Mazda's small pickup is available in B2300 and B4000 versions.
A 2.3-liter four-cylinder powers the B2300 series, while the B4000
version is equipped with a 4.0-liter V-6. The B-Series is closely
related to the Ford Ranger. Four-wheel-drive pickups feature front
hubs that can lock automatically.
Little has changed for 2008. The B4000 has been lowered, and SE
models get a standard skid plate to protect the front suspension.
The V-6-powered B3000 has been dropped.
B2300
Mazda's B2300 pickup comes in only one form: a regular-cab pickup with rear-wheel
drive. A cargo-bed extender is optional. Ford Motor Company, which holds a controlling
interest in Mazda, builds the B-Series compact pickups. For
years, the two companies have shared other products and components.
B4000
The B4000 comes
only in Cab Plus four-door configuration, in both base and better-equipped
SE trim levels. The SE edition is offered only with the automatic
transmission. Both B4000 models have four-wheel drive that includes
low-range gearing. Raised suspensions use torsion-bar front springs.
Each Cab Plus four-door edition features rear-hinged back doors
that can be opened only after the front doors are open. Cab Plus
four-door models are 202.9 inches long overall and have a 125.9-inch
wheelbase. The base model rides on 15-inch wheels, and the SE gets
16-inch wheels.
Exterior
Mazda's B2300 pickup has a regular cab and a 6-foot cargo bed.
The B2300's front suspension consists of double wishbones with
coil springs and a stabilizer bar, while semi-elliptic leaf springs
are installed in the rear.
Regular-cab models ride a 111.6-inch wheelbase, measure 187.5 inches
long overall and have 15-inch wheels. Options include tubular side
steps and a soft tonneau cover.
Interior
Mazda's B2300 model has a roomy cab with a standard three-place front bench seat.
Occupants get a fold-down armrest, and storage pockets are installed on the seatbacks.
Air conditioning is optional in the B2300.
Under the Hood
A 143-horsepower, 2.3-liter four-cylinder in the B2300 teams with either a standard
five-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed automatic.
A
207-hp, 4.0-liter V-6 in the B4000 teams with either a five-speed
manual or five-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Antilock brakes are standard, and a key-operated switch can deactivate
the passenger-side airbag. Side-impact airbags are not available.
A tire pressure monitoring system is standard.
