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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2008 Mazda Tribute

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2011 Mazda Tribute

Overview

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2008 Mazda Tribute Review

By KBB.com Editors

Aimed at folks shopping for a crossover utility vehicle, but one with perhaps a flavor of a sport utility vehicle, the Mazda Tribute compact crossover has returned after a one-model-year hiatus, smartly restyled inside and out and bristling with an enhanced roster of standard and optional features. As in the past, the Tribute continues to share its unit-body design, powertrains and fully-independent suspension with its corporate cousins the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner. To help ensure broad appeal, the 2008 Tribute offers seating for five, both four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines, front or all-wheel drive and three different trim levels. The 350 Tribute Hybrids to be made available in California only will be differentiated by an available navigation system, the unavailability of stability control and driving dynamics that are effectively identical to the Escape and Mariner hybrids.

You'll Like This Car If...

Drivers who prefer car-like ride and handling qualities but want a vehicle with bolder, truck-like visual traits could well find the Tribute more appealing than competitors like the Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue or Saturn Vue.

You May Not Like This Car If...

Riding on the same platform on which it was introduced for the 2001 model year, the Mazda Tribute doesn't match the levels of overall refinement offered by so many of its fresher competitors.

What's Significant About This Car?

While far short of a full generational makeover, Mazda gave the 2008 Tribute a comprehensive visual revamping that left it with a more contemporary flavor. Effectively complementing the new look are significant feature upgrades, handling refinements and class-leading safety systems, plus a low-volume, California-only Hybrid variant.

Driving the Tribute

Driving Impressions Like many of its compact peers, the Tribute is easy to drive and easy to live with on a daily basis. While the suspension never feels overly soft or "floaty,"...

spirited cornering does elicit noticeable, but not unexpected or extreme, body lean. However, the standard Roll Stability Control system does an exemplary job of maintaining confidence, even on twisty roads. Those who place a premium on fuel economy may find the four-cylinder engine sufficiently energetic, but it gets a bit stressed when matched with the heavier all-wheel drive system. Anyone who plans major towing or toting on a regular basis in any Tribute would be better served by the more powerful V6. Those desiring an extra measure of traction should definitely consider the optional Active Torque Control Coupling (ATTC) all-wheel drive. This slick computer-commanded system can transfer up to 50 percent of the available power to the rear wheels almost instantly, as well as shift it left-to-right to optimize overall traction.

Favorite Features

Superb central storage
In addition to its lesser storage areas, the Tribute has a huge center console bin that can hold a standard-size laptop computer and lots of smaller accessory items.

Roll Stability Control
This outstanding safety standard helps prevent a potential rollover from occurring by automatically using selective applications of the throttle and anti-lock brakes.

2008 Mazda Tribute Details

Interior

The Tribute's revamped cabin is now even quieter and pairs contrasting light and dark interior trim panels on all models. Gauges are legible, stow-space generous and key controls well-placed and logically arrayed, but bright sun conditions tend to create annoying reflections on the glossy Piano Black accent bits and frequently overpower the already marginal clock-and-radio digital display readout. Adults can fit comfortably in both front and rear quarters, while the Tribute's 60/40-split rear bench seat easily folds and tumbles to create a flat floor that expands its cargo bay from 29.2 to 66.3 cubic feet.

Exterior

The new Tribute puts classic SUV sheetmetal cues into a contemporary context that effectively mixes rugged with refined. Squared-off primary lines resolve into nicely rounded edges while a prominent glass area gives the cabin an open, airy feel. The Tribute's large, pentagonal grille imparts a distinctive Mazda flavor to the front fascia and its crisp shoulder ridge is effectively reinforced by large fender flares that house not-so-large 16-inch alloy wheels wrapped with P235/70R16 all-season tires. At the rear, a one-piece hatch with a bumper-level cutout simplifies loading and incorporates a pop-up glass element that permits carrying longer items, from ladders to surfboards.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

Even the entry-level Tribute Sport models offer an excellent set of features, including numerous power assists, keyless remote entry, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD sound, cruise control (with automatic transmission) and alloy wheels.
The Touring trim level adds a power driver's seat, privacy glass and roof rack, while the primo Grand Touring variant includes leather upholstery, power moonroof and a premium audio with a six-disc CD changer. All Tributes have anti-lock disc/drum brakes and traction/stability control plus a sophisticated Roll Stability Control system (except the Hybrid). There are now six airbags, with the dual front units now supplemented by front-side and side-curtain bags.

Optional Equipment

Save for engine/drivetrain choice and the specific feature enhancements that constitute each of the three trim levels, Tribute options are relatively few. Tribute Sport buyers can opt for roof rails that are standard on the Touring and Grand Touring, while all offer a trailer hitch, side steps and a rear spoiler. The Tribute Hybrid Grand Touring also offers an optional DVD-based navigation system.

