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2006 Mazda B-Series Full Review
Date Published: 7/31/08
Also in the 2006 Mazda B-Series Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
2006 Mazda B-Series Review
Mazda's pickup truck is a Ford-built design shared with that company's Ranger. They differ slightly in styling and features. B-Series is offered as a regular cab and as the Cab Plus 4 extended cab. Both come with a 2-passenger front bench seat with bucket seats optional. The Cab Plus 4 adds two rear jump seats and two rear-hinged rear doors that do not open independently of the front doors. The B2300 has a 2.3-liter 4-cyl engine. B3000s use a 3.0-liter V6, B4000s a 4.0 V6. All use a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. B2300 and B3000s are rear-wheel drive only; B3000 Dual Sport and B4000 base models have 2WD, but use a 4WD-style raised suspension. B4000 SEs have 4WD that should be disengaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. Antilock brakes are standard on all. The B-Series' performance and accommodations mirror those of similarly equipped Rangers.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Pickups offer a true-truck design in a relatively modest package. They are best suited for personal or light-duty use rather than commercial use, heavy hauling, or towing.
Our Best Buy is Toyota Tacoma. Our Recommended picks include Dodge Dakota and Honda Ridgeline.
New or significantly redesigned models include Isuzu i-280/i-350 and Mitsubishi Raider.
Our Best Buy is Toyota Tacoma. Our Recommended picks include Dodge Dakota and Honda Ridgeline.
New or significantly redesigned models include Isuzu i-280/i-350 and Mitsubishi Raider.
News
Like its Ford Ranger parent, the B-Series faces a very uncertain future, given the big losses and management turmoil now plaguing Ford Motor Company. Yet even if Ford's "Way Forward" recovery plan starts turning things around, these pickups are deemed low priorities on the to-redo list, so don't look for any major changes any time soon. There had been talk that Mazda would be assigned the Ranger/B-Series redesign, but it's unclear if that's still the case.
2006 Mazda B-Series Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration (B4000) | Ride |
| Build quality | Rear-seat comfort |
| Rear-seat entry/exit (extended cab) | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
V6s have fine power at all speeds, mesh nicely with 5-speed automatic. We've had no opportunity to test the 2.3 4-cyl, but it's likely to feel underpowered when heavily loaded or going uphill.
| B3000 Dual Sport reg. cab, auto. | B4000 SE Cab Plus 4, auto. | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4.8 |
V6s have fine power at all speeds, mesh nicely with 5-speed automatic. We've had no opportunity to test the 2.3 4-cyl, but it's likely to feel underpowered when heavily loaded or going uphill.
Fuel Economy
Test Ford Ranger 4WD SuperCabs with 4.0 V6 and automatic transmission averaged 12.9-14.4 mpg in mix of city/highway driving; comparable Mazda B-Series models will be similar. EPA fuel-economy estimates for 2WD versions are 2-3 mpg better. Expect little difference with 3.0 V6. 4-cyl models should average in the low-to-mid 20s. Ford and Mazda recommend regular-grade fuel for all engines.
| B3000 Dual Sport reg. cab, auto. | B4000 SE Cab Plus 4, auto. | Class Average |
| 4 | 3 | 4 |
Test Ford Ranger 4WD SuperCabs with 4.0 V6 and automatic transmission averaged 12.9-14.4 mpg in mix of city/highway driving; comparable Mazda B-Series models will be similar. EPA fuel-economy estimates for 2WD versions are 2-3 mpg better. Expect little difference with 3.0 V6. 4-cyl models should average in the low-to-mid 20s. Ford and Mazda recommend regular-grade fuel for all engines.
Ride Quality
Decent for trucks, regardless of engine or brand name. They jiggle some on rough roads, but absorb big bumps well.
| B3000 Dual Sport reg. cab, auto. | B4000 SE Cab Plus 4, auto. | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 4.3 |
Decent for trucks, regardless of engine or brand name. They jiggle some on rough roads, but absorb big bumps well.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Stable in corners with moderate body lean, nicely weighted steering, and good directional stability.
| B3000 Dual Sport reg. cab, auto. | B4000 SE Cab Plus 4, auto. | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 3.9 |
Stable in corners with moderate body lean, nicely weighted steering, and good directional stability.
