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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  Still Zooming after 50k - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By paguy - June 14 - 10:00 am

  Some minor problems with rear window seal leaking but the dealership fixed it promptly and it was covered under warranty. The brake master cylinder had a defective cap, that was also fixed. Had a few recalls. Nothing major. Our Tribute is just as quick and tight as it was when we bought it. Still a blast to drive. Its only 2wd but seems to go about anywhere anyways. The only complaint I have is the size of the gas tank and the mileage. The gas tank is only about 15 gal. and seems like were always filling the tank. I suppose the mileage is ok for a small 6 cyl. SUV. We get around 18 or 19 mpg city and around 24 or 25 mpg highway.

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  Best Deal on a SUV - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By JCB - May 11 - 10:00 am

  We purchased our Tribute almost a year a go. 16000+ miles, 3 cross country trips and we are still loving it. Fuel economy has improved ...we are averaging 20 mpg in Atlanta traffic! on the highway we managed 25mpg. Not bad considering the great power and comfort. We seriously considered the Toyota Highlander and the Range Rover Freelander, but Tribute wins... power, price, space, ride and for far less than the others.

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  Tribute Summary - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By stev - January 3 - 10:00 am

  Here is a summary of the rest of the board. Fun to drive, looks great, good power, and nice ride. Should change the location of gear shifter, noise at high speeds, gas mileage, mud flaps, cheap "leather", lighted cruise control, ignition light-up, and steering wheel radio control. There has been some stalling early in purchase and customer service is horrible. I agree with all but the last two, knock on wood.

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  Love it, will purchase another - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By erb1 - October 14 - 4:23 am

  I purchased it new, and my vehicle has 170,000 miles on it. I just changed the spark plugs last week. I have driven 700 miles a week for 3.5 years with no problems. I have replaced the brakes once, three years ago. Its starting to get "squeaky" on turns, so I will replace shocks and struts early next year when I get new tires. There have been a few recalls, and my only complaint is that Mazda dealers are few and far between in this area. Also, some of the parts inside look cheap, like the inside door handles are plastic, covered in a metal looking tape stuff. But hey, they work. Will be driving it until it croaks, and will probably buy a second one next year.

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  Fun to drive - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Vlad3v - April 22 - 10:00 am

  I tried this vehicle on highways (in CA), in the city traffic, on the rural road and in the heavy snow in mountains (Lake Tahoe). Its always been fun to drive. I never had luck of power and didnt miss bigger engines of Jeeps, etc. Vehicles behavior on heavy snow (powder ~1/2 of a wheel) has by far exceeded my expectations of "parquette SUV".

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  Best SUV under 26K - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Sheila Sullivan - December 29 - 10:00 am

  Very peppy performing "small" SUV that feels like a mid-size vehicle & corners like a sports car. Lots of room inside for "real" people, including rear seat legroom. Fold the rear seats down & it becomes a serious hauler - very tall & wide rear hatch. Gas mileage is consistently around 20 mpg (& I drive it enthusiastically!) Just cant beat it for the bucks. After a lot of research, we are strongly considering another new Tribute next year. There just isnt anything else in its class that combines great looks, true functionality, economy of operation, and FUN to drive.

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  bang for the buck - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By rice - November 21 - 2:00 am

  Paid 21,500 with factory step guards and rear bumper step up plate, and the dealer installed an fantastic after market power sunroof that looks and acts better than a factory one. This is a GREAT looking car.I dare you to tell me a ML320 looks 20k BETTER! This car has much gettie-up, the V6 200 horse zooms. I has a little apprehensiv about buying a car with anything to do with FORD name, but I prayfully took a shot. So far 13,000 trouble free miles. Had a lot a snow this winter in new york and the 2wd pulled through 24in of snow with only minamil trouble, I can image what the 4wd would do. Gas mileage I would is better than average for a V6

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  best car ive ever owned - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By moparman15 - November 4 - 10:31 am

  got it in 2002 brand new, drive it everyday since now 100k miles...NOT ONE PROBLEM! the only thing thats been replaced is the battery. This thing can fly never expected it to be so fast. The steering is a little too tight but over all best car ive ever owned.

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  From Porsche to Tribute - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By LoveMyTribute - October 28 - 10:00 am

  Had a 2000 Boxster S. Traded and bought my Tribute ES 4WD. Would MUCH rather have a Tribute than a Porsche anyday. It is the right size, useful, comfortable, performs beautifully, and a joy to own. I coulc not be happier.

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  Good value - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By satisfied buyer - September 20 - 2:00 am

  I did my research and found the Mazda had better handeling, overall finish the the liberty, better gas mileage and more kick than the Honda and Toyota I am very pleased.