Used 2003 Mazda Tribute Consumer Reviews
Used Tribute for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
What a cool SUV
E. Johnston, 08/26/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After 1 year of owning and driving this 'ute, I still think it is one of the best 'utes you can buy for the money. It is as roomy as a full-size SUV inside (I think because they don't waste space with a 3rd row -- which no one can use or even fit into). It drives better than most sedans. The AWD really works, whether offroading (done it) or driving up an icy road to ski at 13,000' (done it).
Mazda Tribute
Mazda buyer, 08/25/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is and excellent car and even though it looks small, it is big on the inside.
2003 Mazda Tribute for sale near you
3 of 16 listings
- LX-V6 4dr SUVMSRP: $2,400659 mi away
- LX-V6 4dr SUVMSRP: $2,950825 mi away
- LX-V6 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,495860 mi away
See all 16 listings
I love my Tribute
Barb604, 02/26/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When they say zoom zoom zoom, they were talking about my car.
Mazda Tribute LX 2x4
Edskie, 09/06/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Mazda Tribute is very fun to drive SUV, it handles more like a sports car then a truck and the engine is powerfull and refined. The styling has a more fun, sporty look to it compared to its Ford Escape counterpart, which by the way is everything the Mazada is except for more truck like styling.
I Love This SUV
vjneighbors, 09/06/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car! I was drawn to it by the more stylish body lines than other SUV's, but am really happy with the performance and comfort. This is a beautiful, but functional vehicle. It offers a very large cargo area, and it is very easy to unload groceries, equipment, etc. from the rear. Gas mileage isn't the greatest, but the fun of owning and driving this car more than makes up for that. The fold-down seats are really convenient and easy to use.
Loaded & Love It!
ptbuckingham, 10/26/2002
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just purchased my first SUV after much research! Compared to the Ford Escape, the Tribute has many more interior features, and looks much sleeker & sportier. The "cold pkg" & "luxury pkg" are a GREAT VALUE! To get heated seats with the Ford Escape, you have to purchase the "limited" model which is very expensive. Mazda Tribute also has a better warranty 3yr/50 bumper to bumper compared to Escapes's 3 yr/36. I paid just 2% over dealer invoice for a 2003! No body roll & rides like a dream!
My First SUV
MWi1068196, 07/09/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute DX 4WD 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My experience with my 2003 Tribute ES 2WD has been outstanding by most accounts. Previously owning a 2002 Millenia, I was familiar and comfortable with the Mazda lineup. After much research, I decided to purchase the Tribute. I'm very satisfied with my decision. It's a great vehicle for me in all areas and I love the way it handles, drives, and rides. The build quality is great, along with the improved warranty over the 2002 models. My Tribute has all the bells and whistles less the 4WD option, but that wasn't necessary for me. Plenty of room, fun to drive, excellent value for the money. I'll definitely purchase another one down the road.
Gret SUV
Birdman333, 09/06/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Looked at over 10 different styles and makes from autos to SUV's. We settled on the Tribute because we were current Mazda owners of a 626 for 16 years and never had a major thig go wrong.
Scott's Tribute
Scott.R, 08/05/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is such a fun suv to drive!! It is so sporty and it looks cool. I really enjoy all the features. the horsepower is great. My kids really enjoy the dvd system. This suv is a real pleasure.
Mazda Tribute ES
WBL68, 01/17/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A fun machine to drive. Very smooth and speedy performance. Smooth shifting auto transmission. Comfortable seating. Excellent visibility and control knob placements, interior space unimpeded by a floor console shifter.
My Red Mazda
bytespiece, 08/05/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I recently purchased my Mazda Tribute and I just love it. This is the first time I have purchased an SUV and I'm glad I did. It handles great and I have no fear of driving it (media hype had me a little leery of purchasing an SUV). And, it drives so much better than my last car. I can't comment too much on the gas mileage as I haven't had it long enough, but the short time I have had it the gas mileage has been about 22 mpg in the city. Can you tell I really love my Mazda!
