2002 Mazda Tribute
Should You Buy a 2002 Mazda Tribute?
The 2002 Mazda Tribute is a compact SUV that combines practicality with a spirited driving experience. With a front-wheel-drive system and a robust 3.0L V6 engine producing 200 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque, it offers a balanced performance for both city driving and highway cruising. The vehicle's MSRP of $21,485 makes it an accessible option for those seeking a reliable family vehicle. However, potential buyers should be aware of its average fuel economy of 19.0 MPG combined, which may not be the most efficient in its class.
Despite its strengths, the Tribute has garnered a notable number of complaints, particularly related to engine and cooling issues, with 68 complaints specifically about the gasoline engine. While the reliability score of 93.3/100 indicates a generally dependable vehicle, the presence of 24 crash incidents and 29 fire incidents should prompt buyers to conduct thorough inspections and consider the vehicle's maintenance history before purchase.
The 2002 Mazda Tribute is best suited for budget-conscious families or individuals seeking a reliable compact SUV for daily commuting and occasional road trips.
Strengths
- +Spacious interior with seating for five
- +Strong V6 engine performance
- +Good reliability score of 93.3/100
- +Affordable price point for a compact SUV
- +Decent cargo space for everyday use
Weaknesses
- -Average fuel economy at 19.0 MPG combined
- -Significant number of engine-related complaints
- -Limited advanced safety features compared to newer models
- -Potential for higher maintenance costs due to engine issues
- -Front-wheel drive may not be ideal for off-road conditions
Known Issues (NHTSA Data)
The 2002 Mazda Tribute has reported a total of 502 complaints to the NHTSA, with a significant focus on engine-related issues, particularly within the first 40,000 miles. Common complaints include problems with the engine and cooling systems, as well as issues with airbags and hydraulic brakes. While the vehicle has a solid reliability score, the frequency of engine-related complaints suggests that prospective buyers should be vigilant regarding these potential issues.
Performance
- Horsepower
- –
- Torque
- –
- Engine
- 3 L
- Cylinders
- V6
- Transmission
- Automatic 4-spd
- Drive Type
- AWD/4WD
Efficiency
- MPG Combined
- 18
- Fuel Type
- Regular Gasoline
Dimensions
- Length
- 173.2 in
- Width
- 70.9 in
- Height
- 67.3 in
- Wheelbase
- 103.1 in
- Curb Weight
- 3,091 lbs
- Ground Clearance
- –
Capacity
- Doors
- 4
- Seating
- –
- Cargo
- –
- Max Cargo
- –
- Max Towing
- –
- Max Payload
- –