2011 Mazda Tribute review

With the 2011 Mazda Tribute, a final model year before it was formally terminated, an era for this small SUV comes to a close. The Tribute, which is intended for drivers looking for a useful SUV at a reasonable price, offers a straightforward driving experience that puts utility before style. For small families, everyday commuters, or first-time SUV buyers, it offers a dependable and roomy alternative, even though its contemporary styling and cutting-edge technology might not draw attention.

The 2011 Tribute was developed in collaboration with Ford and shares a lot of its engineering with the Ford Escape, giving it access to a well-established platform and readily available replacement parts. The Tribute is a little more upscale substitute with a recognizable driving experience, nevertheless, thanks to Mazda's own additions to the trim options and styling.

Summary and salient characteristics

The 2011 Mazda Tribute is a small sport utility vehicle that combines a modest sense of flair with everyday functionality. It was released at a time when small SUVs were becoming more and more well-liked because to their adaptability, fuel economy, and capacity to manage a range of driving requirements, from mild off-road excursions to city commuting. The 2011 model year is the last chance to acquire a new Mazda SUV bearing the Tribute label because it is the last model year in the Tribute lineup.

Since the Tribute and the Ford Escape were created together during Mazda's collaboration with Ford, they have a lot in common both inside and out. This indicates that the Tribute has a strong base, simple mechanics, and an economical and accessible parts network. In order to appeal to drivers seeking a straightforward yet functional small SUV, Mazda made a few minor changes to the Tribute's appearance, trim levels, and available equipment.

Configurations and Trim Levels

To accommodate a variety of tastes and price ranges, the Mazda Tribute was available in several model levels for 2011. These consist of:

i Sport: The base model with a fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine and all the equipment you need.

A step up from the base, i Touring provides more convenience and comfort.

The best-equipped model is the Grand Touring, which has a more powerful V6 engine, better interior materials, and more sophisticated amenities.

Customers could select between all-wheel drive (AWD) for improved traction in slick weather or front-wheel drive (FWD) for better fuel economy. Because of its adaptability, the Tribute was able to satisfy the demands of both urban and country drivers.

Outside Highlights

The 2011 Tribute kept its classic SUV form and has a simple yet rather tough design. Many liked its boxy appearance, which improved visibility and internal space, even if it did not follow the trend of curving crossovers. It had a more comprehensive, functional appearance thanks to body-colored trim pieces, roof rails, standard 16-inch wheels, and optional fog lamps.

Space and Interior Features

The Tribute's interior was functional. With big buttons and simple controls, the layout was uncomplicated. Despite the lack of luxury materials, the cabin seemed sturdy and well-put together. Among the primary features offered by the various trim levels were:

Seating that is comfortable for up to five people

Depending on the trim, control can be either manual or automatic.

Power-adjustable driver's seat and leather upholstery are options.

Sunroof and enhanced audio system options

Rear seats that fold flat to increase packing spaceFamilies or anybody else in need of a flexible car for everyday use will benefit from the Tribute's ample headroom and legroom for both front and back passengers.

Utility and Cargo

The Tribute's usefulness was one of its best features. It provided more than 67 cubic feet of cargo capacity when the back seats were folded down, which made it perfect for transporting luggage, groceries, or equipment on road trips. Both weekend adventurers and pet owners valued the convenience of loading made possible by the low cargo floor and rear hatch.

Performance and Engine Options

With two engine options tailored to suit various driver preferences, the 2011 Mazda Tribute provides a well-rounded driving experience in terms of performance. The Tribute offers you options without making things too complicated, whether you are seeking for additional power for towing and interstate trips or fuel efficiency for daily commutes.

Engine Selections

There are two engine options available for the 2011 Mazda Tribute:

I trims' 2.5-liter inline-4 engine

This 4-cylinder engine generates 171 horsepower and can be mated to either a 6-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission (available on the base i Sport FWD variant). For drivers who value low maintenance expenses and fuel efficiency, it is a good option. This engine works well in cities and provides sufficient power for the majority of daily activities, including weekend trips, errands, and commuting.

Engine: 3.0-Liter V6 (S trims)

The optional 3.0-liter V6 engine produces 240 horsepower for individuals who require additional power, particularly for highway cruising or light hauling. It comes standard in the S Grand Touring model and is only mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. This engine accelerates more quickly and is more appropriate for drivers who frequently transport people or goods or who drive over hills.

Handling and Acceleration

The 4-cylinder engine of the Tribute has a modest acceleration, but it easily manages daily driving requirements. On the other hand, the V6 performs substantially better, especially while passing on the highway or merging. Both engines are calibrated for comfort and dependability rather than aggressive driving, and even though the Tribute is not designed for speed, the power distribution is seamless.

The Tribute's mild and predictable steering makes it simple to drive in congested areas or in confined parking spots. The suspension is adjusted for a comfortable ride, efficiently absorbing the majority of bumps and rough terrain. Although handling is not as precise or sophisticated as other competitors in the same class, drivers can anticipate a calm driving experience.

Drivetrain and Transmission

The base models include a 5-speed manual gearbox, which is uncommon in the market for small SUVs these days. Those who like a more involved driving experience might find this option appealing as it allows drivers greater control over gear changes. Nonetheless, the great majority of secondhand cars come with a 6-speed automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly and complements the Tribute's laid-back driving style.

