At first glance, the Mazda Tribute may look like just another "Cute SUV." But look a little closer and you will find a spirited, yet fuel-efficient, 153-hp 2.3 L. DOHC 16-valve MZR 4-cylinder engine. A smooth-shifting 4-speed automatic transmission, precise power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, plus 4-wheel independent suspension.
Standard safety features and systems look like a checklist from NASA just before a shuttle launch. Roll stability control, front side-impact air bags, and side-impact air curtains with roll over protection are just a few of the dozen or more major safety features that Mazda thinks are so important they are standard features on all three Tribute lines.
Tribute's sleek profile and new age styling are impressive, but the most appealing features to me were located in the remarkably constructed and configured cabin. The interior was beautiful and breathtaking. Red-on-white gauges with ice blue nighttime illumination, front map lights and cargo area lights allow you to find items such as dropped keys or pens in the cab, as well as see clearly and focus on gauges and knobs and levers that control power windows, climate controls, the radio, and the navigation system.
Dual vanity mirrors and covers, remote keyless illuminated entry system, and cruise control with steering mounted controls are also features. Personally, I don't like any kind of controls on the steering wheel. I keep hitting or moving them unintentionally. I am just glad the seat controls aren't on the steering column because I would spend most of my time driving lying on my back.
A power moon roof, standard on the Grand Touring model, provides both slide and tilt features for an expansive view and open-air exhilaration. Whether touring through a city skyline or a country canopy of sky-filled stars, you are adding unforgettable experiences and enjoying a comfort level unknown before. Dual over-head storage bins allow for easy access to books, maps, or other items that could add further enrichment to your drive.
The front center floor console is a multitasking marvel, with four cup holders and a covered storage compartment, that is large enough to hold a laptop, plus removable bins. It is an ideal place to store your favorite MP3 player.
The audio package consists of a 100-watt AM/FM/CD stereo with 4 speakers, 190-watt AM/FM in-dash 6 disc CD changer, with 7 speakers and DSP. There is an auxiliary-audio input jack and Sirius Satellite Radio with ready head unit.
The Tribute comes in eight trim colors, including Red Fire Metallic and Monterey Gray. Each trim has two fabric choices, cloth or leather, and two-tone colors like charcoal/beige or graystone.
The Tribute sets up high and stout. It has expansive energy and a flavoring all its own. The week I drove the Tribute I turned to channel 104 on the Sirius dial and listened to traditional Christmas music. The weather was getting bad, with icy rain and powerful northerly winds. But my Tribute held fast and safe against the storm. The cabin was peaceful and aglow with warmth of security against the bitterly cold weather. But I didn't mind. I was filled with the Christmas spirit. And as I listened to Jingle Bells and other traditional songs I couldn't help but marvel at my good luck in driving such a grand car.
The starting price for the Mazda Tribute is $19-$26,000, and mileage is 17-22 mpg in town and 22-28 on the highway.
Durhl Caussey is an international car writer and a member of the Texas Auto Writers Association. He may be reached at this paper or dcaussey@sbcglobal.net
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