For 2005, Mazda upgraded its higher-end Dual Sport and SE B-Series trucks by adding such standard features as power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, cruise control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, all of which were once optional. Other than that, Mazda made no major changes to its line of popular compact trucks, except for the addition of a few new colors.

The B-Series trucks were available in both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive versions. The two-wheel-drive trucks came with two engine options -- a 143-horsepower 2.3-liter four-cylinder or a 154-horsepower 3.0-liter V6, with either a standard or an extended cab. The four-wheel-drive models were equipped with a 207-horsepower 4.0-liter V6, and came with either a standard or extended cab. All extended (or Cab Plus) models came with four doors.

The base B-Series trucks with the 2.3-liter engine came with such features as four-wheel anti-lock brakes, power steering, dual airbags, and intermittent windshield wipers. Models with the 3.0-liter engine added air conditioning and a CD player, among other features.

Generally, drivers agreed that for a light truck, the B-Series was reliable, economical, and fun to drive. Most noted that it couldn't compete with more heavyweight trucks, but the B-Series was considered a good value that stood up well to the rigors of daily life.