New Car Overview of the 2006 Mazda Tribute Compact Sport Utility Vehicle

Description: Compact Sport Utility Vehicle
Base MSRP Range: $20,115 - $24,700
Invoice Price Range: $18,826 - $23,102
Where built: USA

Even the sport-utility vehicle from Mazda is fun to drive. Built on the chassis of a front-wheel-drive (FWD) car, Tribute has a tightly tuned suspension and a forceful engine that set up sporty driving traits.

Tribute first appeared in Mazda's line of 2001 but last year it gained a new 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine worth 153 hp for the base trim, Tribute i. Tribute s edition continues in 2006 stocking a 3.0-liter V6 rated at 200 hp.

Safety gear like ABS with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) comes with either trim, and a full-time four-wheel drive (4WD) system with active torque control coupling (ATCC) is optional.

The line of Mazda, that "Zoom-Zoom" brand from Japan, expands in 2006 with more sport-tuned vehicles added. Mazda's MX-5 Miata roadster evolves in a new design with more power below the hood, while new Mazda5 emerges as a multi-activity vehicle with ride traits of a sporty car but the cabin of a SUV with three rows of seats for six riders.