Vehicle Reviews

The 2009 Mazda Tribute is a five-passenger crossover SUV that features rugged styling and a smooth ride. The Tribute enters 2009 with a few changes that include the availability of a new engine that provides more power and improved fuel economy. Front and rear seats are redesigned for 2009. The 2009 Mazda Tribute comes in i and s models and both are available in the same trim levels Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring.

New features available on all 2009 Mazda Tribute models include halogen automatic on/off headlamps and easy capless fuel filler system. Maximum cargo capacity of the 2009 Tribute is 66.3 cubic feet. The 2009 Mazda Tribute offers a host of standard features such as a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat and adjustable lumbar support; premium 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels; privacy glass; side bolsters; six-foot high liftgate; air conditioning; heated front seats; daytime running lights; roof rack; remote keyless entry; top-quality (leather or cloth depending on the trim) upholstery; steering-wheel-mounted audio controls; three-tier center console; 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback; power door locks; power windows; and four-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary audio input jack.

A 171-horsepower 2.5-liter VVT four-cylinder engine is new on the 2009 Tribute i model, while the s model gets a powerful 3.0-liter V6 engine capable of 240 horsepower and 223 pound-feet of torque. A new six-speed automatic transmission is standard for all trims except the i Sport which can be equipped with either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox. A front-wheel drive system is standard, while a distinctive Active Torque Control Coupling (ATCC) four-wheel drive is available on all trims, except for the Tribute i Sport with manual transmission.

The 2009 Mazda Tribute is equipped with standard safety features such as dynamic stability control; roll stability control; traction control; advanced front airbags; side impact airbags; side air curtains with roll-over protection; front seat-belt pre-tensioners with force limiters; LATCH child safety seat anchors; anti-lock brake system with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution; and tire pressure monitoring system.