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2007 Mazda B4000 4x4 SE Cab Plus 4-Door Road Test

The last Mazda B-Series pickup that I drove was a 2002 model, and suffice to say that I could almost dust off that old review, change the model year date and increase the price in order to sufficiently

From this angle, there's not much separating it from Ford's popular Ranger. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, American Auto Press)

update it for 2007. This wouldn't be fair, however, as much has changed in the compact to midsize pickup truck market segment since the 2002 model year, which leaves a little truck I was once quite pleased with falling somewhat short of the mark. Then again, Mazda's worker B has one thing going for it none of its import competitors can compete with ... price.

Price aside, the problem Mazda faces is no fault of its own, other than a choice to hitch its wagon to Ford and the reality that, other than in other markets like Thailand where it sells a completely different compact pickup truck, the little Ranger hasn't seen an update in a very long a time. You see, the Ranger is the B4000's fraternal twin, a blessing and a curse for Mazda. It's a blessing because the Japanese brand probably wouldn't have a light-duty truck anymore if it wasn't for its ties to Dearborn, but a curse because Ford seems to have almost completely forgotten its compact workhorse amidst redesigning its entire full-size pickup, car and SUV lineup. Ironically, it was

And even less from this angle... (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, American Auto Press)

Mazda that used to make compact pickups for Ford (remember the Courier?), initiating this relationship in the first place. Still, as much as I would like to have seen a more modern version, there's still a fair deal to like about this honest to goodness work truck.

Before I get into the positives, mind you, let's run over a few of the things that give it a feeling of yesteryear. Firstly, Mazda doesn't even attempt to hide the B4000's parentage from would-be owners, as everything excepting its trademark grille and a few exterior and interior trim pieces duplicate the Ranger. And that includes the extra-wide, albeit evenly spaced exterior panel gaps, the big, clunky door handles, some Ford stickers in the engine bay, and an interior dash design that's pretty basic with window

Wide panel gaps and big, clunky door handles give it a yesteryear feel. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, American Auto Press)

switches from Ford's previous generation parts bin. The B4000 at least appears rugged.

Attempting to separate it from the Ranger, Mazda has updated the pickup's seats with much nicer two-toned chairs that give the truck a sportier look, while the leather wrapped steering wheel with integrated redundant cruise controls help improve its overall appeal. The white-faced instruments are a nice touch too, again spicing up what is otherwise a fairly low rent interior.

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