Mazda B2500 Reviews

Add a turbo diesel engine and 4WD and you have probably the ultimate workmate that will carry you and all your stuff to the ends of the earth – well almost.The current model has been around for donkey's ages with progressive upgrades keeping it fresh. It's available in numerous body configurations including a handy Freestyle body with rear hinged "suicide" doors giving access to the rear "emergency" fold down seats.Mazda recently introduced drive away pricing for the B-Series, this one, the DX Freestyle diesel manual goes for a not insignificant $38,935. But hey, it all comes off the tax.Intercooled four cylinder diesel has plenty of performance, particularly strong mid-range, good on fuel.First gear is way, way low and runs out of puff after just a squirt from a standstill. Low range is lower again.Cruises happily at the speed limit, doesn't button off uphill even with a load on board.  Engine is relatively smooth but makes a din – turn the (impressive) radio up.DX misses out on electric mirrors, remote central locking, has no air bags – unforgivable in a vehicle at this price.Ride is firm, bucks around on rough road unladen. Settles down with a few hundred kilos on board.Tray is decent size even with the "four" door body.Off road ability enhanced with chunky tread tyres, low range 4WD, has manual free wheeling hubs – just like the old days.Plenty of ground clearance, limited slip rear diff. This thing goes anywhere – with a load and potentially four aboard.Hate the under dash, pull out hand brake. Optional ute tray mat should be standard ute liner.Turning circle is smaller than earlier models, now acceptable.Like warranty choice, 2/unlimited or 3/100,000km. You choose.Cabin is utilitarian, plenty of hard plastic, bit of style around instruments, aircon works a treat.Not convinced about Freestyle doors, bit of a pain to use, front has to be open etc.