Overview & Reviews

After an extremely successful introductory year, Mazda's Tribute SUV receives only minor modifications for 2002. DX models get additional standard equipment in the form of alloy wheels, dark-tinted glass and remote keyless entry. After a short production run, however, the DX-V6 model will be discontinued. Midgrade LX models can be ordered with ABS as a stand-alone option (last year it was bundled with side airbags) and with a six-way power driver seat. Both LX and ES models get a new driver lumbar support feature. Side step tubes are a new option on all Tribs, and four new colors debut for 2002.

• Stout V6 power, rugged good looks, roomy cabin, attractive pricing.

• Weak standard four-cylinder engine, no low-range transfer case.

User Reviews:

Showing 41 through 50 of 137.00

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  Mazda Tribute A Womens perfect car. - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By school teacher - July 20 - 1:43 am

  I bought the ES V6 2wheel drive. I compared it to other mini SUVs and liked the ride, leather seats, power drivers seat and power to get on the freeway. Plenty of room for bringing home stuff from the nursery. I love sitting up high and seeing more of the road. Im barely 5 tall and need the optional step tubes. Its a great option, particularily for women.

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  GREAT CAR! - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By michst2789 - July 13 - 1:10 pm

  This is my second Tribute, before this I had a 2003. This a great car that could last for a long time. Reliability is great, gas mileage is lacking, but that is expected with an SUV. Comfort is really good and it really gets up and goes with that V6 engine in it. GREAT CAR OVERALL!!

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  Glad to own - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By rickwla - June 26 - 10:00 am

  Traded in a Subaru Forester, which was an excellent car, and Im very satisfied with the performance and roominess of the Tribute. Fuel economy could be better, but its par for the course for its class. 7 speaker stereo system has great sound. Wish there were seperate controls for the air conditioning and the vent outlets (why Ford chooses to limit air conditioning only to the front vents is a mystery).

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  I love to zoom zoom! - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By zoomzoom - May 14 - 10:00 am

  The Tribute is a great mix of practicality and sportyness. I have thoroughly enjoyed my Tribute. It is a great value for the money and towers about its class. The CRV and RAV4 seem cheaper but with options they end up being more expensive with a smaller engine and a rougher ride. I put 5000 miles on my Tribute in the first two months and I have had no problems thus far. While the interior is plain it is practical and you cant get more without paying a lot more money. I dont mind the odd gear shift--it actually makes a nice hand rest when you are flipping through radio stations and allows for more storage space between seats. Zoom zoom!!

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  Pretty reliable after 4 yrs! - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By nalarika - May 1 - 11:20 pm

  Had some problems in the beginning with the transmission and exhaust manifolds, warranty covered those so ever since then we have had no powertrain issues. The door seals seem to sag and that is annoying but other than that the car has a ton of features for the price and has made many adventurous trips with us!

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  Best Small SUV - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Big Tom - April 12 - 9:00 pm

  Test drove and priced several small SUVs. I am 69". This one has plenty of head and leg room and is comfortable to drive. I have the ES model and it has everything to offer that vehicles selling for $10000 more have. The gas economy is a little weak but appears to match other 6 cylinder vehicles with the same horsepower.

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  This is the ONE - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Mojo - April 2 - 10:00 am

  I have finally found the perfect SUV to fit my lifestyle. I have been looking for something to fit my tastes as well as my budget and the 02 Tribute ES-V6 was the perfect match. The ride is smooth and handles just like my wifes Mitsubishi Galant. The interior is plush and the exterior is sleek and stylish. I would defintitely recommend this to anyone out there in the market for a compact SUV.

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  Classy Appearance - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By jchris - April 2 - 10:00 am

  I saw one on the road and was immediately drawn to it back in 2000. I went to look at one right away. I was impressed and I thought the exterior and interior complimented one another and was impressed that it seemed to look and feel more like a car than a truck. Overall it fit my desire to not be too sporty or to be too much like a luxury SUV.

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  So far so good! - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By ccarlson - April 2 - 5:23 am

  Took some time getting used to after driving a car; felt tippy and had too many column levers, kept turning wiper blades on to put it in gear. I agree with some others that it needs a lighted key ignition, hard to locate in the dark even after 3 years. I had engine light come on first year and a couple recalls but all were fixed in a timely manner by the dealer. Seats were and still are hard as a rock, but holding up well. Love the front wheel drive, rarely need the 4WD. Has good visual all around. Tire & wind noise on the inside is loud. Had 6 disk CD player replaced once, has nice sound. If made a little wider and fixed above items, it would be the ultimate small SUV. Good vehicle!

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  BEST, AFFORDABLE, RELIABLE - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By trexy2 - February 24 - 10:00 am

  GREAT SUV in style and performance...Choose the es-v6 4wd!!!