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The Mazda Tribute (''Code J14'') is a Compact SUV built by Ford Motor Company for the Japan ese Automaker Mazda since 2001. It is based on the Front-wheel Drive Mazda 626 platform, which is in turn the basis for the similar Ford Escape on the CD2 Platform . The Tribute and Escape debuted in 2001, offering front and All Wheel Drive and a choice of a 2.0 L Ford Zetec 4-cylinder or Ford Duratec 3.0 L V6 . It was also sold as the Ford Maverick in Europe with a Ford 2.0 L Zetec engine with Manual Transmission , or 3.0 L Duratec coupled to Automatic Transmission . One main difference between the Tribute and the Ford Escape/Maverick is that the Tribute's suspension is tuned for a firmer ride than the Escape/Maverick, in order to correspond with Mazda's sporty image. The left hand drive Tribute/Escape/Maverick are built at Ford's Kansas City assembly plant in Claycomo, Missouri , while the Right Hand Drive versions are assembled in Hofu , Japan . FIRST GENERATION (2001 - 2007/2008)
The Tribute made its debut at the 2000 Los Angeles Auto Show . In the United States , it somewhat filled the gap left by the Mazda Navajo , a rebadged Ford Explorer, (which was retired in 1994), while in most other countries it was the first Mazda-badged SUV ever sold. Engine options:
Revisions for 2005 Both the Escape and Tribute were refreshed for 2005. The base engine is now the Mazda 2.3 L MZR 4 , and the top remains the 3.0 L Duratec V6 . In North America n built models, a floor mounted Automatic Transmission shifter replaced the column shifter. However, Japanese-built models continued with a column shifter. Mazda has recently decided to halt production for the 2007 Model Year for the Tribute, and a Hybrid version of the Tribute will be introduced alongside the next generation Tribute. Engine options: SECOND GENERATION - ASIA-PACIFIC (2007- )
A significantly facelifted version of the Tribute will be released in the second half of 2006 for Asia Pacific markets. The updated Tribute will feature a larger, bolder grille, with an enlarged Mazda emblem, as well as restyled front bumper and headlights. Side mirrors will feature integrated indicators. On the inside, changes include a new floor mounted automatic transmission shifter, in place of the old column shifter (only for Japanese-built models; the US -built Tribute already gained a floor shifter in 2005). The dash has been updated with a brand-new radio and automatic climate control with digital read-out, on certain models. Mechanically, the rear drum brakes of the previous model have been replaced by disc brakes. Engines remain the same, but the V6 has been modified to reduce fuel consumption by over 10%, while the 4-cylinder has improved mid-range torque and an electronic throttle. Both engines had been certified to meet Euro III emission regulations. SECOND GENERATION - NORTH AMERICA (2008- )
For the 2008 model year, the Tribute was revamped significantly, like its sibling Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner , with a new look. Originally set to be renamed the ''Mazda CX-5'', the vehicle kept the Tribute name. The changes are significant, but fall short of "clean sheet" redesign, as the vehicles remained on the old CD2 Platform , and kept the old 2.3l MZR I4 , and 3.0l AJ V6 engines. Visible changes include all new sheet metal and interior. Unlike the first generation of the Tribute, which had unique exterior and interior from its siblings, the new model only differs from its siblings in the "nose" (front fenders, hood, and front fascia), tail lights and detailing. Notable changes to the exterior include higher belt line, and more pronounced wheel arches. Overall the car was to look larger and more substantial than the previous model. The interior was upgraded using all new components and higher quality materials. 1 A new addition was the Hybrid model which was previously only available on the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner. The 2008 Mazda Tribute (non-hybrid) was first unveiled at the 2007 Montreal auto show, and the 2008 Mazda Tribute went on sale in March 20072 . EXTERNAL LINKS REFERENCES |
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