2007 Mazda B-Series Review
The B-Series is a pickup truck first introduced in 1972. Since 1994, it’s been based on the Ford Ranger. The current generation debuted in 1998.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
Some might say that the Mazda B-Series is hopelessly outdated. And in some ways, they’re right. You won’t find modern safety features or conveniences here. But what you will find is a compact, practical truck with a mature and road-tested design. It might be bare bones, but it’ll get the job done.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power data is not available. Problems in this generation include high engine temperatures, vehicle noise, and wiper problems. It’s been recalled five times for issues such as possible fuel leakage, improperly disengaging cruise control, improperly heat treated seatbelts, seatbelts that wouldn’t fully latch, and improperly greased wiper motors. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The B-Series earned 4.5 stars in government frontal tests and 5 stars in side tests. The IIHS gave it an “Acceptable” in frontal tests and “Poor” in rear tests. Anti-lock brakes are standard.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Good reliability
+ Easily fits into tight spaces
+ Good off-road capability
Cons
– Total lack of safety features
– Aged design
– Poor value
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Chevrolet Colorado costs $750 less, has air conditioning, more payload capacity, and 40 more hp. The Toyota Tacoma at the same price offers a CD player and automatic transmission. However, the B-Series is $500 less than the Nissan Frontier, has more payload capacity, and gets four more miles to the gallon.
What Others Are Saying:
“Despite their age, we’ve always liked both the Ford and Mazda versions of this truck. On and off the road, we found these trucks to work well, with quick, sensitive steering and positive braking. Still, they’re overdue for a substantial redesign and update.” – Car and Driver
“The B-Series trucks are fun to drive, and comfortable enough to sooth aching bones at the end of an extreme day.” – PickupTruck.com
“In fact, it’s too bad Mazda let the B4000 die on the vine. Gas prices may have dipped in the past few weeks, but the country’s automotive gestalt has shifted. Enormous and irresponsible is out; moderate and slightly less irresponsible is in. It’s the perfect time to release a small, efficient truck that’s about 80% as useful as the full-sized giants so many people are currently unloading (so to speak). But no, at a time when Honda’s Ridgeline has (almost) reignited and (just about) re-invented the light-truck market, FoMoCo is content to let another market segment fall entirely into the hands of Honda, Toyota and Nissan. While the B4000 has its supporters, it will eventually be remembered as a forgettable experience.” – The Truth About Cars
Read more about the 2007 Mazda B-Series at the Mazda manufacturer web site.
