2002 Mazda Tribute Review and Specs

Summary

What Edmunds.com says

With rugged good looks, a stout V6 engine, plenty of room for four adults and their luggage, and a sport-tuned suspension that works beautifully on pavement, the Mazda Tribute might be the ultimate small SUV.

Pros

Stout V6 power, rugged good looks, roomy cabin, attractive pricing.

Cons

Weak standard four-cylinder engine, no low-range transfer case.

What's New for 2002

After an extremely successful introductory year, Mazda's Tribute SUV receives only minor modifications for 2002. DX models get additional standard equipment in the form of alloy wheels, dark-tinted glass and remote keyless entry. After a short production run, however, the DX-V6 model will be discontinued. Midgrade LX models can be ordered with ABS as a stand-alone option (last year it was bundled with side airbags) and with a six-way power driver seat. Both LX and ES models get a new driver lumbar support feature. Side step tubes are a new option on all Tribs, and four new colors debut for 2002.

Consumer Ratings & Reviews

GREAT CAR!

Written by: michst2789 on 09/19/2009

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating


Performance:	10	Fun-to-Drive:	10	Build Quality:	9
Comfort:	9	Interior Design:	10	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	7	Exterior Design:	10

Vehicle

2002 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)

Review

This is my second Tribute, before this I had a 2003. This a great car that could last for a long time. Reliability is great, gas mileage is lacking, but that is expected with an SUV. Comfort is really good and it really gets up and goes with that V6 engine in it. GREAT CAR OVERALL!!

Favorite Features

Great V6 engine, Nice power moonroof, Power seats, GREAT sound system, great, comfortable leather seats. OVERALL a great car for a great value

Suggested Improvements

The only thing I would change would be the gas mileage but that would be something I couldn't control.

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Helloo Money Pit!

Written by: Threnners on 09/10/2009


Performance:	8	Fun-to-Drive:	8	Build Quality:	2
Comfort:	7	Interior Design:	9	Reliability:	4
Fuel Economy:	9	Exterior Design:	9

2002 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)

Sigh...In the past three years I have had to replace the dash odometer light, chrome hood piece, IAC Valve, Master brake cylinder, gearshift cable, the driver's side door handle, a fog light, and had to have work done on a misfiring cylinder. It creaks every time I make a left turn (bad sway bar links I'm told) and howls in the cold. The cloth is peeling off every interior door. One of the seats in the back won't go down (first time I tried!) I'm really let down because I really loved the Tribute (over the Escape) and REALLY wanted this car and to keep it 10 years but I don't think it's going to make it. When it does work though, it works very well.

Exterior styling, great gas mileage, the 6 disc cd changer & premium sound, V6 Engine, roomy cabin space

Decrease the road noise inside the cabin, bigger gas tank, better glue on your cloth!

Mine was rolled and I walked away!

Written by: Heather Jones on 12/05/2008


Performance:	9	Fun-to-Drive:	10	Build Quality:	10
Comfort:	9	Interior Design:	10	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	7	Exterior Design:	10

I loved my Mazda, I had it for 6 months, it was rolled in an accident and we all were in one piece! We walked away the Mazda wasn't drivable but it was also in one piece. They are very well made cars and I would definitely recommend one to someone I care about! I just need a new one!

I loved everything about this car! It looks cool and drives awesome!!

Gas mileage

6 Years Later

Written by: Carl on 09/13/2008


Performance:	6	Fun-to-Drive:	6	Build Quality:	6
Comfort:	6	Interior Design:	6	Reliability:	5
Fuel Economy:	6	Exterior Design:	7

Mazda Navajo Owner for 10 years - best vehicle ever; purchased Tribute and was satisfied with vehicle until the warranty ran out. Immediately thereafter, vehicle falling apart. Computer failed and stranded me 300 miles from home; cruise control not working, instrument panel not working,airbag sensor faulty, many electrical problems; power door locks failed and replaced; power window switches failed/replaced; fluid leaks that mechanics cannot locate, brake dust is horrible on wheels. Every week a new problem develops on this vehicle. Very disappointed -- the Mazda Tribute fails in comparison to my previous Navajo which went 150,000 miles no problems. The Tribute fell apart at 70,000 miles.

Moonroof, cd player, folding back seat, carries a lot of cargo, exterior style,

Mazda Tribute is really a Ford Escape. Improve workmanship and mechanical reliability so the vehicle is more dependable. Improve brake system, on board computer, sensor modules, upgrade power lock and window parts.

Love it, will purchase another

Written by: erb1 on 09/02/2008


Performance:	9	Fun-to-Drive:	10	Build Quality:	10
Comfort:	9	Interior Design:	6	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	7	Exterior Design:	10

I purchased it new, and my vehicle has 170,000 miles on it. I just changed the spark plugs last week. I have driven 700 miles a week for 3.5 years with no problems. I have replaced the brakes once, three years ago. It's starting to get "squeaky" on turns, so I will replace shocks and struts early next year when I get new tires. There have been a few recalls, and my only complaint is that Mazda dealers are few and far between in this area. Also, some of the parts inside look cheap, like the inside door handles are plastic, covered in a metal looking tape stuff. But hey, they work. Will be driving it until it croaks, and will probably buy a second one next year.

It does drive well, not bouncy like some other trucks.

The interior is kinda loud on the highways.

2002 Mazda Tribute Consumer Ratings & Reviews