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:
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 normally aspirated (non-turbo) 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is now
available on "i" Touring models, and it comes with a five-speed automatic
transmission and front-wheel drive. The ...
Concentrated
Mazda pursued a concentrated, taut form for the body as a virtue in itself, not to simply reduce the car's body size. This creative background was advantageous in efforts to achieve maximum dynamic ...