Quietness
Not quite as car-quiet as Dodge Dakota, but has better isolation from engine, wind, and road noise than most compact trucks. V6s are smooth.
| B3000 Dual Sport reg. cab, auto. | B4000 SE Cab Plus 4, auto. | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 4.4 |
Not quite as car-quiet as Dodge Dakota, but has better isolation from engine, wind, and road noise than most compact trucks. V6s are smooth.
Controls
Convenient dashboard, solid overall assembly, and good-quality interior materials.
| B3000 Dual Sport reg. cab, auto. | B4000 SE Cab Plus 4, auto. | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 5.8 |
Convenient dashboard, solid overall assembly, and good-quality interior materials.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Good head and leg room, but three adults are a tight squeeze, and entry/exit borders on awkward in high-riding 4WD versions and 2WD Dual Sport models.
| B3000 Dual Sport reg. cab, auto. | B4000 SE Cab Plus 4, auto. | Class Average |
| 3 | 4 | 5.2 |
Good head and leg room, but three adults are a tight squeeze, and entry/exit borders on awkward in high-riding 4WD versions and 2WD Dual Sport models.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Cab Plus 4's rear half doors are beneficial, but extended-cab's rear-seat area best used for toddlers or cargo. Regular-cab has slightly more seat travel, seatback recline than rivals.
| B3000 Dual Sport reg. cab, auto. | B4000 SE Cab Plus 4, auto. | Class Average |
| 0 | 1 | 2.5 |
Cab Plus 4's rear half doors are beneficial, but extended-cab's rear-seat area best used for toddlers or cargo. Regular-cab has slightly more seat travel, seatback recline than rivals.
Cargo Room
Better-than-average behind-seat regular-cab space. Extended cabs carry lots of stuff. Dual rear doors are nice, but don't open independently of the fronts, making loading difficult in confined spaces.
| B3000 Dual Sport reg. cab, auto. | B4000 SE Cab Plus 4, auto. | Class Average |
| 1 | 3 | 3.7 |
Better-than-average behind-seat regular-cab space. Extended cabs carry lots of stuff. Dual rear doors are nice, but don't open independently of the fronts, making loading difficult in confined spaces.
Value within Class
These Mazdas share an aged but still-viable design with their Ford Ranger siblings. Rangers, however, are available with more popular equipment and at a greater number of dealerships.
| B3000 Dual Sport reg. cab, auto. | B4000 SE Cab Plus 4, auto. | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 6.2 |
These Mazdas share an aged but still-viable design with their Ford Ranger siblings. Rangers, however, are available with more popular equipment and at a greater number of dealerships.
Total Score
| B3000 Dual Sport reg. cab, auto. | B4000 SE Cab Plus 4, auto. | Class Average |
| 33 | 37 | 44.8 |
Scores for all Compact Pickup Trucks
| Low Score | 32 | |
| Average Score | 44 | |
| High Score | 60 |
2006 Mazda B-Series Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 01/03/2006
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| 2WD B2300 Base regular cab | $15,340 | $14,536 | $620 |
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| 2WD B3000 Base Cab Plus 4 extended cab | $18,890 | $17,307 | $620 |
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| 4WD B4000 Base Cab Plus 4 extended cab | $21,895 | $20,048 | $620 |
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| 2WD B3000 Dual Sport regular cab | $19,525 | $17,692 | $620 |
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| 2WD B3000 Dual Sport Cab Plus 4 extended cab | $21,280 | $19,487 | $620 |
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| 4WD B4000 SE Cab Plus 4 extended cab | $26,440 | $24,192 | $620 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
B2300 Base
Powertrain
2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Antilock brakes, dual front airbags.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power steering, cloth upholstery, split bench seat, floor consolette, cupholders, AM/FM radio, digital clock, tachometer, variable-intermittent wipers, black vinyl floor covering.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, painted front bumper and rear step bumper.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
4-wire trailer harness, 225/70R15 tires.
B3000 Base adds to B2300 Base:
Powertrain
3.0-liter V6 engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, rear jump seats, rear-hinged rear doors, carpeting, floormats.
