Mazda B-Series

Sports car heritage: The functionality of a truck enhanced by the soul of a sports car for both work and play; the B-Series´ sporty profile, muscular fenders and bold grille give it a distinctly athletic appearance

Versatile powertrains: Two engine choices are available for differing levels of power requirements, as well as available 5-speed automatic transmission, two body styles as well as 4x2 and 4x4 configurations.

Agile handling: A fully boxed front frame, independent double wishbone front suspension, power rack-and-pinion steering and compact size give the B-Series serious stability plus “flingability” for a more spirited driving experience.

Cargo and seating versatility: Available Cab Plus models with four doors and foldable rear jump seats offer increased seating capability, while a large cargo bed with removable tailgate and cargo tie-downs means there´s no need to leave anything behind.

Towing and off-road capability: Depending on the model chosen, when properly equipped the B-Series offers towing capacities ranging from 717 kg to 2,613 kg (1,580 lbs. to 5,760 lbs.), a payload range of 544 kg (1,200 lbs.) to 572 kg (1,260 lbs.) and a minimum ground clearance range of 170 mm to 201 mm (6.7 to 8.0 inches) for off-road applications.

Raised suspension models: Dual Sport models are 4x2 trucks with heightened suspensions for the “lifted” look and ground clearance of a 4x4, but with the lighter weight and lower cost of the less complex 4x2 system.

Safety: Provides a comprehensive package of safety features, both active and passive, including dual front airbags, daytime running lamps, available fog lights, tire pressure monitoring system, a 4-wheel anti-lock braking system and side impact protection intrusion beams.

• 4x2 models sport 15-inch wheels (alloy on Cab Plus models), while 4x4 models ride on 16-inch alloy wheels; Cab Plus models get a “lifted” look and wider, OWL all-terrain tires for a more rugged appearance.
• The monochromatic appearance on Cab Plus models lends a feeling of sculpted continuity, while fender flares with integrated mud flaps offer added protection.
• Front fog lights aid visibility in poor weather conditions (standard on Cab Plus models).
• Two front tow hooks (4x4 only), a removable tailgate and cargo box tie down hooks provide useful functionality; a trailer tow wiring harness allows easy electrical hook-ups for towing.
• Security bracket for PCM provides additional anti-theft protection.
• Deep-tinted privacy glass and a sliding rear window keep contents out of sight and provide relief from the summer heat.
• Front and rear 35 mm shock absorbers on the 4x4 reduces ride height by 16 mm.

• All B-Series trucks are outfitted with a supportive, well-contoured 60/40-split bench seat, including a centre armrest with storage. Cab Plus models offer quick access to a cargo area big enough to hold luggage and offer the additional convenience of side-facing fold-down rear jump seats. Front sport bucket seats with a floor console and armrest are available on 4x4 models.
• Front consolette includes dual cupholders.
• Standard audio in the B-Series truck is an AM/FM stereo with CD player with MP3 capability, auxiliary input and four speakers, while satellite radio is included in the Power and SE Plus Packages.
• Available CFC-free air conditioning is both passenger- and environment-friendly (standard on 4.0L SE Cab Plus models).
• Power Package adds power conveniences such as power mirrors, windows and door locks with keyless entry, cruise control and tilt steering wheel (included in the Power and SE Plus Packages. The SE Plus Package also has sport bucket seats and a leather wrapped steering wheel).

• The entry-level 4x2 Regular Cab 2.3L SX is equipped with Mazda´s 2.3L engine, producing an ample 143 hp @ 5,250 rpm.
• Maximum power is offered in the 4x2 and 4x4 Cab Plus 4.0L models, with a 4.0L SOHC V6 engine with 207 hp @ 5,250 rpm.
• Both engines use cam chains instead of belts, and therefore need no scheduled replacements.
• Maximum power is offered in the 4x2 and 4x4 Cab Plus 4.0L models, with a 4.0L SOHC V6 engine with 207 hp @ 5,250 rpm.

All B-Series models are equipped with a standard 5-speed manual transmission that features carbon-fibre-lined synchronizer blocker rings for smoother, better shifting.

Power rack and pinion steering keeps the B-Series truck easy to manoeuvre both on the highway and in the close confines of parking lots.

Exceptional handling is attributed to a double wishbone front suspension with stabilizer bar and coil springs, allowing each front wheel to step over road imperfections with minimal effect on the opposite wheel. Dual Sport and 4x4 models are equipped with torsion bars, helping provide excellent ride and handling on tough terrain.

