Mazda BT-50 vs LDV T60 MAX
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Utes compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Mazda BT-50 starts from $36,400 before on-road costs, while the LDV T60 MAX opens at $36,990. That makes the Mazda BT-50 the more affordable entry point by $590.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $40,040 and $40,689 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Mazda BT-50 by roughly $1,570 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
The Mazda BT-50 holds a 5-star ANCAP rating vs 4 stars for the LDV T60 MAX.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The LDV T60 MAX packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 1 in the Mazda BT-50.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the Mazda BT-50 and 6 in the LDV T60 MAX.
Feature Showdown
The Mazda BT-50 features a 7-inch touchscreen, while the LDV T60 MAX gets a 10.3-inch display and 10.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
Drivetrain
The Mazda BT-50 uses a Diesel producing 110kW and 350Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.9 seconds.
The LDV T60 MAX responds with a Diesel Turbo making 160kW and 500Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 11.5 seconds.
The LDV T60 MAX has the clear power advantage at 160kW vs 110kW. In the real-world sprint, the Mazda BT-50 is 0.6s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mazda BT-50 measures 5,280mm long on a 3,100mm wheelbase, 85mm shorter than the LDV T60 MAX at 5,365mm (3,155mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the LDV T60 MAX generally means more rear legroom.
0For towing, the LDV T60 MAX leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 3,500kg. That 0kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.4m to 12.6m
Based on 12.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,995/year for the Mazda BT-50 and $2,309/year for the LDV T60 MAX. That is a $314 annual difference in favour of the Mazda BT-50.
Estimated annual total: $1,995 (Mazda BT-50) vs $2,309 (LDV T60 MAX). The Mazda BT-50 saves you roughly $314 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda BT-50) vs 7 years / 200,000km (LDV T60 MAX). The LDV T60 MAX has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mazda BT-50 if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the LDV T60 MAX if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer LDV's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Mazda BT-50 takes 4 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Mazda BT-50 will save you roughly $314 a year in fuel. The LDV T60 MAX adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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