Can we buy the Mazda BT-50 pick-up truck here in the UK?

My wife and I have just returned from a wonderful trip to Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. Most ordinary folk in those countries drive pick-up trucks as a family vehicle. I think this is eminently sensible. A pick-up truck is so versatile. You can collect and move cargo and, with a crew cab (or even without one), you can accommodate a family. We saw many Mazda BT-50s. Can this truck be bought in the UK, and does it have a chain-driven cam? In Vietnam, the owner of our favourite restaurant had a Mazda BT-50.

Asked on 11 July 2011 by JA, Ockley

Answered by Honest John

Yes, the Mazda BT-50 and Ford Ranger can be bought in the UK. They follow each other down the production line at the Alliance Factory near Rayong in Thailand. They are belt cam. New test and video of the BT-50 from July here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/mazda/mazda-bt50-t.../

It’s quite good to drive, with bags of mid range power, decent economy and excellent steering. But the current Isuzu D-Max (UK Rodeo) and Chevrolet Colorado twins are a bit better, having the best and most amiable chain cam 2.5 or 3.0 litre engines and really nice 5 speed transmissions. Test and video here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/isuzu/isuzu-rodeo-.../ The 4-door HiLander in front of the spare parts shop is ours.

There are new Mazda BT50/Ford Ranger, and new Isuzu D-Max/Chevrolet Colorado on the way but it has been a long gestation period. I've been trying to get a drive of one since last December. I think they will be launched October/November. Wraps off in Bangkok Motor Show video here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/motorshows/bangkok-motor.../

Tags: economy pick-ups new model date

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