2001 Mazda Tribute: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

This slightly upscale version of the Ford Escape is built by Ford on a new Mazda platform and uses Ford engines, though styling and suspension settings differ from Escape's. Like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, Tribute has unibody construction and independent suspension. It offers front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive without low-range gearing but with a dashboard switch that locks in a 50/50 front-rear torque split. The base DX model comes with a 4-cyl engine and manual transmission. LX and EX have a V6/automatic combination that's optional for DX. LX and ES are eligible for optional ABS and front side airbags. Tribute has 16-inch wheels and a rear liftgate with separate hatch window. LX and ES have 60/40 split-fold rear seatbacks, and ES has leather upholstery. Tribute's performance and accommodations mirror those of similarly equipped Escapes.

COMPETITION

Ignored in the past, compact SUVs are now some of the hottest-selling vehicles around. Though our Best Buy Honda CR-V doesn't offer true off-road ability and has milquetoast acceleration, it does mix ride comfort, cargo capacity, and versatility with all-weather traction.

Another car-based mini-SUV, the Subaru Forester, is our Recommended choice. Like the CR-V it doesn't have a low range for serious off-road use, it blends excellent on-road manners with SUV styling.

New this year are the Ford Escape and clone Mazda Tribute. We have been very impressed with early production models and may elevate these two to Best Buys after we get more seat time.