Used 2005 Mazda Tribute Consumer Reviews
I Like This SUV
This Tribby replaced a Ford Explorer Sport. What a difference! Handling, ride, comfort, performance, gas mileage, even radio reception are all much better than the Explorer. Has the feel of a much bigger SUV inside than the Liberty and RAV4 which I also tested. This Tribby came with Continental tires which I chose to upgrade to Michelin Cross Terrains for an additional $240.
2005 Tribute-S overview
My wife & I set out to purchase an SUV to transport kids, have the capability to tow at least up to 3,500 lbs, small enough to drive around in city traffic and be as inexpensive a purchase as possible. I looked at the Honda CRV & Pilot but neither met our entire criteria. After 2 months of ownership the Tribute-S is very satisfying in terms of driveability, reliability and looks. We find the Tribute quiet, nimble handling, fits/adjusts to my 5'0 wife & seats her high to see out over the traffic. The V-6 power/take-off is great! Of all the options to choose from, we opted for the extra security of the "side curtain air bags" and did lower our car insurance a bit.
Zoom Zoom
So far, I really love this SUV. It is a really comfortable vehicle and it is a pleasure to drive.
good all around small SUV
Drove several Small SUV's before deciding on this one (Xterra, Escape, Vue, Equinox, Liberty, others). Tribute was the best overall value. With good rebates got some nice options including moonroof and 6-cd changer. I find the FWD to be just fine for my style of 99% road driving. Don't pay extra for 4WD unless you're going to use it off-road.
I love my Zoom-Zoomer
After careful research, using Edmund's.com as a tool, I selected the Mazda Tribute after finding that it matched 9 of the 10 criteria I insisted on having in an SUV. The test drives I took on the freeway and mountain roads sealed the deal. The Tribute in size and comfort beat out all the mid-size SUV's I considered, the safety features and style are high on my list, and it's an all-around pleaser on any road conditions it has faced. Driving it is not only fun, it's satisfying. It's a head-turner with it's step-tubes, gorgeous paint job, and all-around sporty look. The cargo area is spacious, easily accessible, and the secure. This SUV rocks!