Under the Hood

Gasoline-powered Tributes are fitted with either a Mazda-designed 2.3-liter 153-horsepower four-cylinder engine or a 3.0-liter 200-horsepower Ford Duratec V6. Only the front-drive, four-cylinder base Tribute Sport in the "i" trim level offers the choice of a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. All others come standard with the automatic. Tributes with the four-cylinder engine have a 1,500-pound maximum towing capacity, while Tributes with the V6 can pull a 3,500-pound trailer. Official EPA numbers give the four-cylinder engine a consistent two-miles-per gallon edge over its V6 counterpart in all configurations. The California-only Tribute Hybrid uses Toyota-sourced technology and pairs a 2.3-liter, 133-horsepower in-line four-cylinder engine with a 94-horsepower electric motor and a four-speed automatic. It has a clear advantage in overall fuel economy, but is rated for trailers of no more than 1,000 pounds.

2.3-liter In-line 4
153 horsepower @ 5800 rpm
152 lb-ft of torque @ 4250 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy 22/28 (FWD, manual), 20/26 (FWD, automatic), 19/24 (AWD automatic)

3.0-liter V6
200 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
193 lb-ft of torque @ 4850 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy 18/24 (FWD, automatic), 17/22 (AWD, automatic)

2.3-liter In-line 4 with 70-kilowatt Permanent Magnetic Synchronous Electric Motor
133 horsepower @6000 rpm/94 horsepower @ 5000 rpm (203 net horsepower)
124 lb-ft of torque @ 4250 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy 34/30 (FWD, automatic), 29/27 (AWD, automatic)

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2008 Mazda Tribute Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

7.9

Out of 10

Based on 99 Ratings for the 2008 - 2011 models.

Review this car

Value

8.3/10

Quality

8.1/10
Reliability

8.6/10

Performance

8.1/10
Comfort

8.2/10

Styling

8.4/10

Good cheap alternative SUV

By spark on Thursday, February 21, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 20,000

10 7.0

overall rating 7 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 7/10
Value: Not Rated
Reliability: 8/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 7/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 7/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"Being the last year of the Tribute we got lucky. There is ample room no matter where you sit although the back seats are not the most comfortable. But for what we got it for I can't really complain. The overall fuel economy is just as good as our car from before with just about under 30 mpg combined which is great for a little suv. The interior controls are easy to use, but the only downside is if you wanted to replace the radio there really isn't a way that you can. The HVAC controls are integrated. The build quality is also good, as there aren't any rattles or noise. The stock muffler isn't the quietest on the outside but can't be heard on the inside at all. There are other suv's out there, but none as cheap as this."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Best Vehicle

By Pancho (NM) on Thursday, August 16, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 73,500

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Have been Mazda owner since 1982 and wouldn't have it any other way very reliable SUV, great on gas for a 4cylinder, only problem they don't have many in New Mexico, why? can't answer that but would like to see the new model."

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very good affordable small SUV

By sara (MN) on Thursday, April 05, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 71,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 7/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 7/10

Pros: "good price , about $22,000-$23,00 including taxes"

Cons: "would like softer seats for long distance"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I have the 6 cyl 3.0 liter with tow package and I tow a boat (1700 pounds) from Mpls to Canada several times a year. Tows great. 4x4 kicks in when needed and is very nice to have in winters-very effective. I did not get the "fancy" interior. Seats are OK for comfort. Storage space is really good (large hiding spot for valuables). Driving: handles well around corners but not like a car, acceleration is OK. No issues but it's no sports car. Seats fold down nicely in back for lots of cargo room. Very happy over all."

7 people out of 7 found this review helpful

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I enjoy this vehicle

By Gdexter on Friday, December 09, 2011

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 56,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Cost of ownership has been low. Gas and oil changes. Has never seen the repair shop in 56,000 miles. Average mpg has been 24.61 mpg."

7 people out of 7 found this review helpful

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Good suv

By Joy (MA) on Tuesday, November 29, 2011

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 60,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "Great gas saver.."

Cons: "Not enough leg room"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have this suv for about a year now and I love it. The winter of 2010 was brutal and this car didn't let me down..it's a reliable vehicle for me and my 2 kids.. I only have a 4 cylinder but it's great in gas..the only downfall for me is not enough leg room for my 2 year behind the drivers seat. And with two car seats makes it only a 4 passenger seat suv."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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this my second one--- Ilove every feature1

By harvey lawrence (KY) on Wednesday, November 16, 2011

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 42,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "price is right comfort there"

Cons: "no needs"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I first owned a 2005 and drove it 80,000 four years ago i traded for a 2008 and just loved them both.have traveled across the county twice and found the long distance driving just as easy each time. would recommend the car over all including the escape."

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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See all 99 reviews