2006 Mazda Tribute: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Mazda's compact SUV shares its car-type design with the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner, though only Escape and Mariner offer a gas/electric hybrid powertrain. Tribute comes in models labeled i and s. Both are available with front-wheel drive or with all-wheel drive that does not include low-range gearing. Standard on i models is a 153-hp 2.3-liter 4-cyl engine. Standard on s models is a 200-hp V6. The i version is available with manual or automatic transmission; s models have an automatic. Antilock brakes are standard on both. Optional for s models are front side airbags and curtain side airbags that cover both seating rows. Both models come with 16-inch alloy wheels, 60/40 split folding rear seatbacks, and a liftgate with opening glass. Available features include heated front seats, leather upholstery, sunroof, and DVD entertainment. Tribute's performance and accommodations mirror those of comparably equipped Escapes.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are the least costly and offer the best fuel economy. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. Nearly all are five-passenger vehicles.

Our Best Buys include Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Mazda Tribute, and Mercury Mariner. Our Recommended picks are Honda Element, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Liberty, Kia Sportage, and Subaru Forester.

Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Rav4 are new or significantly redesigned.