NOTE: Pricing based on data collected November 2008. Costs of hybridization and forced features are UCS estimates based on information available on manufacturer websites.
See full Hybrid Scorecard methodology
Vehicle Summary
Mazda introduced the Tribute Hybrid in model year 2008. The midsize SUV seats five people and the four-wheel-drive (4WD) model gets a combined EPA estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg—four mpg lower than the 2WD version. The Mazda Tribute Hybrid 4WD is essentially the third “sister” in a set of Ford hybrid SUV triplets, as its design and drivetrain are based on those of the 4WD Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner hybrids and thus has a comparable environmental performance. It is a full hybrid, offering electric-only operation under certain conditions, idle stop/start, power assist, and regenerative braking.
Environmental Score
The Tribute Hybrid 4WD achieves a 25 percent reduction in global warming emissions compared with the conventional Tribute 4WD. This matches the performance of its sister vehicles, the Ford Escape Hybrid 4WD and Mercury Mariner Hybrid 4WD. The Tribute Hybrid 4WD earns an EPA air pollution score of 9.5 out of 10 for smog-forming emissions, and this overall performance earns the Tribute Hybrid an Environmental Score of 6.9.
Scorecard Environmental Score methodology
Hybrid Value
Despite a good Environmental Score, the hybridization cost of $5,805 for the Tribute Hybrid 4WD gives it a Hybrid Value of “Low.” Ford can do far better, as it has shown with the “High Value”-rated Fusion Hybrid. As the hybrid market becomes more crowded, Ford needs to show it can provide the maximum benefits of its impressive hybrid technology at a competitive price across the board. The Mazda label may be an ideal place for Ford to really focus on hybrid value, as the brand claims to stand for “uncompromising quality, outstanding value, and an exhilarating driving experience.” Ford would need to reduce the Tribute’s hybrid premium by $1,590 for it to qualify for “High Value” status.
Scorecard Hybrid Value methodology
Forced Features
Mazda offers the Tribute Hybrid 4WD with standard features similar to the conventional mid-level Tribute 4WD, rather than the base model. As a result, Tribute Hybrid 4WD buyers must spend more than $1,500 on features they may not want. This gives the Tribute Hybrid 4WD a Forced Features rating of “$$.” Mazda could make the Tribute Hybrid 4WD more accessible by making these forced features optional. These additional features are: solar-controlled tinted glass on windshield and front windows; steering-wheel-mounted audio controls; leather-wrapped steering wheel; SIRIUS Satellite Radio; dual automatic climate control; privacy-tint glass on rear door; and roof rack with crossbars.
Scorecard Forced Features methodology
Hybrid Scorecard Home
Additional Info
Visit the Who’s Got Hybrids section to read comments and stories from actual hybrid owners.
Visit the Reviews page to see what popular automotive websites think of this hybrid.
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