Driving Impressions
In its previous form, the Tribute drew mixed reactions, but its sporty nature earned high marks. Tributes are quieter than they used to be, and energetic V-6 throttle response is satisfying. Automatic-transmission shifts are barely noticeable, and downshifts for passing and merging come swiftly.
Steering with a somewhat light touch, the Tribute handles adeptly. Occasionally, a floating sensation makes the driver feel less than fully connected to the highway.
Ride comfort is pleasing, but wavy pavement produces substantial up-and-down motion. The Tribute exhibits no raucous behavior and copes handily with bumps and holes.
See also:
Interior
The rounded instruments integrate nicely into the T-shaped instrument panel.
The radio and center controls are tilted up to enhance functionality for the
driver. Blacked-out instrument faces have ...
Exterior & Styling
Compared with its competitors, the CX-9 is pretty sleek-looking for a large
crossover. Most crossovers are more streamlined than Ford's boxy Flex, but even
those cars have vestigial characteristic ...
Under the Hood
The 2.3-liter four-cylinder develops 156 hp while the 3.0-liter V-6 turns out
212 hp. Both engines can team with a five-speed manual transmission. A
five-speed automatic is available in models equ ...