Mazda limited its lineup of B-Series trucks to a mere nine trim packages for 2004 (in previous years, up to 17 different versions had been available). But the basics of the line of compact trucks remained the same. The B-Series was available with either standard or extended cabs, in two-wheel- or four-wheel-drive versions, and primarly in the basic SE trim package.

A choice of three engines was available -- a 143-horsepower, 2.3-liter four-cylinder, which had been introduced three years earlier; a 154-horsepower 3.0-liter V6; and a 207-horsepower 4.0-liter V6, which also had been introduced three years earlier, in 2001.

The upgrades for the 2004 model year were relatively minor, and included a new steering wheel, updated airbags, and a redesigned dashboard.

Standard features included power brakes, power steering, dual airbags, anti-lock brakes, a center console, and an AM/FM audio system. In addition, air conditioning and a CD player were standard on most models.

Generally, drivers reported few or no problems with their Mazda B-Series trucks, resulting in happy drivers, for the most part. Even high-mileage vehicles were reported to need only occasional trips to the repair shop. Drivers also reported being very happy with Mazda's warranty program. Even gas mileage and power/performance were reported as positive points.