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:
Highly rigid body
The basic development concept for the body shell of the all-new Mazda 3 was
to improve the overall balance of the body's rigidity and ensure it firmly
absorbs the reaction force of the dampers. To ...
The Drive
The Mazda5's 2.3-liter four-cylinder has to rev pretty high to get the car
moving quickly. Our car had the optional five-speed automatic transmission,
which adds $1,440. The five-speed manual migh ...
Ride & Handling
The Mazda5's steering response is designed to engage the driver. A turn of
the wheel delivers a quick change of direction, and there's a fair amount of
feedback. The suspension is on the firm side ...