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 front-wheel-drive (FWD) model gets a combined EPA estimated fuel economy of 32 mpg. The Mazda Tribute Hybrid FWD is essentially the third “sister” in a set of Ford hybrid SUV triplets, as its design and drivetrain are based on those of the FWD 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 FWD achieves a 28 percent reduction in global warming emissions compared with the conventional Tribute FWD. This matches the performance of its sister vehicles, the Ford Escape Hybrid FWD and Mercury Mariner Hybrid FWD, and is significantly better than the other compact SUV on the market that carries a hybrid label, the Saturn Vue Hybrid, which gets only a 21 percent reduction. The Vue Hybrid earns an EPA air pollution score of just 6 out of 10 for smog-forming emissions, whereas the Tribute Hybrid FWD merits an impressive 9.5. This solid overall performance earns the Tribute Hybrid FWD an Environmental Score of 7.4.
Scorecard Environmental Score methodology
Hybrid Value
Despite a good environmental performance, the hybridization cost of $5,810 for the Tribute Hybrid FWD gives it a Hybrid Value of “Medium”—and it rates at the lower-end of the “Medium” spectrum. 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 FWD with standard features similar to the conventional mid-level Tribute FWD, rather than the base model. As a result, Tribute Hybrid FWD buyers must spend more than $1,500 on features they may not want. This gives the Tribute Hybrid FWD a Forced Features rating of “$$.” Mazda could make the Tribute Hybrid FWD 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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