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 ...
Exterior Design
The new Mazda Tribute features exterior design details that give it an even
stronger sense of passenger-car refinement, while retaining its unmistakable SUV
ruggedness and new-generation sportines ...
Roominess, Comfort and Seat Variability
The dynamic exterior of the Mazda CX9 is not achieved by sacrificing SUV
comfort and seat flexibility. With one of the segment's longest wheelbases
(2,875 mm), the Mazda CX9 offers space for a max ...