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:

    Reporting Safety Defects (U.S.A.)
    If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in ...

    Advanced Keys
    The advanced keyless functions (advanced keyless entry and start system) enables the following operations while the advanced key is being carried. - Locking/unlocking the doors, and opening the tr ...

    Efforts to promote vehicle recycling
    Mazda has achieved recyclability ratios of over 90 percent. Beginning in 2005, Mazda also became the first in the auto industry to fully implement 'bumper-to-bumper recycling' that recycles materi ...