1998-2008 Mazda B-Series: Road Test

Engines make the difference under B-Series hoods. Four-cylinder trucks struggle to gain speed when loaded with cargo or aimed uphill, especially with an automatic transmission. Even with manual shift, a 2WD 4-cylinder model took nearly 13 seconds to reach 60 mph. Fuel economy is more pleasing. We averaged 20.1 mpg in a 4-cylinder B2500. We recommend the 4.0-liter V6, which uses only slightly more fuel than the 3.0 V6 and costs only slightly more. Although the 4.0 liter is a bit coarse and noisy, it offers plenty of low-speed torque and should perform most tasks with ease. That engine also works well with the 5-speed automatic transmission and furnishes prompt passing power. None of these engines is quiet, though the sixes are slightly smoother than the four. The OHC V6, added in 2001, is smooth, quieter than previous gruff 4.0. Like its Ford Ranger cousin, the Mazda B-Series rides and handles admirably for a truck. Yes, it jiggles more on rough roads than most cars. Still, the suspension absorbs most bumps without jarring the occupants, and provides stable cornering with moderate body lean. The 4WD system cannot be used on dry pavement, but is otherwise as convenient as they come. A dashboard knob switches between 2- and 4-wheel drive while on the move. Slightly roomier than before, with more behind-the-seat storage space, the regular-cab interior is still not spacious. The longer regular cab allows the seatback to be tilted farther back than before, and seat travel is greater than in some rivals. Still, taller drivers may find the Cab Plus layout a necessity for comfort. Some shorter drivers may declare the bottoms of the bucket seats to be too long, catching them behind the knees. The 4-door Cab Plus 4 option is a big plus, but those rear-hinged back doors are narrow and cannot be opened unless the front door has been opened first. Even with a bench seat, three adults would be a tight squeeze up front. Entry/exit borders on awkward in the higher-riding 4x4s. Cab Plus models have a pair of child-sized rear seats that flip down from the sidewalls, but that area is more useful for cargo than people. Controls are positioned within easy reach, in a carlike interior, though the climate panel is recessed too much for quick adjustment. Radio controls are easier to use than in the past. Solid in build, Mazda trucks use better quality interior materials than might be expected in a compact pickup.

Value for the Money
Yes, Mazda pickups lack a few features available on rivals, including a third door (on extended-cab GM pickups) and the V8 option and full-time 4WD of a Dodge Dakota. Nevertheless, the B-Series is refined, well-built, and priced sensibly. No wonder Ranger has been the top-selling compact truck. Because Mazda's B-Series does not sell as well as the Ford Ranger, prices are likelier to be a bit lower than trucks wearing a Ford badge.