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:
Improved Cabin Quietness
For improved cabin quietness on both body styles, engineers adopted stiffer
door modules for less vibration at the side of the car, reduced the level of
wheel resonance and used additional soundin ...
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 ...
Convertible Top (Power Retractable Hardtop)
The power retractable hardtop opens/closes electrically by operating switches
in the
vehicle. When opening/closing the hardtop, the hardtop, deck and window glass
operate
together. The hardtop ...