So far, so good
Elmo60, 10/24/2002
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've driven Mazdas for years. They tend to be the same quality as other "Japanese" makes and typically much cheaper. I had debated an SUV for some time but just didn't want to pay 35-40K for a truck. I drove the Tribute and got hooked. I absolutely love the thing. I have a ton of room, It's fun to drive, peppy, etc. I read the reviews of other owners and feel bad for them. I expect it will happen to me as well and might lower my current very high opinion of my Tribute. But,til then, zoom-zoom.
I would buy another!
krysnik, 08/06/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I drove several SUV's before deciding on the Tribute. I chose it over the Escape because of the exterior styling was more pleasing to the eye. This is the only car I have ever had that I would buy another one of. Trust me I am a very picky person!
Nice Compact SUV, drives great
MZCMDR, 01/30/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very nice ride and suspenion. 4WD is nice. Great visibilty. I like it but there are a few annoying issues that need Human Engineering refinements.
A Satisfied Owner
MikkiB, 09/06/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Owning this vehicle has been a really good experience. It has a great turning radius and it drives like a car not a truck.
Hunter Family
Greg Hunter SR., 08/05/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This SUV is down right fun to drive,Enjoy outstanding highway gas mileage,Handles very well in wet wheather,
Great Car Overall.
Dru, 09/15/2002
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Got the car for under 24k drive out fully loaded. The drive is very comfortable especially for long distances and heavy traffic scenarios. The power is great off the line for a big car but there could be a little more for the highway. Cargo space is great and easy to fold down the seats in no time.
2003 Mazda Tribute
nox, 07/13/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great smaller SUV. Unbelievably quiet and comfortable. It Could use more power but 95% of the time is more than adequate. It is equipped with an over overdrive that allows it to tow without much effort. Does have a bit of a truck ride probably because of the short wheel base (I was driving a Cadillac Seville before). Compact exterior dimensions make it fir in the garage with room to spare.
Great but for the mileage
Nibby, 08/06/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Exceeded expectations in quality and value compared to other brands. Two disapointments. No power door lock switch on front passenger door and poor mileage for V6. 22 will never be achieved but still hoping for 17+ in town. Great 6CD changer and power to spare. Very good ride given relatively short wheel base. Two-way rear door/window opening very convenient. Great value for the $.
better than my 01
Bucky C, 08/22/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
this is my second.Went in for service (sway bar links)and while it was being fixed ended up with a new one. Had a DX V8 4x4 now have the loaded ES 4x4.leather moonroof the works. two years made a nice improvement,plus a better warrantee,was looking into an Explorer but was too pricy.Thought Id give the Tribute one more try.The 01 had 22,000 miles when traded.
tribute
Don Lewis, 02/24/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It looks fantastic. Has many features. Great power.
new es-v6 merlot/w beige interior
bmartyntx, 08/26/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
we purchased this vehicle because we wanted a small suv that can hold 5 people comfortably i am 6-3 and i looked at all the suv's out there pilot,crv,toyota full line,nissan,gmc,chevy,etc. and out of all of them i looked at i needed something that would fit and i found the ford escape does that but the tribute is actually a ford escape but with a nicer more rounded look and i feel has a better package w/ standard anti-lock brakes and is actually a little less than escape. also the warranty is better and also has roadside assist. w free loaner car. coupled with 0% financing it was very hard to find anything else even close.
So far so good
JoeSLV, 07/20/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have under 1K miles on it but so far I have been very impressed. After switching from a Jeep GCL V8, I was concerned about the loss of power. This car has enough power for me. The column shifter isn't a big problem at all. And I have read complaints about it being noisy at high speeds. I haven't encountered that at all. The car handles pretty well and have no problem passing. After a couple thousand miles, I will give another review, but so far, so good!
great buy,fundrive
kimbar, 07/19/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After searching for the perfect suv, affordable, quality interior, pleasing to they eye, handles like a car, with the space of a truck, I was very pleased to find this vehicle. My search had ended with the 2003 Mazda Tribute.
