Mazda Gets Its Entry-Level SUV Back with Updated 2008 Tribute

If you were questioning whether Mazda would keep its Ford Escape-based Tribute in its ever-expanding lineup now that it’s launched the sporty new CX-7 and 7-occupant CX-9 crossovers, the answer isclear now that the Japanese brand has released photos of the upcoming 2008 Tribute, once again based on the Escape.

Eschewing the sportier, RX-8 like lines of the CX-7, the Tribute once again gives traditional SUV buyers something more conventional at an entry-level price point that's more accessible.

A recent Mazda press release reads, “By combining the capability and styling of a traditional SUV with the benefits of a crossover, the Tribute has long been a favourite among those shopping for an entry-level SUV. Bymaintaining its traditional styling, Tribute complements the all-new Mazda CX-7 and CX-9 and offers Mazda buyers an alternative choice in SUV functionality.”

Why two crossover SUVs in the compact category? It’s simple, once you price them out. At $24,345 the CX-7 gives those shopping in the entry-level sport/luxury segment a very affordable alternative to an Acura RDX, BMW X3 or Land Rover LR2, whereas the Tribute, expected to be priced at about $20K and change, will be thousands lower, targeting new families and empty-nesters on fixed incomes.

Most obvious, the 2008 Tribute gets revised front and rear fascias, a new hood, liftgate, mirrors, wheels, headlamps, taillights, fog lights and a raised beltline. Inside, an entirely new dash layout with revised instrumentation, a new center stack and higher qualitymaterials overall, join new seats and new colour combinations to enhance the ownership experience.

The new Tribute continues to offer a standard 2.3-liter four- and optional 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, once again making 153- and 200- horsepower respectively. A five-speed manual remains the entry-level transmission, with a four-speed automatic the upgrade. The optional active torque split all-wheel drive system is available with both engines, although only with the automatic gearbox; front-wheel drive is standard.

While standard features are yet to be announced, expect air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD audio system, remote keyless entry, heated power sideview mirrors, power windows and door locks, 16-inch alloy wheels and fog lights, plus side curtain airbags, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Roll Over Stability Control (RSC), and Traction Control System (TCS).

Two upgrade packages are also expected, with the first offering such niceties as the V6 and auto transmission standard, with the option of AWD, a roof rack with cross bars, a six-way power adjustable driver’s seat with adjustable lumbar and height support, an overhead console with dual storage bins, front seatback map pockets, a leather wrapped steering wheel, retractable cargo cover and trailer towing package, and top-line Grand Touring models getting everything on the middle trim model as well as automatic headlamps and a power-operated glass moonroof with interior sunshade, not to mention heated leather trimmed seats, a seven-speaker AM/FM 6CD changer audio system with auto volume control, and an overhead console with single storage bins. All-wheel drive system is also expected to be standard with the Grand Touring.

With revised styling, traditional SUV practicality, greater safety than the previous model and a reasonable base price, the 2008 Tribute should continue to be a sound alternative in the compact sport utility segment.