Additionally, buyers could select between all-wheel drive (AWD) and front-wheel drive (FWD). While AWD offers better traction in rain, snow, or light off-road conditions, FWD versions are more fuel-efficient and more appropriate for dry, paved roads.

Capacity for Towing

The 2011 Mazda Tribute can pull up to 3,500 pounds when the V6 engine and towing equipment are correctly installed. Because of this, it can manage small trailers, boats, or utility goods, which is not something that many small SUVs in its class can do.

Cargo Space and the Interior

The 2011 Mazda Tribute has a simple and practical interior that does the job well, even though it might not have the premium materials or cutting-edge technology of more recent SUVs. The cabin was created with functionality in mind, offering both a cozy area for travelers and adaptable cargo options for daily use.

Layout and Interior Design

Simplicity is paramount within the Tribute. The controls are positioned strategically, have clear labels, and are easily accessible by the driver, making the dashboard layout neat and simple to use. The audio controls on the center stack have big buttons and knobs that are simple to use, even when driving. The Tribute is particularly well-suited for drivers who value a simple and useful interface because of its user-friendly design.

Hard polymers make up the majority of the materials used in the cabin, yet they are strong and long-lasting. The interior surfaces are made to be easily cleaned, which is advantageous for families or individuals who regularly move work equipment, sporting goods, or dogs. The overall build quality is good.

Comfort and Seating

With supportive front seats that provide a solid driving posture and respectable visibility, the Tribute can accommodate up to five passengers in comfort. Additional features including heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and leather-trimmed seats are available on higher model levels, improving comfort on long trips and in colder locations.

Features for Storage and Convenience

The Tribute has plenty of seating as well as a variety of storage choices to help keep everyday necessities organized. You will discover:

A deep storage area on the center console

There are two cup holders in the front and back rows.

Roomy door compartments for maps and water bottles

A roomy glove box to hold papers or small objects

Additional comfort options like automatic control, controls mounted on the steering wheel, and an enhanced audio system with more speakers may also be included in higher trim levels.

Flexibility and Cargo Capacity

The Tribute's huge cargo room is one of its best features. There is sufficient space behind the back seats for groceries, baggage, or sporting goods. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats can be effortlessly lowered to provide a flat cargo floor for heavier goods, increasing the available volume to roughly 67.2 cubic feet.

The Tribute's degree of adaptability makes it perfect for a range of applications, including weekend camping excursions and moving bulkier objects like furniture, bicycles, and home renovation supplies. It is also simpler to lift large or heavy objects into the back thanks to the wide rear hatch and comparatively low loading height.

Dependability and Typical Issues

Anyone looking to buy a used car must take reliability into account, and the 2011 Mazda Tribute offers a typically dependable experience, especially when properly maintained. Although its long-term endurance may not be the best in its class, it provides a fair trade-off between performance and maintenance expenses. However, before making a choice, prospective purchasers should be aware of a few drawbacks, just like with any older vehicle.

Overview of General Reliability

The 2011 Mazda Tribute has a strong foundation in terms of parts availability and mechanical knowledge because it is based on a well-established platform that it shares with the Ford Escape. The majority of owners say that their car functions well over time, particularly those with the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, which is typically simpler and uses less fuel.

To keep the Tribute operating properly, routine maintenance is necessary, including frequent oil changes, transmission service, and brake inspections. Many of these SUVs have been known to reach 150,000 miles with few major repairs when properly maintained.

Known Problems to Be Aware of

The 2011 Tribute does have several known mechanical issues, despite its general dependability. Although not all cars have these problems, they are frequent enough to warrant mention, especially for people who are buying old cars.

1. Transmission Slipping and Hesitancy

In automatic models, some owners have complained about rough or delayed shifting, especially in cars with higher mileage. Outdated transmission fluid or worn-out transmission parts may be the cause of this. Most of the time, the problem may be resolved with a software update or prompt fluid replacement. Transmission replacement or repair may be necessary in extreme circumstances.

2. Failure of Ignition Coils (V6 Models)

It is common for the 3.0-liter V6 engine to have ignition coil issues, which can result in rough idling or engine misfires. Usually, this happens after the car has been driven a lot. The problem is normally fixed by replacing the defective coils and spark plugs, and the repair is not too difficult for a skilled mechanic.

3. Issues with the Electrical System

Minor electrical problems, like intermittent warning lights, power window abnormalities, or faulty dashboard lighting, have been reported by certain Tribute owners. These are frequently brought on by loose connections, old wiring, or fuse issues. The majority of these electrical issues are cheap to identify and fix, despite the fact that they can be annoying.

4. Wear and tear on the suspension

The suspension system's parts, including the struts, bushings, and control arms, may start to wear down as the car becomes older. Over bumps or uneven tire wear, drivers may hear clunking noises. A smoother ride can be ensured and additional damage can be avoided with timely part replacements and routine suspension examinations.

Maintenance and Repair Costs

For its class, the overall cost of maintaining a 2011 Mazda Tribute is regarded as moderate. Because of its similar architecture to the Ford Escape, replacement parts are widely accessible and reasonably priced. Labor expenses are also competitive because many small repair shops are familiar with the Tribute's configuration.

The cost of basic maintenance services like fluid flushes, brake pad replacements, and oil changes is affordable. Prospective purchasers should, however, ask for a complete car history record and, if at all feasible, have a pre-purchase inspection conducted by a reputable mechanic.