4x4 models feature steel fuel tank and transfer case skid plates for added protection while off-roading. A limited-slip rear differential is standard on 4.0L models.

The maximum GCWRs for the B-Series are as follows:

• 4x2 Regular Cab 2.3L SX models: 2,495 kg (5,500 lbs) with automatic transmission
• 4x2 Cab Plus 4.0L DS and 4x4 Cab Plus 4.0L SE models: 4,309 kg (9,500 lbs) with automatic transmission

The maximum towing capacities, when properly equipped, for the B-Series truck is as follows:

• 4x2 Regular Cab 2.3L SX models: 1,025 kg (2,260 lbs) with automatic transmission
• 4x2 Cab Plus 4.0L DS models: 2,613 kg (5,760 lbs) with automatic transmission
• 4x4 Cab Plus 4.0L SE models: 2,540 kg (5,600 lbs) with automatic transmission

Payload is the maximum allowable weight of people, cargo and body equipment, and is reduced by the weight of optional equipment.

The payload ratings on the B-Series truck are as follows:

• 4x2 Regular Cab 2.3L SX models (manual or automatic transmission): 544 kg (1,200 lbs.)
• Cab Plus models (manual or automatic transmission): 572 kg (1,260 lbs.)

The Cab Plus models have a powerful 4.0-litre SOHC 12-valve V6 engine, churning out 207 hp @ 5,250 rpm and 238 lb-ft of torque @ 3,000 rpm for impressive pulling power. The intake uses a variable induction system designed to produce higher engine torque at lower engine speeds.

All Mazda B-Series truck engines are engineered with a metal timing chain that requires no maintenance and an electronic distributorless ignition system with platinum-tipped spark plugs that only need to be replaced every 160,000 km (lowering maintenance costs).

Each B-Series engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. This transmission features carbon-fibre-lined synchronizer blocker rings for smoother shifting and enhanced driver control, as well as a lockout feature that prevents the driver from accidentally shifting into reverse.

Mazda also offers an optional 5-speed electronic automatic transmission on every model in the B-Series lineup. This silky-shifting automatic provides a wide range of gear ratios to deliver optimal performance, especially when climbing grades or under load. It also features a lockup torque converter and an overdrive on/off switch.

The 4x4 Cab Plus 4.0-litre SE is Mazda´s most versatile B-Series truck model, offering rugged all-terrain proficiency. Steel skid plates protect the fuel tank and transfer case, while wider tires and a limited-slip differential (also available on the 4.0-litre 4x2 models) put power to the ground. Under normal driving conditions, the vehicle operates in 2WD mode, with power being delivered to the rear axle only. Four-wheel drive is engaged by way of a dash-mounted, rotary-switch-controlled electronic “Shift-on-the-fly” 2-speed transfer case with planetary gears and automatic locking front hubs.

The 4WD system can be quickly and easily engaged in one of two modes, with no need to stop or back up, and power is delivered to both front and rear axles. Four-wheel drive High is used in severe weather or off-road conditions, such as snow, ice or shallow sand; 4x4 Low is reserved for very low traction situations and off-road applications that require additional pulling power, such as steep grades, mud and deep sand. It is important to know when to engage 4WD and what mode is appropriate for the conditions - using 4WD on pavement can result in difficulty engaging the transfer case, increased tire wear and reduced fuel economy.

Customers who want that aggressive, off-road package without the additional weight and price gain can opt for a Dual Sport 4x2 model, with a lifted look and heightened ground clearance that eschews the extra weight and complexity of a 4x4 model. Dual Sport models have proven to be one of Mazda´s most popular B-Series configurations since their inception in 2001.

The B-Series truck boasts a plush interior with comfortable cloth-trimmed seating and full floor carpeting with floor mats. A 60/40-split seat provides spacious, contoured support for the driver and front passenger, with a centre fold-down armrest and 4-way seat adjustment. Cab Plus models are further equipped with side-facing, fold-down rear jump seats that increase seating capacity to up to five persons.

Deep-tinted privacy glass on the sliding rear window deters both the glare of the sun and prying eyes, while the opening window provides a fresh air vent for increased interior comfort and convenient pass-through access to the rear cargo bed. Standard on the 4.0-litre Cab Plus SE models and available on all others, CFC-free air conditioning is both passenger- and environment-friendly.

The 4x4 Cab Plus 4.0-litre SE model provides additional comfort with upgraded seat trim and an available leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel with integrated cruise control. Front sport bucket seats are also available for a more personalized seating configuration.

