2002 Mazda Tribute: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Interior revisions keynote 2002 changes to this slightly upscale version of the Ford Escape. Tribute shares its platform and Ford engines with Escape, but has different styling and suspension settings. Like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, Tribute has unibody construction and independent suspension. Sixteen-inch wheels and a rear liftgate with separate hatch window are standard. Tribute offers front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive that lacks low-range gearing but has a dashboard switch that locks in a 50/50 front-rear torque split. The base DX model has a 4-cyl engine with manual transmission. LX and ES models have a V6/automatic combination. LX and ES can get optional ABS and front side airbags and come with 60/40 split-fold rear seatbacks; ES also has leather upholstery. In addition to revised front seats, the '02 interior changes include reshaped steering-column transmission and wiper levers intended to improve access to dashboard controls. LX and ES models also gain steering-wheel audio controls.

COMPETITION

Ignored in the past, compact SUVs are now some of the hottest-selling vehicles around. Though our Best Buys, the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Mazda Tribute don't offer true off-road ability, they do mix ride comfort, cargo capacity, and versatility with all-weather traction. The V6 Tribute/Escape offers more power, comfort, and space than any in its class.

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, but it blends excellent on-road manners with SUV styling.