2001 Mazda Tribute: Road Test
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2001 Mazda Tribute ▼
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- MSRP: $17,210 -$23,430
- Invoice: $16,087 -$21,889
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Our road test for the 2001 Mazda Tribute includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Mazda Tribute from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Mazda Tribute, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Mazda Tribute help you decide if a 2001 Mazda Tribute is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| ES AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 3.5 |
No 4-door compact SUV has as much power as the V6 Tribute/Escape. Acceleration is satisfying at all speeds and the automatic transmission shifts smoothly. We have not tested a 4-cylinder model.
FUEL ECONOMY
| ES AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.8 |
Extended-use-test AWD V6 Tribute is averaging 19.5 mpg over its first 16,362 mi., including several long highway trips. Test V6 AWD Escapes averaged 18-19.2 mpg. We haven't had an opportunity to measure economy with the 4 cyl.
RIDE QUALITY
| ES AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 3.4 |
Very taut over bumps, but without float or wallow at highway speeds.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| ES AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 3.9 |
Steering is notably direct, and directional stability is impressive even in gusty crosswinds. Body leans and nose plows in fast sharp turns, in typical SUV fashion, but Tribute is otherwise balanced and confident in changes of direction.
QUIETNESS
| ES AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 3.2 |
Not quite car-quiet. No need to raise voices even at 75 mph, but wind roar is noticed, and tires whine on coarse surfaces.
CONTROLS
| ES AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.9 |
Climate and audio systems are high on the dashboard, within easy reach, and with large, simple controls. The automatic-transmission's column stalk is long and a little awkward, and there's no independent control for air recirculation or air conditioning.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| ES AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4.9 |
Generous head room even with intrusion from the sunroof housing. Those with long legs will have to move the passenger seat well back, but overall, the cabin feels spacious and airy.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| ES AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 3.5 |
Roomier and more comfortable than any other compact SUV. Seat is tall and supportive, leg and toe room exceed that in the average midsize SUV, and a nearly flat floor helps center-position comfort. Step-in is taller than most in class, but doorways are wide.
CARGO ROOM
| ES AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.8 |
Wide, tall cargo hold is the largest in this class. Rear seatback easily folds flat after headrests are removed. Standard separate opening liftgate window is a nice touch.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| ES AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 10 | 4.7 |
Substantial feel, roomy, comfortable, even fun to drive, Tribute and Escape are compact SUV all-stars. Priced in the mid-$20,000 range full equipped, they're also sensible alternatives to any number of midsize SUVs, especially truck-based wagons less efficient in their use of space and fuel.
Total Score
| ES AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 58 | 43.6 |
Total Score: 58
Scores for all Compact Sport-utility Vehicles