I Love Tribute
Jafar, 11/19/2002
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Excellent Performance & Design ,Reliability
Mazda love!!
Kathy Austin, 07/23/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I first saw the Tribute on the road. Had to check one out. I am in love with mine. Fell asleep at wheel one day and went into gravel. I feel like I should have flipped, but my Tribute kept me upright after a slight struggle. That is when I knew this was the SUV for me. Hope to enjoy it for many years to come. Riding in style!!
Mighty Fine SUV
Zumb, 07/22/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The ES has a luxurious interior with a lot of extras like reclining back seats, high padded arm rest between the front seats, and all the extras you expect from a higher level vehicle. It is a lot roomier inside than you would think a "small SUV" would be. It is surprisingly quiet inside even on rough surfaces. The engine has steady power and pick up, the automatic transmission shifting is smooth and it handles well on turns. It offers a smooth ride on a variety of surfaces. The exterior appearance is not boxy but also not like it is trying to be a van. It is a nice mid-level vehicle with an aesthetic but not flashy appearance.
Perfect Family Vehicle
Bigkay, 08/26/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I truly enjoy my new Tribute. It is very comfortable and so much fun to drive. I have 2 children and feel completely safe having them in the car with me. I thought I would miss my 1998 MPV when I traded it in, but I love this vehicle, I highly recommend to anyone looking for a reliable SUV.
Tribute
lissa, 02/25/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I really love my Mazda Tribute, it drives well and has lots of room inside. The wind noise is pretty bad on the interstate.
Great little suv
UPSman63, 09/06/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Really have enjoyed this Mazda Tribute..bought in Oct.2001...very peppy engine,stylish,handles like a sports car,seats 4 comfortably,plenty of room for luggage in back and on roof rack..only complaint is I wish it could carry more people..at least sit 6 instead of 5 but that is the only complaint I have..not had any trouble with this vehicle at all! A+++++!
My New ZOOM ZOOM MOBILE
Jus4tday, 10/29/2002
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Overall, I love the Tribute. I have really enjoyed driving it and sitting up high with the 16 alloys wheels. It's my first SUV and I love it! ZOOM ZOOM!
Enjoying This SUV
Lespoir, 09/06/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I traded in my 2001 Honda Accord (whick was a wonderful car) for the Tribute as I needed the capacity of a SUV. So far all is good with this vehicle. The only exception is the gas mileage. I get barely 18 miles to the gallon. By the way you did not list 6Cyl 4Wheel Drive when driver wants to put vehicle into 4 wheel drive, otherwise it is front wheel drive.
It's great...but light
littlepriest, 06/19/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Having bought my tribute three months ago and 5,000 miles ago I so far only have one complaint. It is so much lighter than my 96' Jeep Grand Cherokee...I have had problems with zoom zooming too fast around turns and sliding. Road noise is not too much of a factor. The gearshift for some reason doesn't bother me at all. Nice stereo with the luxury package. Another complaint, I know I said only one earlier but I think that this is just a fluke, the power to my rear view mirror (temperature and compass) cuts on and off...some electrical problem there that I am sure the good people at Lawson Mountain Mazda will fix pronto. Great Car!
Very Good Vehicle
LCA, 09/06/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have over 15,000 Miles on this vehicle to date no problems only fun
Zoom! Zoom!
Shawnee, 09/14/2002
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Terrific vehicle for the value. Reliable, comfortable, easy to get in and out of. Can fold down back seats with easy. Good visibility. Would purchase another one in a heart beat! We have had 2 other Mazda products, can't beat um.
Great SUV Purchase for the Money
Stephen Waldrip, 07/12/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just a lot of fun to drive and very sporty looking. Feels like I spent a lot more money I actually did.
Not bad at all
abechap, 11/10/2002
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought after test driving a couple of other SUVs. I Went to Mazda by accident, they let me take one home for the weekend. That was it. My wife loved it when she saw it. Great car for that price. It's FUN to drive.
