2010 MAZDA TRIBUTE Review

Overview

The 2010 Mazda Tribute rounds is a four-door unibody-based crossover SUV that combines sports appeal and utility. For the 2010, the Tribute, available in i, s and HEV (Hybrid) trims, remains largely unchanged, adding a few interior comfort and convenience features such as ambient temperature gauges on all models, garage door opener and electrochromatic rear view mirror with rear view display on Grand Touring and HEV models and one-touch open/close moonroof on Touring HEV.

Powertrain And Performance

The 2010 Mazda Tribute i comes with a 2.5-liter iVCT 4-cylinder engine which produces 171 horsepower and 171 lb-ft torque and returns fuel economy of up to 22/28 mpg (city/highway). It is one of the most sophisticated too: light, efficient and refined. The Tribute s features a 240-horsepower 3.0-liter iVCT V6 with 223 lb-ft torque and returns fuel economy of up to 19/25 mpg (city/highway). The Tribute HEV offers superior environmental performance with its 2.5-liter gasoline engine. An easy-shifting five-speed manual gearbox with short, sporty gear changes, is standard on the Tribute i Sport. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard on s models (optional on i Sport model). The Tribute HEV is equipped with a smooth-shifting, electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (34/31 mpg city/highway). There is 31.4 cubic feet of carrying space behind the rear seat when it is up, and 67.2 cubic feet when the seatback is reclined.

Build And Styling

The entry-level Sport trim is well equipped and offers all the convenience, safety and utility for today's young SUV buyers. Automatic headlights, 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD audio system, ambient temperature gauge, remote keyless entry system and power mirrors, door locks and windows are standard. Cruise control is standard on vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions. A roof rack and auto-dimming rear view mirror complete with compass, or Homelink are also available. The mid-level Touring trim builds on the Sport and adds privacy glass, a standard roof rack, six-way power adjustable driver's seat with adjustable lumbar and height support, overhead console with dual storage bins and front seatback map pockets. Standard features include a seven-speaker audio system with six-disc CD changer and cargo area cover. The highest level of comfort and convenience is found in the fully loaded Grand Touring trim which comes standard with everything found on the Sport and Touring trims, plus Satellite radio and much more. Additional standard exterior features include heated side-view mirrors and a power-sliding moonroof. A more sophisticated and cozy interior features leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, garage door opener, electrochromatic mirror with rearview backup camera display and leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Safety Features

Safety has been given a high priority. The all-steel unibody construction of the 2010 Mazda Tribute is not only very stiff, but is also enormously strong. Roll stability control, dynamic stability control, traction control system, daytime running lights, tire pressure monitoring system, dual front air bags (SRS) - crash-zone & driver's seat position/passenger weight sensors, ISO FIX / LATCH floor child seat anchor, engine immobilizer anti-theft system, anti-theft perimeter alarm and illuminated keyless entry w/ panic button feature (key fob) are standard.