Strengths

Comfortable interior; ample storage space; adequate power with good fuel efficiency

 

Changes

For 2009, the Mazda Tribute, gets larger 4 and 6-cylinder engines paired with a new 6-speed automatic transmission providing more power with increased fuel economy. New hybrid gas/electric models are available to California residents.

 

Value

The 2009 Mazda Tribute mixes a boxy, more traditional SUV shape with a carlike feel behind the wheel. And the new amped up engines combined with the new 6-speed transmission offer venerable power while topping the class in efficiency.

 

Overview

The Mazda Tribute is available in two models- the "i" and "s", and three trim levels- Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. The "i" models get a 171-horsepower, 2.5L 4-cylinder matched with a 5-speed manual transmission or 6-speed automatic. The "s" models get a 240-horsepower, 3.0L V6 with 6-speed automatic. The 4-cylinder automatic has an EPA rating of 20 mpg city and 28 hwy while the 6-cylinder achieves 18 mpg city and 26 hwy. For buyers in the state of California, the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine is now available paired with an electric motor and battery in a new hybrid model. This combination is capable of 34 mpg on the highway and an amazing 31 mpg city.

Front-wheel-drive is standard across the line, but there is an available active torque-coupling 4-wheel drive system available with automatic transmission. It has the ability to react quickly, sending more power to the wheels that have more traction to avoid wheel slip. The system works especially well in low-traction road conditions.

The Tribute's interior has seating for five adults, and a center-console area that is large enough to store a laptop. With the 60/40-split back seat folded forward, the 29.2 cubic feet of cargo space can be expanded to 66.3 for large cargo.

Front side air bags and side-curtain air bags are standard, as are dynamic stability control, and roll stability control. The braking system employs discs in front and drums in back and a 4-channel anti-lock system with electronic brakeforce distribution is standard across the line. The fully independent coil-spring suspension with rack-and-pinion steering helps provide good handling and roadholding, with enough durability and softness for unpaved roads

Standard features on the base Sport include 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, air conditioning, remote keyless entry, power accessories, re-designed driver's seat with adjustable lumbar and height support and cruise control on automatic vehicles. The Touring model adds a number of convenience features, including a roof rack, privacy glass, power driver's seat, and overhead console. At the top of the line, the Grand Touring model adds heated side mirrors, a power moonroof, leather seats (heated in front), a retractable cargo cover, and a seven-speaker sound system with 6-disc changer.