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 51 through 60 of 137.00

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  AOK by me - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By teleskier - November 6 - 2:00 am

  Ive only had the Trib for 3 months, but so far Ive enjoyed my purchase. My biggest concern was performance in snow, as I live in a mountainous region and like to ski. The Trib has done fine driving through snow storms and up snowy mountain roads. It also holds all my gear with out a problem. I like the power it has to go up Mountain passes and to cruise on the highway. The roof rack could be a little higher as the clamps for Thule ski rack I put on dont have enough clearance off the roof. The gas milage is disappointing, Ive been averaging 18-19 mpg with a combination of highway and city driving. R

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  Save Your Money-Spend it Elsewhere - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Mazda-Hater - October 7 - 10:00 am

  Actually I have a 2002 Mazda that had to have a new transmission at only 18,000 miles. The dealership was very unhelpful. First they stated that compressor for the air conditioner came in but, after a week they stated not all the parts were there (who knows why it took them a week to discover this). Then they did not have the tool to fix the car (I would think that they had tools to fix the cars they sold). They had our car for two weeks and still did not fix two of the three problems (one was supposed to be fixed by the new transmission). I would not recommend this car to my worse enemy! We are currently looking to replace the car.

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  Tribute ES-V6 4WD ... fun driving - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By orlie - July 20 - 10:00 am

  A year ago, I was looking for an affordable, useful, and good looking vehicle to replace my old sedan. The Tribute was my #1 choice back then (Jan 01), and it still is now (May 02). Its by far the most useful yet fun to drive vehicle Ive had without breaking my budget. I love the way it handles on just about all on- road conditions although I wouldnt take it off-road -- its not a Jeep. Gas mileage is disappointing at 16mpg city and 21mpg highway, less than the EPA ratings, but that may be because I enjoy driving it too much. Exterior is stylish and refined-looking; interior needs better materials and sound insulation.

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  Mazda Tribute - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By goelker - July 13 - 10:00 am

  Nice platform for best looking SUV on the market. Same mechanicals as the Ford Escape, it is cosmetically superior with softer features and better exterior colors. For what we wanted, the price is less for the Mazda than the Ford. Actually, very fun to drive for a SUV. Great visibility and interior space for a vehicle with such a small footprint. Great in small parking lots.

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  Its a Ford, people. - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By rjpaxton - June 2 - 2:00 am

  We purchased the 2WD DX model instead of a small pickup, and were pretty happy with it for a few months. It looks great from the outside, and the interior design is well-thought out and easy to work with. Its slooooow, though Im sure the V6 is zippier. Decent handling once you put good tires on it. Problems with: stereo, drivers side window, rear hatch window, failed wheel bearing, clutch pedal squeak, clutch chatter. Quality wholly unacceptable.

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  I still love my little Tribute!!!! - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By fastmonte24 - May 19 - 2:00 am

  I have had my little Mazda for almost 8 months and still love it! Knock on wood, I have had not one single problem with it. My Trib goes anywhere I need to go, in any weather condition. The push button 4 wheel drive- very convenient!!!! I will buy a new version on this vehicle in a few years. Yes, I still miss some of the features of a CAR, but would not trade my Trib anytime soon.

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  Nice for a small SUV - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By CreamCorn - April 19 - 10:00 am

  Driven for 2000 Miles with no issues. Found that after 1000 the transmission was a little more responsive whle in OD. Nice classic look that will not go out of style unlike others in the same catagory.

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  So far, so good.... - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By MickeyD - NJ - March 7 - 10:00 am

  I was most impressed with the styling. I am a little concerned about the spongy brake pedal. The cigarette lighter doesnt work and the fuel door is problematic. The premium sound system breaks up a little when pushed. The stalling problem?... While coasting into a drive, the car began to buck and would not move forward. Worried, I checked the gear selector and discovered that I had inadvertantly put the car into reverse. I simply placed the car back into drive and its been fine ever since. Ive gottten about 25.4 MPG (not bad at all). This car is so much fun to drive, Ill make any excuse to run to the store or just simply, to take a ride.

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  Not Bad for an SUV - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By FirstSUV - December 7 - 10:00 am

  I was looking for an mini suv with good passing power and comfort. The tribute had both. The V6 engine has great power on demand. Ive had it now for 3 months. The only complaint I have about it is the driver side mirror vibrates at speeds above 70 mph. Otherwise, Im completely satisfied with the purchase. If you are in the market for one, put it on your test drive list.

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  crap car - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By jhouse123179 - December 3 - 10:00 am

  this vehicle has been nothing but trouble. Ive had to replace the following: Engine, Coolant Reservoir, Headlights, Tie Rods, Control Arms, Rear Wiper Motor, Windshield needed re- sealed, Rear hatch window needed adjusted so it wouldnt leak, Rear hatch Door Needed adjusted didnt close properly, Sun Roof Doesnt open properly...switch sticks, Transmission doesnt shift properly, brakes wear very fast even the rotors. Its only been 2 years and this is what I get! Am I supposed to assume the Air Bags will work if I ever needed them? Ive only driven it 61 000 kms its got 19000 kms left on manufacturers warranty the hole car has almost been replaced.