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By Mike MagdaPickupTrucks.com
November 4, 2008
What once was an energetic partnership between Mazda and Ford has slowly decomposed into an automotive history sidebar. The B-Series is now just a two-vehicle lineup based on the Ford Ranger, which is the oldest compact-truck platform on the market. Production of the Ranger and B-Series was scheduled to end by 2010, but high gas prices rekindled interest in a lightweight truck with a gas-sipping four-cylinder engine. Mazda offers a B2300 regular cab 4x2 and a B4000 Cab Plus 4x4. Both come with 6-foot-long cargo beds. There are no trim levels and few options for either truck. The best selling points for the B-Series are the low prices, petite size and fuel economy. The B2300 gets an EPA-estimated 21/26 mpg city/ highway, which is the best among all pickup trucks. New for 2009 Most of the changes for 2009 involve deletions. The high-end Cab Plus 4x4 SE model is discontinued. Mazda also dropped four exterior colors, and the AM/FM radio has fewer station presets. A Class III trailer hitch is now standard. Exterior While the silhouette is identical, the B-Series is easily distinguished from the Ranger by the Mazda grille emblem. The truck has a sturdy stance and simple character lines. Those who want to spend the money can find plenty of dress-up items to personalize the appearance.
It's a no-frills truck designed for working-class heroes; no power windows or door locks. Air conditioning is standard on the B4000 but optional on the B2300. There's a cloth-trimmed front bench seat with vinyl flooring in the B2300 and carpet in the B4000. Interior storage is adequate.
The B-Series offers the basics and little more. There are dual front airbags, three-point seat belts in the outboard positions and side-impact door beams. Other safety features include:
Find a NEW Mazda B2300 for SaleFind dealers and new car inventory in your area.
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