Mazda’s B-Series compact pickup truck receives no mechanical changes for 2006. There are some deletions: the 3.0-litre is no longer available on Regular Cab models, and the 4.0-litre engine with a manual transmission is not available on the Dual Sport. New Bright Red exterior colour replaces Performance Red.
The B-Series, which is a Mazda-trimmed version of the Ford Ranger, is available in three engine sizes: the 2.3-litre four-cylinder B2300, the 3.0-litre V6 B3000, and the 4.0-litre V6 B4000. The base transmission is a five-speed manual that can be upgraded to a five-speed automatic. Configurations are regular cab and Cab Plus, with two small rear-hinged access doors and two rear jump seats. The 2.3-litre comes only in regular cab and two-wheel-drive. The 3.0-litre and 4.0-litre come only in Cab Plus. The 3.0-litre is also 2WD only; the 4.0-litre can be ordered in 2WD or 4WD.
Features on the B2300 include 15-inch steel wheels, ABS, front stabilizer bar, trailer tow harness, sliding rear window, privacy glass, 60/40 split bench seat, cloth upholstery, CD with four speakers and rear drum brakes. Air conditioning and an automatic transmission can be added.
The B3000 Dual Sport adds 15-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, full-size spare, limited slip axle and engine immobilizer. The air and automatic package can be added, along with a power package of power mirrors, windows and locks with keyless entry.
The B4000 Dual Sport adds power mirrors, windows and locks with keyless entry, air conditioning and an automatic transmission.
The B4000 SE includes the manual transmission, skid plates, 16-inch alloy wheels, chrome grille and bumpers, front tow hooks and premium cloth upholstery. The automatic transmission can be added, as well as an SE+ package of power mirrors, windows and locks with keyless entry, sport bucket seats, leather-wrapped wheel, cruise control and tilt steering.
The Mazda B-Series is a small truck compared to much of the competition, which has bulked up to midsize. Still, shorter drivers may find that the Mazda’s seating position still favours larger owners; those with shorter legs may have difficulty with the clutch, and a tilt wheel is only available on the B4000. The Mazda is an older design and lacks much of the refinement available in other models, but its low prices are very appealing if you don’t want a truck that thinks it’s a luxury car. The rear jump seats in the Cab Plus version are uncomfortable for adults; they’re suitable for older children, but must not be used with supplementary infant or child seats.
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