Mazda joins pickup fray by Colin Barnett • Mazda has
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launched its contribution to the crowded 2.5-3.0tonne pickup market. The B2500 range comprises just two models, the 4x2 Pick Up and the Cab Plus 4x4 Pick Up which is Mazda's first all-wheel-drive model.
Both versions are powered by a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder, naturally aspirated diesel engine, the Type WL. This indirect-injection OHC crossflow engine with three valves per cylinder produces 85hp (63kW) at 4,200rpm and 171Nm (126Ibft) at 2,000rpm. A selfcontrolling glow plug system is fitted to assist with engine warm-up.
Transmission is through a five-speed gearbox and leafsprung live rear axle. The 4x4 has a two-speed transfer box and selectable all-wheel drive with automatic free-wheeling hubs.
Load space The load space is reached by a tail-gate with a single central handle. The bed of the 4x2 measures 2,275x1,445mm; on the 4x4 the length is reduced to 1,825mm. Double-skinned body sides are 395mm high. A load space liner and tonneau cover (complete with handy central support) are available as options.
Based on Mazda's published kerb weights, net payload with a 75kg driver should be 1,210kg for the 4x4 and 1,140kg for the 4x2. Both versions are rated to tow a 2,000kg braked trailer.
Front suspension is indepen dent with torsion bars and an anti-roll bar. Braking is provided by ventilated front discs (256mm-diameter on the 4x2; 272mm on the 4x4) with 260mm-diameter drums at the rear. The chassis is a separate ladder frame, with a wheelbase of 3m and an overall length of 5m.
The 4x2 has a basic trim level, with a vinylcovered bench seat, plain 14in steel wheels and matt-black body trimmings. Engine speedsensing power steering, tinted glass and a radiocassette unit are included in the £9,999 (ex-VAT) price.
Moving up to the Cab Plus 4x4 model brings individual cloth trimmed seats, a better stereo and the usual electric goodies. Styled 15in steel wheels with a chrome grille and trim provide the visual changes.
The extended cab which gives the model its name contains a simple upholstered bench which could act as occasional accommodation for two agile adults (a pair of threepoint seat-belts is provided) but the cab extension is primarily intended to provide extra storage space.
and windows behind the driver. This matter is still subject to some clarification.
Impressions CM has driven the 4x4 version of the B2500 both laden and unladen. At first the even spread of torque from the unblown engine gives a feeling of a lack of power, but after a few miles its virtues begin to show. It should be classed as a plodder rather a sprinter, but you soon learn not bother with so many gearchanges.
Power output should be adequate for the working market, but there may be potential customers, particularly in the leisure sector, who would benefit from the extra power (and image) of a turbo-diesel.
On the unladen vehicle ride is lively but well controlled, and the addition of some payload smooths things out nicely. Body roll is kept well in check. The power-assisted recirculating ball and nut steering is perhaps on the light side for most tastes, but it's precise and unaffected by bump steer.
The cab is nicely finished in typical Japanese grey, with well-shaped front seats. Our biggest criticism is the usual umbrella-type handbrake. It's hard to reach and was reluctant to release fully at the first attempt.
Mazda UK hopes to sell 1,000 B2500s a year, with the 4x4 slightly out-selling the 4x2. It expects demand to be split 70/30 between the commercial and leisure sectors.
The Thai connection • Although all UK-market B-Series pickups will be built in Japan, extra production capacity is being created by a new plant in Thailand's Rayong province. Volume production will begin soon at AutoAlliance (Thailand) Company, which is a joint venture with Mazda and Ford owning 45% each, and the balance being locally owned.
Specifications of the Thaibuilt vehicles will be tailored to conditions in the local market, which is the largest for pickups outside the US. Price (ex-VAT) Max power Max torque Kerb weight GVW Payload (with 75kg 4x2 Pick Up £9,999 85hp (63kW) 171Nm (1261bft) 1,350kg 2,565kg driver) 4x4 Cab Plus Pick Up 212,953 (see text) 85hp (63kW) 171Nm (1261bft) 1,610kg 2,895kg 1 ,140kg 1,210kg