The Mercury Mariner had its turn, and now the wait is finally over for the last Japanese automaker to enter the hybrid vehicle market. While it might have been more exciting to be reviewing the CX-7h, the CX-9h, or even something called the CX-11, Mazda is dipping their toe into green waters with a hybrid version of their Tribute (c’mon Mazda, we want a hybrid cuv!). Guessing this will be the last automaker to introduce a small hybrid suv based on the Ford Escape Hybrid, but only time will tell.
So, what does the new 2008 Mazda Tribute HEV look like (Hybrid Electric Vehicle)? Well, have you seen the 2007 Mazda Tribute? Now add a new grille, different headlamps, revised bumpers, some body side molding, and a few other revisions. Not quite what we were expecting from a vehicle that’s been around since 2001, but for now we’ll take any hybrids we can get.
The ‘08 Tribute hybrid is considered a “full hybrid”, which means it can run solely off electric power, and reportedly you’ll be able to “zoom zoom” up to speeds as high as 25 mph before the gas engine kicks in. In terms of gas mileage, expect about 34/30 (city/hwy.) with the 2WD model and 29/27 if you opt for the 4WD version. This is all accomplished via a 2.3 liter, 4 cylinder engine combined with a 70 KW electric motor. Total horsepower? 155.
So, where can you buy a 2008 Mazda Tribute Hybrid? Although it debuted at the Detroit Auto Show way back in January, according to the official website, “The 2008 Tribute HEV is being made in a production run of about 350 vehicles and sold in select areas of California.”. And assuming you live on the west coast, want one, and can find one…expect to pay $25,000 - $30,000 depending on trim level (touring / grand touring) and drivetrain.
Get a free quote on a new Mazda Tribute hybrid!
Basics:
2008 MSRP: fwd: $20,315 4wd: $22,065
transmission options: 4-speed auto; 5-speed manual
mileage (city/hwy): 29/34 mpg
range between fill-ups: 460 - 545 miles
Main Features:
Rollover Stability Control
Driver/passenger airbags
Folding 60/40 rear seats
Privacy glass
AM/FM radio, CD with 4 speakers
Remote keyless entry
Anti-Theft SecuriLock engine immobilizer
Tire pressure monitoring system
Heated mirrors
Side curtain airbags - first and second rows
Specs:
2.3-liter I-4 Atkinson cycle engine, 153hp @ 5800rpm & electric motor 94hp @ 5000rpm
155 horsepower
16 gallon fuel capacity (62 liters) / Regular Unleaded
4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, Electronic Brake Force Distribution
Electronic power steering - rack-and-pinion with power assist
16-in x 7-in aluminum alloy wheels with 235/70R16 all season T-rated tires
2008 Mazda Tribute Hybrid Reviews and Information Sites:
[…] the past year, our 2008 Hybrid Tribute review has been on of the most viewed pages on hybridsuv.com, so there is a great deal of interest in this […]