The Good
The 2001 Mazda Tribute offers a blend of practicality and fun. Its responsive steering and available V6 engine deliver a more engaging driving experience (emotional appeal). Simultaneously, its ample cargo space, affordable price point, and generally acceptable reliability make it a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers (practical appeal). Comfort is adequate for its class.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2001 Mazda Tribute include rust, especially in areas with road salt. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic, have been reported. Check for oil leaks and ensure regular maintenance has been performed. The interior materials can feel cheap and dated compared to more modern SUVs.
2001 Mazda Tribute: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L Inline-4: Offered in the DX and LX trims.
- 3.0L V6: Available in the LX and ES trims.
- Horsepower:
- 2.0L Inline-4: Approximately 130 hp.
- 3.0L V6: Approximately 200 hp.
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 2.0L Inline-4: 23 mpg city / 28 mpg highway.
- 3.0L V6: 18 mpg city / 23 mpg highway.
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 2.0L Inline-4: Around 10-11 seconds.
- 3.0L V6: Around 8-9 seconds.
- Towing Capacity:
- Up to 3,500 lbs with the V6 engine and proper equipment. The 4-cylinder models had a lower towing capacity.
- Trim Level Features:
- DX (Base): Basic features, manual transmission standard (automatic optional), cloth seats, AM/FM radio.
- LX (Mid-Level): Added features like power windows and locks, upgraded stereo, and available automatic transmission.
- ES (Top-Level): Leather seats, sunroof, premium audio system, alloy wheels, and usually the V6 engine.
2001 Mazda Tribute Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2001 |
Make | Mazda |
Model | Tribute |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | United States |
Manufacturing City | FLAT ROCK |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | 3292 pounds |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
Overall Height | - |
Overall Length | - |
Overall Width | - |
Wheelbase Length | - |
Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
Engine | AJD |
Engine Size | 3L |
Engine Cylinders | 6 |
Transmission | - |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
Transmission Speeds | - |
Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | - |
Steering Type | - |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $21,225 |
Invoice Price | $19,834 |
Delivery Charges | $540 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2001 Mazda Tribute Have?
How long will the 2001 Mazda Tribute last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2001 Mazda Tribute Prices and Market Value
2001 Mazda Tribute Cost of Ownership
2001 Mazda Tribute Fuel Efficiency
2001 Mazda Tribute Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2001 Mazda Tribute Recalls & Defects
Wheels:hubcap/Cover
Visibility:windshield Wiper/Washer:linkages
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery
Equipment:other:owners/Service/Other Manual
Steering: Steering Wheel/Handle BAR
Vehicle Speed Control
Seat Belts:front:buckle Assembly
Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
Latches/Locks/Linkages:hatchback/liftgate:lock
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
Engine and Engine Cooling
Vehicle Speed Control:cables
Structure:frame and Members
Suspension:front:wheel Bearing
2001 Mazda Tribute Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2001 Mazda Tribute Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Alternatives to consider include the Toyota RAV4 (for superior reliability and resale value), the Honda CR-V (for a balance of practicality and reliability), and even the Ford Escape (if you want a similar vehicle with potentially easier parts availability due to higher production numbers). If budget is a major constraint and you find a well-maintained Tribute, it could be a viable option, but prioritizing reliability, the RAV4 or CR-V are often better choices. The Subaru Forester of the same era offers all-wheel drive as a standard feature, which could be advantageous depending on the buyer's needs.
Ranks #448 SUV
1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
448 | 2001 Mazda Tribute | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2001 Mazda Tribute a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
deedorn on December 5, 2020
249,000 miles - still going greatA surprise in reliability. Bought a new 2001 Tribute DX 6cyl w/ 4x4. Haven't bought another car yet, 20 years later. Agree with others that little things or expected things happen after 20 years. Fuel pump, driver's side window motor needed replacing, interior door panel's cloth came unglued, fog lights don't currently work, windshield replaced when cracked from New Mexico rocks and drivers, engine seems to be heating oil leaks...but I do religious oil changes and fluids and the car keeps running. I've driven it cross country 12 times, New Mexico to Florida. Beautiful and never a break down. This car is a big part of me and my mobility, but sadly I have to look for a new car next couple months. I want another Mazda or Toyota, I'll never go back to owning a car for 50,000 miles and then selling. What an experience this has been!
Tribute lover on May 18, 2020
Best car I've ownedBought used. Had to fix 02 sensors but knew that. Inexpensive to fix. Comfortable. Love this SUV. Will be looking for a new one real soon.
ILIK2SNG on March 11, 2020
To be as old as it is, it is in great shape!I love it! I bought it as a backup. But it’s being driven more than my primary car. The kids love it too. It’s clean, reliable, and comfortable.
brokenh07 on November 30, 2019
love this SUVThis car met my needs and is easy to get in and out of, drive great don't have to fight with it to go straight best car I have owned
Ramzieh on November 15, 2019
Very great for commuting and it’s very spacey.It’s so great on the freeway, you get a clear view of the streets since it’s high about the ground. Comfortable seats and AC is pretty good as well.
Ray on April 9, 2019
Not a good VehicleVery costly to maintain. Would not buy again. Always seems to breakdown. Should have been designed better. Do not purchase this vehicle please.Thank you very much
2Credit on August 1, 2018
Great All-Around SUVRuns great and has not mechanical or automotive issues. This vehicle has been well maintained over the years and has many more years of life ahead of it.
Maria on January 2, 2018
Best old car you could ownThis car was not the best looking since it was very old, but the drive was awesome. Very good in Canada's winter madness, never slide, there was not enough snow to stop it. Drives like a tank, in a good way. Heavy, reliable, fast and smooth drive. Too bad they don't make it anymore. Looks like a small SUV on the outside but it has tons of space inside, and easy to park.
IsabellaMB on October 20, 2017
Loved My CarI had my Mazda Tribute for the past 3 years (bought it with 166,000 miles on it) and the only reason why I don?t have it anymore is because of an accident I was in. Never had a problem with it other than with smaller things, and an Evap valve a local dealership broke after I had a recall done, so it wasn?t my cars fault. I?m still mournful over the loss of my Mazda Tribute and I was completely okay after my bad accident so safety is great too! Only bruises were left on me. I highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a reliable SUV.
tnoah1 on July 3, 2017
I wish a could afford a brand new one !I bought this car at 160,000 miles, and never regretted it. Great Gas Mileage, Dependable, and smaller repairs were never super expensive. No center console/arm rest in the model I owned really sucked, but what sucked even more was that it did not come with fog lights, or cruise control!