Fun to Drive
Doug Stimpy, 09/24/2002
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I waited almost 6 months to get this. I have one of the first ones. Zoom Zoom is accurate and fun to drive. Had transmission problem. Dealer was very quick and curtious, I am impressed.
Bucking Bronco
jimmy5510, 07/22/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I test drove my Trubute, with no bad feelings, but after the purchase, I dtook it for a long ride, and to my supprise, It was the worst mistake I have ever made in a vehicle purchase. The road noise was extreamly loud, and the ride was worse. So now I am stuck with a car (Horse) that I can't take on a long ride. I didn't know it was made by Ford, or "Forget it" Anyway, life goes on, I can't say that for Ford.
2003 Tribute
Loriann23, 07/23/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My experience has so far been excellent. The tribute is fun to drive, and handled well in the Winter on slick roads even with only front wheel drive.
Back in Black
JerseyJoe, 07/24/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great Ride, looks good and a lot of room. I'm happy. Still have my other Mazda ('94 626 ES). This ride has much better quality than earlier Mazdas I have had.
Xlnt SUV
xvan053, 12/09/2002
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The perfect SUV for those who want a good car-like ride with AWD and who don't need to climb mountains.
Mazdafied
jack leni, 07/23/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Having driven this Tribute since 9/01, I can honestly say I have enjoyed every minute. The vehicle handles well and response is quick and trustworthy. At higher speeds(70 mph) the car is noisey from the wind factor. Fuel mileage is great, 19mpg city and 22mpg highway. I would like to see a more dressy interior to complement the over all vehicle. I definitely would purchase another Mazda again.
SUV Mazda did it!
Hearts7393, 08/20/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am very happy with my SUV, I look at others but the Mazda always had my heart! Mazda's have always been my automaker of choice I have owned from the 323, 626 and now the SUV Tribute. I am always on the road and now I can rest a sure that the SUV will be able to handle any type of weather. I commuite to the office over 25 miles each way and the gas mileage is not bad!
beware of jim ellis mazda dealers
exasperated, 12/12/2002
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
While the tribute is overall a good car, I have had numerous negative experiences with Mazda in the week since I purchased my car. First, the dealer has been inept - offering me a percentage rate, signing the contract, and then calling me after I've already taken possession of the car and trying to re-negotiate my contract. Second, the day after I brought my car home it began malfunctioning, and the dealer has yet to correct the problems. Third, there is no automatic door unlock on the passenger door - pain for passengers and drivers alike. Overall, pretty good car but sketchy dealers - beware. If it seems like a good deal, read the fine print.
2003 Mazda Tribute
Ahmad, 07/23/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this vehicle. I also like the fact that yo see them everywhere.
Zoom Zoom
itsallgood, 09/19/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I traded in a Mazda Protege for the Tribute and I love it!!! I have never owned a SUV before and I was a little leery about all the hype about the SUV's and safety. The Tribute handles very well and takes curves on the interstate as well as the Protege did. I feel much safer when driving/riding in it than a car. The interior is roomier than other SUV's I have looked at and the cargo space is great for hauling all the camping gear.
tribute to me!!!
weiszer, 12/12/2002
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 Fwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the 1st time i ever saw the tribute i knew i had to have it. it was the cutes thing i had ever seen! my in-laws had just bought my sister-in-law a brand new jeep g.c. all they could talk about was how great it was. i would try to tell them about the tribute, they never heard about it! i went on the internet and e-mailed pics. to my mother-in-law. she also thought it was the cutest. i found silver star mazda on the internet, russ found what i was looking for, and now all my relatives can say is your little suv is soooo cute! a tribute to me!
great car
Linds, 07/25/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute LX-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is extremely fun to drive, its easy to park, no bad blind spots, and is very comfortable for front and back seat passengers.
I LOVE My Tribute
Huufprint, 07/25/2003
2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Having ridden in, owned and used a number of SUV's in my life, the Tribute is definitely the king of the heap when it comes to a smaller SUV. Easy to drive & park; plenty of get-up-and-go for the highway. My only complaint is mileage and range... NOT ENOUGH OF EITHER.