2008 Mazda Tribute Hybrid Review

The Tribute is a crossover SUV that debuted seven years ago. The Tribute shares a platform with the Ford Escape and is incredibly similar. The Tribute is all-new for 2008, and with it, a new hybrid model that shares its HEV technology with the Ford Escape Hybrid and the Mercury Mariner Hybrid.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Mazda Tribute Hybrid is a cheaper alternative to the nearly-identical Escape Hybrid. Unfortunately, its availability is extremely limited at the moment, so chances are it'll be a while yet before you can get your hands on one. Considering its somewhat poor reliability history in its non-hybrid version, that may not be such a bad thing. But once it is widely released, it promises to be a spacious, fuel efficient vehicle.

What's New For 2008:

The Tribute Hybrid is all-new for 2008, but is virtually identical to the Escape Hybrid. Two trims are available: Touring and Grand Touring.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 Mazda Tribute Hybrid price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$29,175

Rebates & Incentives:
no

Seats:
5

Gas Mileage:
34/31

Engine:
2.5L I4

Horsepower:
153@6000RPM

Torque:
136@4500RPM

Transmission:
VAR Speed Automatic

Drive:
FR/FWD

Fuel Capacity:
15

Fuel Type:
gasoline

Basic Warranty:
36/36000

Powertrain Warranty:
60/60000

Rust Warranty:
60/Unlimit

What is the Predicted Reliability:

The Tribute received 2 stars in J.D. Power's dependability survey. Problems with the last generation included coolant leaks, engine stalling, and rough idling. It was recalled a total of 14 times within 5 years. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Tribute Hybrid received 4 stars in government frontal crash tests and 5 stars in side tests. In IIHS tests, it earned "Acceptable" scores for the front and back, and "Good" for the side. Anti-lock brakes and full side airbags are standard.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Good fuel economy
+ Roomy
+ Cheaper than the Escape

Cons
- Limited availability
- Poor reliability history
- More like a Ford than a Mazda

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Tribute Hybrid is nearly identical to the Ford Escape Hybrid, except it costs several thousand less. The Honda CR-V EX-L costs a couple hundred more, but includes traction control, leather, and 30 more hp. However, it gets 14 fewer miles to the gallon in the city. The Toyota Highlander costs a few hundred more, but adds a third row, traction control, and 20 more hp, but gets 12 fewer miles in the city.

What Others Are Saying:

"The 2008 Mazda Tribute HEV is little more than a warmed-over Ford Escape Hybrid, using the same powertrain and many of the same interior bits." - Automobile Magazine

"Shrek. That ogre was the first thing that came to mind when I saw the 2008 Mazda Tribute Hybrid. I think it was the car's color - an unmistakable shade of green - that initially brought him to mind. Once I drove the Tribute, though, I was convinced that it and the animated character have more than just exterior color in common." - Mother Proof

"The 2008 Mazda Tribute HEV Touring has none of the cabin tech we like to see--you will have to get the Grand Touring version for those options. But it is a very practical car, with good interior space and low mileage." - C|Net

Read more about the 2008 Mazda Tribute Hybrid at the Mazda manufacturer web site.

Published on Wednesday, March 19, 2008 - Email to a friend

Copyright 2006 BuyingAdvice.com, INC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.

New Cars