(continued)
Topping the B-Series line-up is the B4000. Its 4.0-liter
V6 packs a mighty 207 horsepower at 5,250 rpm and 238 lb-ft of torque at 3,000
rpm. It achieves city/highway fuel economy of 16/19 mpg (16/20 with 5-speed
A/T). A limited-slip rear differential is standard, as is a Class III trailer
hitch. With this equipment, this powerhouse has a towing capacity of 5,600
pounds, which is more than enough to handle a ski boat, camper or racecar.
The powerful 4.0-liter engine also can be mated to a sophisticated 4x4
drivetrain, with shift-on-the-fly activation for go-anywhere ability. In
vehicles with automatic transmissions, the driver simply presses a button on the
dash to electronically engage 4x4 High. In cars with manual transmission a
simple lever does the job. 4x4 High can be activated at speeds up 25 mph.
All 4x4 B-Series trucks feature low-range gearing and automatic-locking front
hubs for tackling steep hills and low traction situations like deep mud or snow,
or slippery boat loading ramps. In concert with the limited-slip rear
differential, the B4000 is ready for nearly everything.
With usability at the forefront of most truck designers' minds, driveability
hardly gets a thought. But at Mazda things are different. Mazda's sports car
heritage ensures that every single Mazda is great to drive – and that includes
the B-Series.
Mazda B-Series trucks are fitted with an independent double-wishbone front
suspension, which allows a great amount of wheel-travel for tough off-highway
operation without sacrificing on-road feel or performance. A leaf-spring set-up
for the rear is tuned to provide a comfortable ride and great road handling
without compromising the truck's core ability as a load carrier.
On B3000 Dual Sport and B4000 models, the standard-issue front coil springs are
replaced with torsion bars in combination with a raised ride height to give
buyers a rugged off-road look, but without the additional cost and complexity of
a 4x4 system. Dual Sport models also benefit from a rear stabilizer bar to
minimize body-roll when cornering.
Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, gas-filled shock absorbers and a front
stabilizer bar are fitted on all models for sure on-road drivability and
response as well as great off-highway durability.
In addition, all B-Series trucks feature power-assisted front ventilated disc
brakes with rear drums. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes are fitted as standard
across the range to prevent wheel lockup and reduce stopping distances in
certain conditions. These features, more commonly found in road cars than
trucks, combine to ensure that the B-Series is a great drive.
Style Meets Substance
The tough good looks of the B-Series emphasize this truck's superb usability and
all-round performance. The wide stance gives reassuring stability as well as a
real sense of power, and the rounded corners and sculpted fenders add a sporty
feel.
Dual Sport models offer an even more aggressive stance with their raised
suspension, wheel arch flares and body-colored bumpers, mirrors and door
handles. Riding on 15-inch alloy wheels, Dual Sport models emulate the off-road
racing "pre-runner" trucks that scout race courses.
The top-of-the-line B4000 4x4 SE rides on unique 16-inch alloy wheels and boasts
a chrome grille to further distinguish it.
All B-Series model are superbly practical, offering standard cargo-bed tie-down
hooks, and a wide range of options such as a cargo-bed extender, retractable
tie-down hooks, tie-down loops, a soft tonneau cover and a folding storage box.
Front and rear mudguards are standard across the range. Lighting is taken care
of with clear-lens halogen headlights and tri-color-lens taillight clusters. .
B4000, B4000 SE and B3000 Dual Sport models also add standard fog lamps.
Inside, a spacious 60/40 split-bench front seat is standard on all B-Series
trucks, and stylish sports bucket seats are optional on B3000 Dual Sport Cab
Plus four-door and B4000 SE models. Base models (B2300, B3000 and B4000) have
manual windows, door locks and an AM/FM two-speaker audio system. Dual Sport and
SE versions boast electric windows, power door locks with two-stage unlocking,
and an AM/FM/CD four-speaker audio system.
Interior storage space is abundant and clever. Bins within the center console,
center armrest and front doors are spacious, and a pair of cupholders are also
positioned to be driver-friendly.
Cab Plus four-door models add extra storage in the rear doors and a pair of
cupholders for rear passengers. In keeping with convenience, an optional remote
keyless entry system is available on Dual Sport and SE models.
Mazda vehicles are designed with safety at the top of the agenda and the
B-Series is certainly no exception. All B-Series models provide side-impact door
beams in the front and dual front airbags. The passenger airbag has a
deactivation switch which is ideal for use when carrying a child or when using a
rear-facing child seat. Mazda was the first import-nameplate manufacturer to
offer this switch. Front safety-belt pre-tensioners with force limiters,
three-point safety belts for outboard seating positions and height adjustable
front shoulder-belt anchors are also standard.
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