2.5L (FE-DE) I4, 3.0L (Vulcan) V6 (Note: Specific availability varied by year and market)
Performance
2.5L Fe-De Horsepower:
Approx. 118-122 hp @ 5000-5500 rpm
2.5L Fe-De Torque:
Approx. 144-150 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm
3.0L Vulcan V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 140-150 hp @ 4700-5000 rpm
3.0L Vulcan V6 Torque:
Approx. 165-170 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Std:
5-Speed Manual
Optional
Transmission Type Opt:
4-Speed Automatic
Features
Drive Type:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) (available options)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab
Bed Lengths:
Short Bed (approx. 6 ft), Long Bed (approx. 7 ft) (varies by cab configuration)
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,000 - 3,800 lbs (varies by configuration and drivetrain)
Payload Capacity Range:
Approx. 1,000 - 1,700 lbs (varies by configuration and drivetrain)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings General:
Mixed (Early models may have lower ratings; later models improved. Refer to specific NHTSA data for individual years.)
Active Features
ABS:
Available/Standard on some models/trims
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags standard on most models
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD or Cassette player, with basic speaker systems.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System availability varied by trim and year.
Connectivity
Bluetooth Phone:
Not typically factory-equipped in this era, aftermarket solutions common.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (check manual for specific oil type and interval)
Engine Coolant Change:
Initial change at 5 years/50,000 miles, then every 2-3 years/30,000 miles (check manual for coolant type)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Check condition. Automatic: Every 50,000-100,000 miles (check manual for fluid type and interval)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Commonly 5W-30 or 10W-30 (verify with manual based on engine and climate)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, often Asian Red or Green (verify with manual)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron III / Mercon compatible (verify with manual)
Known Issues
Frame Rust:
Corrosion and rust can be an issue, especially in areas with salt exposure on the chassis and bed.
Engine Vibration:
The 3.0L Vulcan V6 can sometimes exhibit minor vibrations, often related to mounts or balance.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older electrical systems can develop issues with grounds, connectors, or intermittent faults.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can wear over time, affecting alignment and ride quality.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Truck Lineage:
Mazda has a long history of producing light-duty trucks globally, often under different names.
Model Evolution
B Series Third Gen:
This generation marked a significant shift with its unibody construction (shared with Ford) and focus on a more car-like ride for a compact pickup.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Likely assembled in North America (as part of the Ford/Mazda partnership)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Segment Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Chevrolet S-10 / GMC Sonoma
Ratings
Industry Perception:
Recognized as a reliable and capable compact pickup truck, particularly valued for its straightforward mechanics and durability when properly maintained.