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I MAZDA BT-50 3.0-LITRE INTREPID PICKUP I Not so long
Page 36
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ago,in happier times, the buying public just couldn't get enough of pickups, particularly in glossy double-cab form, with sales records being broken month on month.
It may have had something to do with their tax-saving potential, and the fact that most manufacturers were offering glammed-up, socially acceptable versions that meant you didn't 'officially' have a commercial vehicle parked on your drive at the weekend.
However, as is so often the way, the prettier things are the first to go when a recession kicks in and sales of such extravagances have dropped off significantly over the past year.
So, perfect timing for Mazda's revised BT-50, then, which is the recipient of a facelifted front and an altered rear, along with one or two adjustments to the interior.
More significant, though, is the arrival of a 3.0-litre engine that boosts power and torque to 156hp and 380Nm respectively (the existing .5-litre unit offers 141hp and 330Nm). Mated to a five-speed auto gearbox, this top-of-the-range double-cab version badged as Intrepid comes with all the bells and whistles that, once upon a time, made this type of vehicle so popular.
Priced at £18.681, the Intrepid benefits from having ABS, air-con, electric windows and mirrors, remote central locking and alarm, a six-CD autochanger, leather trim, scuff plates and numerous cosmetic body adornments If this is all too much for your simpler tastes, then the cheaper 2.5-litre version is also available in single-cab and two-wheel-drive configuration, although there is 'no caband-a-half' arrangement in the model line-up as offered on its Ford cousin, which provides enhanced interior storage space behind the front seats accessed via pillarless rear opening doors, it's a very handy practical feature for the working user.
Underneath, the Intrepid incorporates selectable 4WD, which can be engaged on the move, complete with high and low ratios, as well as freewheeling hubs that activate when you transfer to four-wheel power.