2001-2006 Mazda Tribute: Road Test

Tribute's performance and accommodations mirror those of similarly equipped Escapes. No four-door compact SUV has as much power as a V6 Tribute. Therefore, V6 models are among the quickest compact SUVs, taking just 8.9 seconds to accelerate to 60 mph. More important, you get ample power for stress-free passing and merging, though some drivers might like more muscle on long upgrades. Not only is acceleration satisfying, but the automatic transmission shifts smoothly. An extended-use AWD V6 Tribute averaged 19.5 mpg, including some long highway trips. Regular fuel is used by both engines. Tributes and Escapes have different suspension tuning, but both feel markedly taut, without wallow or float over dips and swells at highway speeds. Some sharp bumps can register abruptly, however. Steering and handling beat most rivals. Directional stability is impressive, even in gusty crosswinds. In fast cornering, balance and grip are quite good. As in most SUVs, the body leans and the nose plows in quick, sharp turns. Otherwise, the Tribute is balanced and confident in directional changes. The Tribute has firmer steering than an Escape, but both are exceptionally direct. Brakes have good stopping power, but some drivers might find nosedive excessive in hard stops. Noise levels are generally acceptable, but wind noise is prominent at speed and the tires whine on coarse pavement. Instruments and controls are legible and generally well-placed. Climate and audio controls are high, within easy reach. Early automatic-transmission shift levers interfered with the driver's reach to the radio. The Ford-designed climate system does not allow independent control of air recirculation or air conditioning. Tribute interiors feel slightly upscale, compared to the Escape's. Both are solid, with attractive materials. Seats are firm and supportive. Taller riders might want more front head room in sunroof-equipped models, but clearance is otherwise generous. The airy, comfortable cabin belies the compact SUV's exterior dimensions. Driver views are unimpeded to sides and rear. Not only is the Tribute more comfortable in back than any other compacts, it offers more rear knee and foot room than most midsize SUVs. The rear bench is tall and well-contoured, even at the inboard position. The floor is nearly flat, and the cabin is wide enough for three-adult comfort on short trips. Doorways are wide but step-in is higher than most compact SUVs. Cargo room is generous. Rear seatbacks fold flat, once the headrests are removed and the seat bottoms tilted forward. The standard separate-opening rear glass is an added convenience.

Value for the Money
Solid, substantial feeling, roomy, comfortable, and even fun to drive, the Tribute and its Escape cousin rank as compact SUV all-stars. They are also eminently sensible alternatives to any number of midsize SUVs, especially truck-based wagons, which are less efficient in their use of space and fuel. Stay away from troublesome 4-cylinder models.