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Welcome to the old Ford Ranger vs Mazda BT-50 comparison for 2023. Before starting the comparison we have to note that we think that Mazda does not target the commercial entry level market for 4×4 dual cab utes. Yes they have some models in the entry level but most of the range appeal to the private buyer type. On the other hand have the Ford Ranger which attempts to appeal to every type of buyer from commercial and tradies to suburb bound families with big dreams.
Ford Ranger vs Mazda BT-50 exterior comparison: We think the Mazda BT-50 is the best looking ute for sale at the moment. It just looks proportional in all angles, although this comment applies to the unmolested model grades. Sure the design is neither aggressive, deliberately uglified or ‘modern’ it is best described as nice and a model unlikely to date quickly. The newest Ford Ranger is based on the same chassis and looks decent in many ways. However there are clumsy designs especially the front end that tried to match the older side profile and rear end. Overall the Ranger design is good but parts bin as it looks like borrow parts from the US Ford Maverick and the door skins are the same as the last model is not quite convincing. Since the Ranger did share the same design as the BT-50 in the last generation we think the D-Max based Mazda BT-50 was the right choice in keeping it closer the brand’s Japanese marketing – looks that are sporty.
Ford Ranger vs Mazda BT-50 interior comparison: The Ranger has the digital centre console and instruments that lift cabins ambience for all models. The entry levels would be very basic without the two screens. The more you move up the Ford ranger model tree and the more the interior gets000 much better. In comparison the BT50 base models are pretty basic as well and the more you pay the better it gets. However we don’t think it gets to the s0me level as the Ford. That said we feel that the quality of fit and finish on the plastics in the BT-50 are better than the ones in the Ranger.
Ford Ranger vs Mazda BT-50 engine and technology comparison: It probably easier to start this part with the BT-50 because it hasn’t changed since the introduction. It’s single diesel engine is good and likewise the safety systems dependent on model grade. The Ford Ranger has changed and more obvious is in the interior gadgets and the upgrade in presentation due to the digital screens. Unfortunately the Ranger has not seen any upgrades that improve efficiency or durability apart from the marketing materials. These are not sports cars and have decent handling for a truck but certainly less than your average Corolla.
Ford Ranger vs Mazda BT-50 cred comparison: The updated Ranger is larger and heavier with more gadgets and price. It also trades on the F-Series truck reputation rather than arguably it’s only model reputation – just yet. Just forget the original generation of the Ranger of the 1990’s. On the other hand the now separated BT-50 is again arguably going back to it’s Japanese roots with the shared design with Isuzu D-Max which has a it lineage all the way back to when it was also known as the forgotten Holden Rodeo of the 90’s amongst other brands – that also use the same chassis and drivetrain. It’s a proven story which helps the BT-50 on the street. Nonetheless the Ranger has the street cred advantage due to being bigger and having the Raptor variant and F-Series to give it a cred boost.
The winner of the Ford Ranger vs Mazda BT-50 comparison is the draw. It depends on what you want ultimately. A Japanese focused design in the BT-50 or a North American inspired marketing in the Ranger is the question. In terms of performance the heavier Ranger means the same performance as the BT-50 so this shouldn’t be a deciding factor. Only a test drive will reveal which one you prefer rather than anyone else’s opinion. In terms of pricing the BT-50 now costs the same if not more than the Ranger, so the without any features or pricing deal to make it worth the price it is still pretty much a draw.
Mazda BT-50 | Ford Ranger (2024) |
Engines | |
IL4 Cylinder Diesel 3 Litre (2999cc) Turbo DOHC EFI DI CR Claimed 140Kw @ 3600RPM Claimed 450Nm @ 1600-2600RPM |
IL4 Cylinder Diesel 2 Litre (1996cc) Single Turbo IC DOHC EFI DI CR Claimed 125Kw @ 3500 RPM Claimed 405Nm @ 1750 RPM |
IL4 Cylinder Diesel 2 Litre (1996cc) Twin Turbo IC DOHC EFI DI CR Claimed 154Kw @ 3750 RPM Claimed 500Nm @ 1750 RPM |
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V6 Cylinder Diesel 3.0 Litre (2993cc) Diesel Turbo DOHC EFI DI CR Claimed 184Kw @ 3250 RPM Claimed 600Nm @ 1750 RPM |
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Ranger Raptor (Mod) V6 Cylinder Petrol 3.0 Litre (2993cc) Turbo DOHC EFI DI CR Claimed 292Kw @ 5650 RPM Claimed 583Nm @ 3500 RPM |
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Weight | |
FROM 2000Kg Towing capacity up to 3500kg |
FROM 2200 Kg (4×4) Towing capacity up to 3500kg |
Fuel capacity & consumption | |
Up to 76 litres IL4 Diesel 8.0 lts per 100km (Auto) |
Up to 80 litres IL4 Diesel 2.0 lts 7.2 lts per 100km IL4 Diesel 2.0 lts 7.2 lts per 100km V6 Diesel 3.0 lts 8.4 lts per 100km |
Other specifications | |
6 speed Auto or Manual Overall height/width 1800/1870 Overall length/wheelbase 5280/3125 Tray size: L1570 x W1530 x D490 mm Total payload capability 1000kg (Approx) NCAP safety rating 5/5 |
10 speed Auto Overall height/width 1884/1918 Overall length/wheelbase 5370/3270 Tray Lxxx x Wxxxx x Dxxx mm Total payload capability 934kg (Approx) NCAP safety rating x/5 |
Capability | |
Angle of: (degrees) Approach 30′ Departure 24′ Breakover 24′ Minimum ground clearance 240 mm Water Fording depth 500mm Max 4WD system: Part time 4WD High & Low range *Subject to change based on configuration |
Varies dependent on configuration. Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Minimum ground clearance 234 mm Water Fording depth xxx mm Max 4WD system: 2WD or 4WD or AWD *Subject to change based on configuration |
Performance | |
– | – |
Pricing (Dual-Cab 4×4) |
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2023 From $53,000 – 73,410 AUD 2020 From $49,900 – 63,250 AUD 2018 From $45,690 AUD |
2023 From $50,000 – $72,000 Ranger Raptor From $87,000 2018 From $50,000 AUD XLS 4×2 Dual Cab 4WD |
*Subject to change based on configuration. Always check with the dealer for up to date pricing and specials accessories etc… |