2001 Mazda Tribute Review Summaries

What reviewers liked most about the Mazda Tribute:

While the Tribute is smaller than the Explorer, you certainly don't feel cramped. Seats ride at just the right height for most drivers and passengers to get in and out with ease.

-- AutoWeek

It drives like a tall, sporty station wagon, feeling nimble and surefooted on pavement.

-- Edmunds.com

Responsive handling and brisk V6 performance make Tribute one of best of the small SUVs sold today.

-- New Car Test Drive

Properly equipped, the Tribute can tow trailers up to 3500 pounds, which covers lightweight ski boats, ATVs, snowmobiles, and small boats.

-- New Car Test Drive

What reviewers liked least about the Mazda Tribute:

All-wheel-drive is available, yet it lacks a low-range gear and other items essential for true off-roading.

-- Cars.com

The trade-off, of course, is that when you get a Tribute into the mud, it is somewhat limited in its capability to bash boulders and scrabble up mountainsides.

-- Edmunds.com

It's capable of seating five, but more comfortable with four, and no shoulder belt is provided for the rear-center position.

-- New Car Test Drive

Mazda Tribute Comparisons:

The Tribute has smoother styling than the rugged-looking Escape, and also features a different dashboard, controls, steering wheel and front seats.

-- Carpoint.com

Mazda Tribute's external dimensions are comparable to those of the Jeep Liberty and Honda CR-V. It is longer than a RAV4 and nearly as wide as a Ford Explorer.

-- New Car Test Drive

Best one-liner about the Mazda Tribute:

It's slightly more sporty than the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Nissan Xterra...As for being an RX-7/Miata successor? Nice try, Mazda.

-- AutoWeek