The Mazda BT-50 Dual Cab II, specifically the 3.2-liter (200 horsepower) 4×4 variant, represents Mazda’s entry into the competitive mid-size pickup truck market. Produced from 2011 to 2014, this generation BT-50 was a collaborative effort with Ford, sharing a platform and many components with the Ford Ranger T6. The BT-50 aimed to provide a robust and capable workhorse, appealing to buyers needing both utility and a degree of refinement. This particular 3.2L engine and four-wheel drive configuration occupied a mid-to-upper position within the BT-50 lineup, offering a balance between performance, towing capacity, and fuel efficiency compared to lower-powered engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | BT-50 |
| Generation | BT-50 Dual Cab II |
| Type (Engine) | 3.2 (200 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 97.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 229.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 3000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 470 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (346.65 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 3198 cm3 (195.15 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89.9 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 100.7 mm (3.96 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.75 l (10.3 US qt | 8.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.9 l (13.63 US qt | 11.35 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2044 kg (4506.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3200 kg (7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1156 kg (2548.54 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 350 kg (771.62 lbs.) |
| Length | 5373 mm (211.54 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Height | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3220 mm (126.77 in.) |
| Front track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Front overhang | 919 mm (36.18 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1234 mm (48.58 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 200-232 mm (7.87 – 9.13 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.4 m (40.68 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 27.6° |
| Departure angle | 27.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 24.4° |
| Wading depth | 800 mm (31.5 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 302 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 295 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 255/70 R16 111T |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this BT-50 variant is the 3.2-liter WL-T five-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, part of the WL family developed by Mazda, utilizes a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head. The engine employs a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by increasing air intake and reducing intake air temperature. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, contributes to efficient gas exchange. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The 3.2L engine was paired with a robust six-speed manual transmission, chosen for its durability and ability to handle the engine’s torque output. The transmission sends power to all four wheels via a part-time four-wheel drive system, selectable via a rotary dial.
Driving Characteristics
The 200 horsepower and 470 Nm (346.65 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 3.2L engine delivered respectable performance for a mid-size pickup. While not exceptionally quick, the BT-50 offered ample power for everyday driving and hauling loads. The torque curve was relatively flat, providing strong pulling power from low engine speeds, making it well-suited for towing. The six-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the lower-powered 2.5-liter engine options, the 3.2L provided a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall responsiveness. However, it didn’t match the outright performance of some competitors equipped with larger displacement engines. The leaf spring rear suspension, while contributing to load-carrying capacity, could result in a somewhat firm ride when unladen.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The BT-50 Dual Cab II 3.2 4×4 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels, often denoted by designations like “XTR” or “Limited,” added features such as alloy wheels, a chrome grille, fog lights, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras could include a navigation system, a reversing camera, and leather upholstery. The interior design was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The dual cab configuration offered seating for five passengers, with a usable rear seat area.
Chassis & Braking
The BT-50’s chassis was a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust foundation for its intended purpose. The front suspension utilized a double wishbone setup, offering a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The rear suspension employed leaf springs, chosen for their load-carrying capacity and durability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering system was a hydraulic rack and pinion setup, providing responsive and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mazda BT-50 was generally well-received by automotive critics as a capable and reliable pickup truck. The 3.2-liter engine was praised for its strong torque output and fuel efficiency, especially when compared to larger gasoline engines. However, some reviewers noted that the interior lacked the refinement of some competitors. Compared to the Ford Ranger (with which it shared a platform), the BT-50 often offered a slightly more distinctive exterior styling and a different suspension tuning. Fuel economy was competitive for its class, averaging around 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg). Reliability was generally good, with few widespread issues reported.
Legacy
The Mazda BT-50 Dual Cab II 3.2 4×4 has proven to be a durable and reliable workhorse in the used car market. The 3.2-liter engine is known for its longevity, provided it has been properly maintained. These trucks continue to be popular choices for those seeking a capable and affordable pickup. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, filter replacements, and inspection of the turbocharger and fuel injection system. The availability of parts is generally good, thanks to the shared components with the Ford Ranger. Today, these BT-50s represent a solid value proposition for buyers needing a dependable and versatile pickup truck.
