Toyota HiLux vs Mazda BT-50
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 Toyota HiLux starts from $33,990 before on-road costs, while the Mazda BT-50 opens at $36,400. That makes the Toyota HiLux the more affordable entry point by $2,410.
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 $37,389 and $40,040 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Toyota HiLux and Mazda BT-50 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 84% for the Toyota HiLux and 86% for the Mazda BT-50.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Toyota HiLux packs more ADAS features with 3 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 8 in the Toyota HiLux and 6 in the Mazda BT-50.
Feature Showdown
The Toyota HiLux features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the Mazda BT-50 gets a 7-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Toyota HiLux stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that you will not find on the Mazda BT-50. The Mazda BT-50 counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Toyota HiLux uses a 2.8L 4-cyl Turbo-Diesel producing 150kW and 420Nm of torque, sent through a manual to a 4x2 layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.2 seconds.
The Mazda BT-50 responds with a Diesel making 110kW and 350Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.9 seconds.
The Toyota HiLux has the clear power advantage at 150kW vs 110kW. In the real-world sprint, the Toyota HiLux is 0.7s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Toyota HiLux measures 5,380mm long on a 3,085mm wheelbase, 100mm longer than the Mazda BT-50 at 5,280mm (3,100mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mazda BT-50 generally means more rear legroom.
0For towing, the Mazda BT-50 leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 2,900kg. That 600kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m to 12.4m
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.4m 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 $2,081/year for the Toyota HiLux and $1,995/year for the Mazda BT-50. That is a $86 annual difference in favour of the Mazda BT-50.
Estimated annual total: $2,081 (Toyota HiLux) vs $1,995 (Mazda BT-50). The Mazda BT-50 saves you roughly $86 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Toyota HiLux) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda BT-50). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Toyota HiLux if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mazda BT-50 if: You want lower running costs, need stronger towing, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Toyota HiLux takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Mazda BT-50 will save you roughly $86 a year in fuel. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Toyota HiLux and Mazda BT-50?
The Toyota HiLux is the cheapest at $33,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Mazda BT-50 by $2,410.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mazda BT-50 uses the least fuel at 7L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Toyota HiLux and Mazda BT-50 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which can tow the most?
The Mazda BT-50 has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Toyota HiLux makes the most power at 150kW. The Toyota HiLux is quickest to 100km/h in 10.2s.
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.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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