 4x4 Pickup and it’ll cost you $50,760 for the manual or $53,260 for the auto.

Curious about standard equipment inclusions for the XT? You might be surprised that it rolls on 17-inch alloy wheels and has LED headlights as standard. That’s not all, either: also standard are power-adjustable mirrors, a 4.2-inch driver display and digital speedometer, black cloth interior trim, carpet flooring (that’s right - no vinyl flooring!), and XT has a 7.0-inch multimedia touchscreen with wireless or USB-connect Apple CarPlay, USB-connect Android Auto, digital radio and four-speaker sound system in 4x2 models, while 4x4 versions get a six-speaker stereo.

You get manual air-conditioning, power mirrors, power windows, automatic wipers, tilt and telescopic multi-function steering wheel, and body colour bumpers (including a rear step bumper). The XT dual cabs miss out on rear seat directional air vents but do have a rear USB port.

From the XT up there’s a reversing camera - both for the cab-chassis and pick-up models - but the cab-chassis misses out on rear parking sensors (standard on Pickup). And the other safety tech inclusions list is extensive: AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane keeping assistance, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, front turn assist, driver attention assist, eight airbags including a ute-first front centre airbag, and autos have adaptive cruise control too (manuals have standard cruise).