A large, easy-to-read instrument gauge cluster is driver-oriented and includes a tachometer, as well as other useful displays. Ample storage is prevalent throughout the cabin. A front consolette with cupholders is standard on all models; Cab Plus models add rear cupholders and door map pockets. Other conveniences include variable-intermittent windshield wipers, sunvisors, a day/night rearview mirror and an instrument panel mounted 12-volt auxiliary power point.

For enhanced creature comfort and convenience, the Power package, including power exterior mirrors, power windows, power door locks and remote keyless entry with two transmitters, is standard on 4x2 Cab Plus 4.0-litre DS models, and included in the SE Plus package on 4x4 models.

The audio system in the B-Series truck is a quality AM/FM stereo with in-dash single CD player and four speakers, providing listening enjoyment for on- and off-road adventures. The CD player is MP3-compatible and includes an auxiliary input for connecting an iPod or other portable music device. Satellite radio is also part of the SE Plus Package and Power Package, giving occupants plenty of choice for their listening pleasure.

The B-Series extends versatility and functionality to the outside of the vehicle as well. The cargo bed has excellent capacity for hauling and features tie-down hooks that serve as attachment points for securing large, bulky loads. Two-tier loading allows for more versatile cargo handling. The double-wall construction of the cargo bed adds durability and helps prevent cargo box dents, etc., from surfacing on the outer sheet metal. An underbody-mounted spare tire with a crank up/down feature enhances functionality by freeing up useful cargo space.

• Side impact protection intrusion beams in each door help protect occupants in the event of a side impact collision.
• Front “crumple zones” help absorb crash energy by progressively collapsing during a collision to enhance occupant protection.
• Driver´s and passenger´s front dual airbag system includes a passenger-side deactivation switch, allowing the passenger-side airbag to be turned off when carrying a child safety seat.
• Front safety belts have shoulder belt height adjustment for a more effective fit and support in the event of a collision.
• Security bracket for PCM provides additional anti-theft protection.
• Available fog lamps (standard on Dual Sport and 4x4 models) provide additional visibility in poor weather conditions.
• Tire pressure monitoring system warns when pressure falls below the recommended psi.
• A 4-wheel anti-lock braking system provides extra reassurance and control.

Mazda engineers keep passenger safety at the forefront of every consideration when designing their vehicles, and the B-Series truck is no exception. It boasts a comprehensive package of both active and passive safety features.

There are two categories of safety features: active and passive. An active safety feature is one that will physically aid the driver in controlling the vehicle, increasing the possibility of avoiding an accident. In the unfortunate circumstance you are involved in a collision, however, passive safety features help protect the occupants of the vehicle from injury.

Examples of active safety features on the B-Series include the anti-lock braking system and power-assisted steering. These features physically aid the driver in maintaining control of the vehicle under a variety of road and situational conditions.

A tire pressure monitoring system is standard on all B-Series models. It can help avert the risks of driving with a flat tire by warning the driver if any individual tire´s pressure falls below the recommended safe level.

Passive safety features abound on the B-Series; they include chassis design and component safety features, as well as airbag systems and crash management. All models are built with a tough body-on-frame construction, with standard front door side impact intrusion beams to protect occupants in the event of a side impact collision. Front “crumple zones” help absorb crash energy by progressively collapsing during a collision, enhancing occupant protection.

To further enhance safety, the B-Series is equipped with a collapsible steering column to reduce injury to the driver´s chest area in the event of a collision. Additionally, a fuel pump inertia cutoff switch automatically cuts power to the fuel pump in the event of a collision, reducing the risk of fire from leaking fuel. Daytime running lamps and available front fog lights heighten visibility during adverse weather conditions.

Two-piston calipers means an equal amount of brake pad force is applied to both sides of the rotor for even wear. The ventilated disc design allows cooling air to pass between the flat plates of the disc, dissipating heat and thereby reducing brake fade.

Furthermore, all B-Series trucks are equipped with 4-wheel, 4-sensor, 3-channel ABS. This anti-lock braking system helps prevent the wheels from locking during hard or panic brake application. The system works by pulsing the brakes at a high rate of speed, while individually monitoring each wheel for lock-up. At the moment wheel lock-up occurs, a tiny amount of brake pressure is released to that wheel in order to encourage it to rotate again. This system is beneficial in that it aids in maintaining directional control, allowing the driver to steer out of hazardous situations, even on uncertain road surfaces.

If a collision causes the front airbags to deploy, pretensioners in the front safety belts tighten when impact is detected, in order to reduce forward body movement. Load limiters then release the safety belt in a controlled manner to help reduce the chance of injury to the occupant´s chest area.