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 71 through 80 of 137.00

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  Fun to drive - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Bop - November 12 - 10:00 am

  This is a new-owner review. I will write a follow-up later, maybe after 6 months or a year. Initial experience, after extensive test-drive and comparisons, is that the Tribute is the best value for the money out there. And it IS fun to drive. I have no complaints at this time, and can only recommend one.

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  mazda tribute ES - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By ed villere - July 12 - 10:00 am

  I love my Tribute. Since I bought my 1st Mazda GLC in 1982, I have owned 12 Mazdas. I have purchased both new and used and at present own the Trbute, 1998 2500 truck,and 1996 MX-6. The only things I would change on my TRibute are the following: add compass and thermometer to rear view mirror, temperature setting automatically on air conditioning, auto door lock when the car put in gear, cd player that has random disc to disc capabilities, Thats about it.

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  New, but I love it - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By fast24monte - July 6 - 10:00 am

  Although I never thought I would buy anything other than a Chevy, Im in love with my Tribute. The ride is comparable to a car. Good pickup and a smooth ride. My only real complaint is the AWFUL gas mileage. With the right option packages, this small SUV is the perfect alternative to a car. Unfortunately, I think there is significant power loss with the air conditioner running. Other than that, I love my Tribute.

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  This SUV Rocks! - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Satisfied Driver - May 30 - 10:00 am

  I bought an ES-4WD three weeks ago. I already racked up 1600 miles. So far Ive been very impressed. After driving a sports car for seven years, I wanted a car-based mini-SUV with somewhat similiar performance. The Tribute doesnt disappoint. Its quite nimble to drive and has plenty of power to boot. Fuel economy averages about 20 a gallon ... not too shabby. Ive test-driven a few other mini-SUV (Honda CRV, Toyota Rav4 ...), I think the Tribute is definitely a good buy for its class.

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  what a dissapointment - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By ears - April 17 - 2:00 am

  Like may of the other people who posted comments, I too liked my Tribute when I first purchased it. With under 10,000 we had to have a new trans put into the vehicle. Since then its been in the shop 4 additonal times (another major problem was the rack, which had to be replaced). The final straw was when the vehicle stalled in traffic. Ive contacted a Lemon Law attorney.

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  Bad Experience. Good Timing - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By doreen - January 17 - 10:00 am

  I just want everyone to know, I test drove a brand new Mazda Tribute that only had 35 miles on it and it stalled while I was in the car with the salesperson. That is not good

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  2002 Mazda Tribute Review - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By bud - January 5 - 5:30 pm

  Drives like a sports car. Strong V6 has great acceleration. Highway gas mileage averaging 23.8 mpg. Power sunroof is great, no drafs or wind noise.

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  mazda tribute lx - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Justine Ryan - December 29 - 1:46 pm

  I decided to buy a 4 wheel drive SUV as my purchase due to the fact that I drive frequently to VT and it is very hilly and snowy in my destination area. I compared many type and model SUVs and opted to purchase a mini SUV. I then selected the Mazda Tribute for its looks, its desent gas mileage for an SUV and its excellent safety record.

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  Mazda LX 2wd - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Danley2 - November 30 - 10:00 am

  I have enjoyed finally having an SUV. I found the price to be a very good value. I have only a few design peeves. 1) The gear shift is in the way of the radio controls while driving. 2) The child window lock option is great but when engaged, the driver cannot control the other windows without turning off the lock. 3) The foam molding under the windshield at the dash keeps popping back out from under the dash. 4) The side mirror control button is awkwardly placed making it hard to sit back and check mirror position while changing settings. 5) Fog lights should come on with running lights and not just with headlights on.

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  Great Over the Long Haul - 4+ years - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By ameliacatz - November 15 - 12:36 am

  Ive had this vehicle for almost 5 years now and overall it has been great. Ive had very few problems and it has been economical to maintain. There have been a few recalls which were handled without problem. I did need to have the power sunroof repaired when it decided to stop closing, but it was under warranty and the dealer rushed me in without an appointment the day I called and Ive had no problems since. As to brake usage, Im still using the original set. At the 50,000 service they said it would need brakes next time. My 96 Chevy Blazer needed brakes every 20,000 miles! I just replaced the original tires a few months ago. Ive enjoyed driving the vehicle!