Mazda BT-50 vs Ford Ranger
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars 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 Ford Ranger opens at $37,130. That makes the Mazda BT-50 the more affordable entry point by $730.
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 $40,843 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mazda BT-50 and Ford Ranger hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the Mazda BT-50 and 84% for the Ford Ranger.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Ford Ranger packs more ADAS features with 5 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 9 in the Ford Ranger.
Feature Showdown
The Mazda BT-50 features a 7-inch touchscreen, while the Ford Ranger gets a 10.1-inch display and 8-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mazda BT-50 stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Ford Ranger. The Ford Ranger counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mazda BT-50 uses a Diesel producing 120kW and 400Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.9 seconds.
The Ford Ranger responds with a Diesel Turbo making 125kW and 405Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.5 seconds.
The Ford Ranger has the clear power advantage at 125kW vs 120kW. In the real-world sprint, the Ford Ranger is 0.4s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mazda BT-50 measures 5,320mm long on a 3,125mm wheelbase, 95mm longer than the Ford Ranger at 5,225mm (3,270mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Ford Ranger generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the Ford Ranger 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.
12.5m to 12.9m
Based on 12.5m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.9m 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 $2,024/year for the Mazda BT-50 and $1,967/year for the Ford Ranger. That is a $57 annual difference in favour of the Ford Ranger.
Estimated annual total: $2,024 (Mazda BT-50) vs $1,967 (Ford Ranger). The Ford Ranger saves you roughly $57 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 5 years / 999,999km (Ford Ranger). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mazda BT-50 if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Ford Ranger if: You prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer Ford's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Ford Ranger takes 3 of 4 key spec categories. The Ford Ranger will save you roughly $57 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, Mazda BT-50 and Ford Ranger?
The Mazda BT-50 is the cheapest at $36,400 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Ford Ranger by $730.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Ford Ranger uses the least fuel at 6.9L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Mazda BT-50 and Ford Ranger 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 Ford Ranger makes the most power at 125kW. The Ford Ranger is quickest to 100km/h in 10.5s.
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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