B4000 Base adds to B3000 Base:
Powertrain
4.0-liter V6 engine, 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Raised suspension, 235/75R15 all-terrain white-letter tires.
B3000 Dual Sport adds to B2300 Base:
Powertrain
3.0-liter V6 engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, rear jump seats (Cab Plus 4), power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, rear-hinged rear doors (Cab Plus 4), carpeting, floormats, rear privacy glass.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Sliding rear window, color-keyed bumpers, fog lights, bedliner.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Raised suspension, 235/75R15 all-terrain white-letter tires, alloy wheels.
B4000 SE adds to B3000 Dual Sport:
Powertrain
4.0-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case, limited-slip differential.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather-wrapped steering wheel, passenger-side visor mirror.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Chrome bumpers.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Tow-hitch receiver, skid plates, front tow hooks, 255/70R16 all-terrain white-letter tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
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SE-5 Pkg.
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B2300 Base
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$1,995
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$1,636
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Air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, AM/FM/CD player, carpeting, floormats, chrome bumpers and grille, alloy wheels.
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Powertrain |
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5-speed automatic transmission
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B2300 Base, B3000 Base, B3000 Dual Sport, B4000 Base
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$1,000
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$820
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Std. B4000 SE.
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Air conditioning
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B2300 Base
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$900
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$738
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Automatic day/night rearview mirror w/compass
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B2300 Base, B3000 Base, B3000 Dual Sport, B4000 Base, B4000 SE
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$150
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$120
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Automatic day/night rearview mirror
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B2300 Base, B3000 Base, B3000 Dual Sport, B4000 Base, B4000 SE
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$230
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$184
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Includes compass, outside-temperature indicator.
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Bucket seats
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B4000 SE, Dual Sport Cab Plus 4
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$225
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$185
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Side steps
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B2300 Base, B3000 Base, B3000 Dual Sport, B4000 Base, B4000 SE
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$370
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$296
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Bedliner
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B2300 Base, B3000 Base, B3000 Dual Sport, B4000 Base, B4000 SE
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$235
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$188
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Std. B3000 Dual Sport, B4000 SE.
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Bed extender
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B2300 Base, B3000 Dual Sport
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$295
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$236
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Bed rail caps
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B2300 Base, B3000 Base, B3000 Dual Sport, B4000 Base, B4000 SE
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$140
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$112
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NA w/tonneau cover, folding storage box.
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Folding storage box
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B2300 Base, B3000 Base, B3000 Dual Sport, B4000 Base, B4000 SE
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$315
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$270
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Requires bedliner. NA w/tonneau cover.
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Tonneau cover
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B2300 Base, B3000 Base, B3000 Dual Sport, B4000 Base, B4000 SE
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$330
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$264
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Door edge guards
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B2300 Base, B3000 Base, B3000 Dual Sport, B4000 Base, B4000 SE
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$75
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$60
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2006 Mazda B-Series Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Mazda B-Series regular cab | Mazda B-Series extended cab |
| Wheelbase, in. | 111.6 | 125.9 |
| Overall Length, in. | 187.5 | 201.7 |
| Overall Width, in. | 69.4 | 69.4 |
| Overall Height, in. | 64.9 | 64.8 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2999 | 3305 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | -- | -- |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | 1260 | 1680 |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 16.5 | 19.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 2 | 4 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.2 | 39.2 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.4 | 42.2 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | -- | 35.6 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | -- | 40.3 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I4 | ohv V6 | sohc V6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.3 /138 | 3.0 /182 | 4.0 /245 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 143 @ 5250 | 154 @ 5200 | 207 @ 5250 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 154 @ 3750 | 180 @ 3900 | 238 @ 3000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard |
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EPA City / highway mpg
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| 5-speed manual | 24/29 | 18/23 | 16/19 |
| 5-speed automatic | 22/26 | 18/22 | 16/20 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Mazda B-Series regular cab | Mazda B-Series extended cab |
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 | 4 |
| Rollover Resistance | 2 | 2 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/Unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
USA
Drivewheels:
4-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive
Also in the 2006 Mazda B-Series Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
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