Used 2004 Mazda Tribute
Buying Guide for the Mazda Tribute:
Ford had its eye on the Mazda company for some time before
it effectively bought control of the Japanese manufacturer.
Now Mazda falls under the umbrella of the Ford family, with
many of its models sharing the same platform as Ford vehicles,
and vice versa.
For instance, the Mazda Tribute has a similar design as the
Ford Escape. Like the Escape, the Tribute is a compact sport
utility vehicle with plenty of pizzazz, as well as safety
and functionality for the more level-headed side of driving.
However, the two models are not carbon-copies of one another.
The Tribute has its own unique look, plus a different suspension
configuration. For 2004, there isn’t much new with the Mazda
Tribute—it is scheduled for a redesign next model year.
Under the Hood
The Tribute is given plenty of pop under its hood, especially
with LX and ES models. The base DX doesn’t do too bad either.
It uses a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that tops out
at 130 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque. This engine is
mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.
LX and ES models are fitted with a more powerful 3.0-liter
V6. They are also equipped with a 4-speed automatic transaxle.
The 3.0-liter V6 generates 200 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of
torque.
Tributes are offered as front-wheel drive models and as SUVs
with an all-wheel drive system. AWD models lack low-range
gearing, but they do have a dashboard switch that locks in
a 50/50 front-rear torque split.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The accommodations inside the Tribute mirror those of the
Ford Escape. The four-door SUV has two rows of seating and
can accommodate up to five passengers. 63.9 cubic feet of
cargo space are at your disposal.
There are quite a few options packages available with the
2004 Mazda Tribute. Many of them up the comfort level considerably
and are reserved for top-line trims. For example, a Luxury
Package is offered with LX and ES models. It includes a power
sunroof, an overhead console, an AM/FM/cassette player with
an in-dash 6-disc CD changer and premium speakers.
Customers who wish to purchase the top-line ES model can
also opt for a Cold Package. It features heated front seats
and mirrors for cold winter days.
|
