2022 Mazda BT-50 Double Cab 3.0 High Plus Review

In Malaysia's pickup market, models that balance daily commuting and light off-road needs have always been a priority choice for family users and small business owners. The 2022 Mazda BT-50 Double Cab 3.0 High Plus, as a mid-to-high-end configuration of the 4x4 diesel version, enters this segment with Mazda's design language and practical features. Its core selling points are focused on balanced power output, comprehensive safety features, and a comfortable driving experience. This test drive will evaluate the car from aspects such as static design, dynamic performance, and daily practicality to help readers determine if it fits their needs.

At first glance, the overall style of the BT-50 leans towards a rugged design without losing its refinement. The front face adopts Mazda's family-style shield-shaped grille, paired with chrome trims, connected to halogen + LED combination headlights on both sides, creating a certain level of recognition. The silver skid plate below the front bumper and the black cladding around the fog light area further enhance the off-road characteristics of the pickup. The side profile of the vehicle has straight lines, and its 5280mm length and 1870mm width ensure interior space, while the 265/60 R18 tire specification balances road stability and light off-road capability. The rear part of the vehicle has a simple design, with vertically arranged tail lights and a rear bumper equipped with a silver skid plate as well. The overall design is harmonious, meeting the "practical + visually appealing" demand of pickup truck users.

Stepping inside, the interior style leans towards the refinement of a family SUV. The dashboard is wrapped in soft-touch materials, combined with silver trim and piano-black panels, offering both superior tactile and visual effects compared to some competitors in the same class. The 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system is positioned at the top of the dashboard, providing smooth operation and supporting the Sound Plus feature. The eight-speaker sound system satisfies daily audio needs. The seat configuration is a highlight, with both the driver and front passenger seats offering 8-way electric adjustments, and the leather upholstery providing good support and wrapping. The rear seats adopt a 60:40 split design, come with a central armrest, and have ample legroom thanks to the 3125mm wheelbase. Additionally, rear air vents and power outlets enhance rear passenger comfort. In terms of storage, the door panel storage pockets, central armrest box, and front cup holders are quite practical, capable of accommodating family outing necessities.

For the powertrain, the 3.0L turbocharged diesel engine delivers a maximum power of 190PS at 3600rpm, with a peak torque available at 1600rpm. It is paired with an AT gearbox. During daily driving, the power response at startup is smooth, and low-end torque is sufficient. Even when fully loaded with five passengers or a trunk filled with cargo, the engine does not feel overly strained. During acceleration, the transmission logic is clear, with well-timed gear shifts, and pressing the accelerator for overtaking provides continuous power output. When switching to four-wheel drive mode, the vehicle's capability to handle muddy or light off-road terrain is improved, making it suitable for weekend camping trips or light off-road scenarios. As for fuel efficiency, the official combined fuel consumption is 7.7L/100km, while actual combined fuel consumption for urban commuting and highway driving averages around 8.5L/100km, placing it in the upper-middle range among 4x4 diesel pickups in its class.

In terms of handling and chassis performance, the front double-wishbone independent suspension is tuned for comfort, effectively filtering out most vibrations when traversing city speed bumps or bumpy roads. Rear passengers do not feel significant jolts. The steering wheel has a moderate effort, precise direction, and the vehicle maintains good stability at high speeds without feeling floaty. The braking system adopts a ventilated disc design, with responsive braking and stable body posture during emergency stops. In terms of noise control, the noise of the diesel engine is slightly noticeable at idle, but wind and tire noise are well-controlled while driving, ensuring in-car conversations are not affected.

Safety features are one of the core strengths of this vehicle. It comes standard with 7 airbags (including knee airbags and front and rear curtain airbags), lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, active braking, and other active safety systems, which are considered leading in its class of pickup trucks. Additionally, practical features such as keyless entry, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic headlights are all included, showcasing an overall configuration that surpasses the traditional "work truck" positioning of pickups and is more in line with the needs of family cars.

Overall, the 2022 Mazda BT-50 Double Cab 3.0 High Plus excels in its balanced performance: it boasts the utility and off-road capability of a pickup truck while offering the comfort and safety features of a family car. Compared to competitors like the Toyota Hilux or Ford Ranger in the same class, it has the advantage in terms of interior refinement and safety features, and its price of 143,000 MYR offers a certain degree of cost-effectiveness. It is suitable for individuals who need the practicality of a pickup truck but also prioritize family riding comfort, as well as outdoor enthusiasts who often engage in light off-roading or outdoor activities. If you are looking for a pickup truck that can "haul cargo, serve as a family car, and offer sufficient safety features," the BT-50 is worth considering.