Mazda B-Series Truck Review

Many truck models have gained larger and larger dimensions over the years, but the long-lived Mazda B-Series bucked this trend by remaining a true compact pickup for its entire run. Initially an in-house effort, the B-Series ended up as a joint Ford/Mazda production. That's a nice way of saying that from 1994 onward, the B-Series was essentially a Ford Ranger wearing different clothes. But to its credit, Mazda's pickup never lost its compact identity, which made it relatively maneuverable without sacrificing too much pickup functionality.

The B-Series had its heyday in the late '90s to early 2000s. During these years, its nimbleness (on and off-road), trio of engine choices and large variety of trim configurations made it a tempting choice. But toward the end of its run, the Mazda stood frozen in time while rivals continued to improve. A well-maintained Mazda B-Series (or the similar Ranger) could be a good pick for those who need a basic pickup at a bargain price, but otherwise we'd advise looking elsewhere.

Most Recent Mazda B-Series

The final generation of the Mazda B-Series, based on the Ford Ranger, was introduced for the 2001 model year and soldiered on through 2009. It was available in three versions for most of its life: B2300, B3000 and B4000. Initially, all except the B2300 (two-wheel drive only) could be had in either two-wheel or four-wheel-drive guise, but from 2003 onward, only the B4000 could have 4WD. Antilock brakes were standard on all models for the entire production run, but other modern safety features like stability control and side curtain airbags were not available.

The B2300 was only available in a regular-cab body style and featured a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 142 horsepower. The B3000 was powered by a 3.0-liter V6 good for a pathetic 148 hp -- just 6 more than the B2300's four-banger. This model was discontinued after 2007. It was available in either regular-cab or extended-cab configuration. The latter included a pair of smaller rear doors along with flimsy flip-down rear seats, which the EPA did not recommend for safe transport. The B4000 featured a 207-hp 4.0-liter V6 and was only available in an extended-cab body style.

Notable equipment and options, depending on version and year, included a bedliner, alloy wheels, foglights, skid plates, a limited-slip differential, full power accessories, keyless entry, cruise control and a CD player with an auxiliary input jack. There was also the rugged Dual Sport model, a 2WD truck with a raised suspension and big tires that gave it a measure of off-road capability and a tough look. The flashy Troy Lee edition was named after a guy who designs colorful motocross helmets, representing an answer to a question nobody asked. Perhaps it was the brainchild of the same marketing genius who changed the B-Series truck's name to simply "Mazda Truck" for 2002, though thankfully that blunder was short-lived as well.

The best word our editors could think of to describe this most recent Mazda B-Series was "old." It drove like a relic from the 1990s and had an interior to match. As such, it was really only suitable for those with the most minimal of truck requirements. But if your needs fit this description, a used B-Series of this vintage could be a good pick. Shoppers looking for a basic, light-duty pickup might consider a B2300 with the manual gearbox, as consumer feedback has indicated fuel economy in the 23-30-mpg range. Those who plan on towing are advised to consider the B4000, which can tow up to 5,600 pounds.

Past Mazda B-Series Models

The previous generation of the Mazda B-Series, produced from 1994-2000, also shared its platform with the Ford Ranger. Initially, these B-Series trucks came in base, midgrade SE and luxury-level LE trims in standard or extended-cab body styles. There was a choice of three engines: a 2.3-liter four (98 hp), a 3.0-liter V6 (140 hp) and a 4.0-liter V6 (160 hp). Transmissions consisted of either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. The V6 versions offered a choice of 2WD or 4WD.

Model-year 1995 saw the debut of a standard driver's airbag and ABS for all B4000s and 2WD B3000s, while '96 saw the addition of a passenger bag in the upper trims. A five-speed automatic debuted for the B4000 in '97. A revamp took place for 1998 that included freshened styling, a stronger, 2.5-liter four and a revised front suspension for better ride and handling dynamics. The Cab Plus 4 debuted for '99 (essentially an extended cab with a pair of reverse-opening rear doors) as did the flashy Troy Lee edition.

At the time, we noted in Mazda B-Series reviews that the truck offered a good selection of configurations and attractive styling. Downsides included the limited functionality of the truck's rear seats and the lack of horsepower from even the top V6 engine.

Previous to '94, the B-Series was all Mazda. A 2.2-liter four-cylinder B2200 and 2.6-liter V6 B2600i were offered in standard and extended cabs. A five-speed manual was standard and a four-speed automatic optional, while only the B2600i could be had with four-wheel drive. Although these were decent trucks, the chance of finding one of these workhorses in good condition is slim, as they're well into their retirement years.