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Overview:
Mazda adds an optional off-road package to its 2002 Mazda Truck,
which is sure to tempt enthusiasts to test its off- and on-road
prowess - from the dusty roads of Baja to the highways of the Midwest.
Following
a full freshening in 2001 - where the B-Series received its largest
horsepower upgrade ever - the freshening continues in 2002 with
even more features, including new name, color offerings and sporty
add-ons.
For
2002, the Mazda Truck gets a beefy, off-road look with the addition
of its Off Road package. This outdoor-lovers package includes 15-inch
"teardrop" alloy wheels with 31x10.50R15 BFGoodrich tires,
AM/FM/CD/MP3, bucket seats with full-length center console, auto-dimming
rearview mirror with compass and outside-temperature display, side
steps and tie-down rails on tops of bed sides.
All
Mazda Truck 4x4 models feature 16-inch wheels and an easy-to-use
four-wheel-drive system that gives them sure-footed traction on
slippery roads or trails. The newly offered SE-5 package includes
styled steel wheels, AM/FM/CD, air conditioning, cloth seats and
carpet floor and mats.
Ladder-frame
construction, with fully boxed frame rails from the front end to
the back of the cab, produces a rugged platform for the Mazda Truck,
which rides on an independent, double-wishbone front suspension
with a stabilizer bar and a live-axle rear suspension with leaf
springs.
All
Mazda Truck models come with four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS),
tachometer, sliding rear window, anti-theft immobilizer, spare tire
lock and dual de-powered air bags standard. Mazda also was the first
import brand truck to offer a key-operated passenger-side air bag
deactivation switch, which allows the driver to disconnect the air
bag when transporting children.
The
2002 Mazda Truck is available in seven colors on all models. Five
monochromatic colors are offered on Dual Sport and 4x4 models. Front
bumper caps and door handles are now color matched on all monochromatic
vehicles.
Exterior
Design:
Three trim levels are available for the 2002 Mazda Truck, including
Base, Dual Sport and 4x4 models. In addition, Mazda Truck buyers
have a choice of regular cab, two-door extended Cab Plus and four-door
Cab Plus 4.
The
Dual Sport model features monochromatic front and rear bumpers,
fender flares, front grille surround and lower front fascia, 15-inch
alloy wheels as well as a raised suspension, for the look and ground
clearance of a 4x4. The Dual Sport takes it name from a type of
motorcycle that is equally suited for on-road or off-road use.
Interior
Design:
There are no significant interior changes for 2002.
Powertrain:
Mazda continues to offer three engine choices with the 2002 Mazda
Truck. The top-of-the-line B4000 reigns as one of the most powerful
compact trucks on the market, thanks to its 207-horsepower, 4.0-liter
DOHC V6 engine. With 238 lb-ft of torque, a standard limited-slip
differential, Class III trailer hitch and the only available five-speed
automatic transmission in the import-brand compact class, the B4000
boasts a towing capacity of nearly 5,900 lbs - more than enough
to handle a ski boat or camper.
The
B3000 is powered by a 147-horsepower, 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine
and boasts 179 lb-ft of torque. Mazda's B2300, powered by a 135-horsepower,
2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, offers superb power to the entry-level
truck buyers.
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