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:
Reporting Safety Defects (Canada)
Canadian customers who wish to report a safety-related defect to Transport
Canada, Defect
Investigations and Recalls, may telephone the toll free hotline 1-800-333-0510,
or contact
Transport Can ...
Seat Belt Precautions
Seat belts help to decrease the possibility of severe injury during accidents
and sudden
stops. Mazda recommends that the driver and all passengers always wear seat
belts.
All of the seat belt r ...
Zoom-Zoom Handling
The Mazda CX9 body shell has a highly rigid structure in the lower body with
multiple cross members under the floor, a reinforced upper body area at the
C-pillar, a high-tensile steel B-pillar and ...


