2005 Mazda Tribute New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2005 Mazda Tribute?
Mazda's Tribute receives significant upgrades for 2005, including a fresh face, a revised interior (replete with console-mounted shifter), and a new base engine. The 2005 Tribute receives new nomenclature this year as well: the i model designates the 153-horsepower, 2.3-liter four-cylinder, while the s trim denotes the returning 3.0-liter V6 powerplant. Antilock brakes are now standard across the Tribute line, and a new, electronically controlled full-time four-wheel-drive system is available. Side-impact and side-curtain airbags are optional for 2005, and a new Premium package includes color-keyed bumpers, cruise control, and leather upholstery. New colors called Pebble Ash, Dark Titanium, Mystic Black and Platinum Metallic join the color palate.

Advantages of the 2005 Mazda Tribute:

• Looks like a truck but drives like a car
• Roomy interior with lots of cargo space
• Comfortable seating for four adults
• V6 models are speedy

Objections to the 2005 Mazda Tribute:

• That speedy V6 gets unimpressive fuel economy
• Seats get hard on a long drive
• Drum rear brakes on i model
• Interior bits and pieces are on the cheap side

Editor's Advice:
The 2005 Mazda Tribute is for those who need a bit of sports car character in an SUV. With its torquey 200-horsepower 3.0-liter V6, quick steering, and rather stiff four-wheel independent suspension, the Tribute drives more like a sporty sedan than a sport-utility vehicle. Although the new base engine has 23 more ponies than last year, avoid the standard 153-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder motor; it's weak. But while the V6 is better suited to move the Mazda Tribute, it gets unimpressive fuel economy. Combined with a relatively small gas tank, V6 models barely go 200 miles between fill-ups. Despite its optional automatic 4WD system, the Mazda Tribute is not much of an off-roader, but most drivers won't use it on the rough stuff anyway. It can handle moderate trails and slippery roads with aplomb. The freshened interior is a welcomes sight, especially with the new console-mounted shifter that replaced the column-mounted unit – a source of aggravation for us, as it blocked some of the audio controls when drive gear was engaged. With the rear seats folded, 66 cubic feet of cargo space is available, a good amount for a vehicle of this size. Plus, there's legitimate space for five adults. Fun-to-drive, affordable, and good-looking, the 2005 Mazda Tribute is near the top of our list of favorite small SUVs.