2009 Mazda B-Series news, pictures, and information

2009 MAZDA B-SERIES: ROUGH AND RUGGED COMPACT TRUCK

The available automatic transmission in the 2009 Mazda B-Series is a sophisticated and smooth-shifting five-speed. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, which like all

Mazdas, is designed for quick shifting to get the very best performance from the engine.

The entry model B2300's 2.3-liter double overhead cam (DOHC) 16-valve, four-cylinder engine produces a spirited 143 horsepower at 5,250 rpm and 154 lb-ft of torque at 3,750 rpm. With the manual, the B2300 returns 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway (19/24 wîth 5-speed A/T).

Topping the 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 15/19 mpg (14/18 wîth 5-speed A/T). With this equipment, this powerhouse has a towing capacity of 5,600 pounds, which is more than enough to handle a ski boat, personal watercraft, camper or racecar.

The powerful 4.0-liter engine this engine is only offered on 4x4 models to a sophisticated 4x4 drivetrain, wîth shift-on-the-fly activation for go-anywhere ability. In vehicles wîth automatic transmissions, the driver simply presses a button on the dash to electronically engage 4x4 High. In trucks wîth 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.

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 each Mazda is fun to drive - and that includes the B-Series.

Mazda B-Series trucks are fitted wîth 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.

Power-assisted rack-and-pinion §teering, 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 wîth 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 TO MATCH PERFORMANCE

The rugged 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.

All B-Series models 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 and a soft tonneau cover.

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. Inside, a spacious 60/40 split-bench front seat is standard on all B-Series trucks. Base models have manual windows, door locks and an AM/FM two-speaker audio system

Cab Plus four-door models add extra storage in the rear doors and a pair of cupholders for rear passengers.

Mazda vehicles are designed wîth 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. Front safety-belt pre-tensioners wîth force limiters, three-point safety belts for outboard seating positions and height-adjustable front shoulder-belt anchors are also standard.

All 2009 Mazdas come wîth a roadside assistance program. With a call to a toll-free number, owners can access roadside assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year throughout the Únited States and Canada. In addition, a comprehensive three-year/36,000-mile warranty covers every part on the vehicle except those subject to normal wear. Also, all 2009 models receive a five-year/60,000 mile powertrain warranty and a five-year/unlimited-mileage corrosion warranty.

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the Únited States,

Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario, Canada, and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.