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 21 through 30 of 137.00-
Tribute ES-V6 4WD ... fun driving - 2002 Mazda Tribute
By orlie - July 20 - 10:00 amA 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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Its a Ford, people. - 2002 Mazda Tribute
By rjpaxton - June 2 - 2:00 amWe 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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So far, so good.... - 2002 Mazda Tribute
By MickeyD - NJ - March 7 - 10:00 amI 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 amI 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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Whining - 2002 Mazda Tribute
By db4180 - October 13 - 2:00 amEverything is great except for a whining noise @35-40 mph. Then it disappears. Any comments would be appreciated.
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Viewpoint from a Professor - 2002 Mazda Tribute
By Professor - March 31 - 10:00 amI have had my 2001 Tribute DX/V6 for a little more than a year. Call it luck, or simply a reasonably well-designed vehicle, no problems at all @ almost 40,000 miles. With the exception of some wind noise at highway speeds, and wishful better fuel economy...pretty satisfied with my purchase. I would encourage a tight maintenance schedule however.
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New, but I love it - 2002 Mazda Tribute
By fast24monte - July 6 - 10:00 amAlthough 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 amI 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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Mazda LX 2wd - 2002 Mazda Tribute
By Danley2 - November 30 - 10:00 amI 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 amIve 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!
