Like all Mazda vehicles, Mazda Tribute has always offered high levels of passive and active safety. The new facelift version enhances this with new disc brakes in the rear, replacing the rear brake drums of the former model, with discs at every wheel (303 mm front, 302 mm rear) standard on all vehicles. Brake durability has been enhanced as well by new and larger front calliper pistons, rotors and linings, which translates into much longer service intervals and lower overall maintenance costs. New as well is ABS with mechanical brake assist standard on all models. The brake assist mechanism helps maximize braking force during sudden braking situations and results in an improved brake response and stopping distances.

Passive safety has also been enhanced considerably. Front airbags are now standard, along with a new Occupant Classification System (OCS) that employs a gel-filled bladder in the passenger seat to measure the weight of the front passenger. If a pair of gloves or a map is on the seat, the OCS detects no weight and the passenger airbag is automatically switched off by the car's restraint control module (RCM). If more weight is detected, but less weight than a small adult, then the RCM keeps the airbag turned off and illuminates the "Passenger Airbag Off" lamp on the instrument panel. If a person who is heavier than a child sits in the seat, the RCM automatically activates the airbag and turns the lamp off. This system reliably prevents accidental deployment of the passenger seat airbag by removing the possibility of human error.

Standard on all new Mazda Tribute vehicles are curtain airbags, which replace the side airbags of the previous model. These deliver superior protection to front passengers and passengers in the outer seats in the rear in case of side-impact or roll-over. Other upgrades include a new three-point seatbelt and headrest for the rear centre position, and a reinforced seatback frame with non-detachable hinges and body-side latches to help prevent luggage from sliding into the passenger cabin during frontal impact.