2001 Mazda B-Series: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The Ford-built B-Series shares its design with the Ford Ranger. B2300s have a 135-hp 2.3-liter 4-cyl engine that replaced a 119-hp 2.5-liter four during the model year. B3000s use a 3.0-liter V6, B4000s a 4.0 V6 allowing a 5900-lb towing capacity. All offer a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Available is rear-wheel drive or 4WD that must be disengaged on dry pavement but includes low-range gearing. B2300s are rear drive only. ABS is standard on all models. Cab Plus extended-cab has no rear doors. Extended Cab Plus 4 has two rear-hinged rear doors that do not open independently of the front doors. Both extendeds have two folding rear jump seats. DS models have 2WD but use 4x4-style raised suspension, body-color trim, fender flares. B-Series' performance and accommodations mirror similarly equipped Rangers.

COMPETITION

Among compact pickups two vehicles really stand out: The Dodge Dakota and the Ford Ranger (and clone Mazda B-Series). Dakota is the only one to offer a V8 engine and near-full-size cargo and towing capacity. Ranger is the most refined and probably the best daily use vehicle.

This year we are limiting our Recommended choices to the Toyota Tacoma. It's every bit as good as the Ranger in daily use, just a tad more expensive.