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:
Winter Driving
- Carry emergency gear, including tire
chains, window scraper, flares, a small
shovel, jumper cables, and a small bag
of sand or salt.
Ask an Authorized Mazda Dealer to
perform the following prec ...
Interior
The CX-9 has front bucket seats, and the 60/40-split second-row seat has room
for three. The second row's backrest can recline or fold flat, and the seat can
also slide fore and aft to optimize le ...
Exterior
The CX-9 manages to avoid the chunkiness of many SUVs, in part because of its
angular nose and car-like honeycomb grille. The SUV's beltline rises as it heads
rearward, and the sides are free of c ...