Skip to main content

Used 2008 Mazda Tribute Consumer Reviews

4.1 out of 5 stars
59 reviews

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.

Price history graph example

Trending topics in reviews

Pros
Cons
3.88 out of 5 stars

Tribute 5-speed 4-cyl Initial report

5speed, 07/19/2008
2008 Mazda Tribute i Sport 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Purchased the Tribute i sport with 5-speed manual transmission,fwd, and 4-cyl engine because I wanted a vehicle with cargo capacity and respectable fuel economy. The dealer where I made the purchase had to locate the vehicle with this combination, because they had never had a Tribute on their lot with a manual transmission. There is not a photo available of the manual shift lever and console combination available in the Mazda brochure. But Mazda did a good job with the 5-speed package, the shift lever is well finished and attractive with a good relationship to the steering wheel. The clutch pressure is very light and makes shifting gears easy. Now have 1709 miles and my average MPG is 30.97

Report Abuse

4.75 out of 5 stars

Great Car!

Shannon, 10/02/2008
2008 Mazda Tribute i Sport 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had my Tribute for 14 months and I still love it the same as I did a year ago. It's very reliable, good gas mileage and was a good choice for me and my family. I have a 6yr and a 1year old, even on long trips, it's a little small.. but good on gas (which is most important to us) I would buy from this Mazda again because my buying AND service experience has been great!!! I would recommend this car to anyone that wants a economical small SUV!

Report Abuse
2008 Mazda Tribute for sale near you
3 of 17 listings
See all 17 listings

3.75 out of 5 stars

A couple of problems

JEL, 01/15/2010
2008 Mazda Tribute i Sport 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I mostly like my 2008 Tribute, but it doesn't seem to handle very well in the rain or on curves. Downright scary at times. Also, if your long- legged, be aware of the headlight switch. It has a molded ring around it that I've cut my leg on about half a dozen times. I also had the problem with the sunglass holders popping open, until I got the dealer to replace them.

Report Abuse

4.13 out of 5 stars

So far so good...

Pat1usmc, 12/16/2007
2008 Mazda Tribute s Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

So far I am very happy with my purchase and enjoy driving my Tribute very much. A lot of expert reviews complain about the engine and handling but I find the 6 cylinder to be very peppy when you step on the gas. Its no musclecar, but its more than satisfactory. Handling seems very solid, as it stays very flat through turns. Steering feel is also excellent. I bought it for the space, comfort and ability to handle offroad situations once in a while. Most SUVs that reviewers say are better than the Tribute can not go offroad. The price can definitely not be beat either. AWD Grand Touring edition at more than $2700 off MSRP! I feel like I got a lot of car for the money.

Report Abuse

4.88 out of 5 stars

Two mths and happy

Dsquare, 07/22/2008
2008 Mazda Tribute i Touring 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Purchased my tribute in early June 08 and have been happy. Took car from Va to Fla and did well. A little cramped for the 4 of us + luggage, but still managed 26+ mpg with a/c on the whole way. Excellent auto considering the price point.

Report Abuse
Items per page:
5