The Mazda Tribute received a freshening for 2008 that updated its exterior and interior styling, but the qualities that have made the Tribute a favorite with owners and critics remain. The Tribute is the right size with the kind of fuel economy today’s families need.

Reviewers recognize and praise the value, fuel economy, utility and standard safety features of the Mazda Tribute. First, it’s affordable, starting at under $20,000 MSRP. The Tribute's 22/28 mpg rating places it near the top of its class in a year when gas prices have reached new record highs. Technically a compact SUV, the Tribute hauls like a larger vehicle and offers convenient features like a separate rear tailgate and window. Tribute also has the up-to-date safety features families want in their primary car.  The 2008 Mazda Tribute features an antilock brake system (ABS) with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). It also has dynamic stability control (DSC) to reduce torque and apply braking to minimize oversteering during emergency reactions, roll stability control (RSC) and a traction control system (TCS).

Tribute i models feature a 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve inline four-cylinder engine, generating 153 hp and 152 lb/ft of torque. Tribute s models are equipped with a 3.0-liter DOHC V6 that puts out 200 hp and 193 lb/ft of torque. The Tribute comes standard with a four-speed automatic transmission. A five-speed manual transmission is available on i Sport models. The Tribute comes standard in front-wheel drive, but Active Torque Control Coupling Electronic four-wheel drive is available for any trim.

Tribute i 2WD models with the inline four and manual transmission get an EPA mileage estimate of 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The same model with the automatic transmission should get 20/26 city/highway while the 2WD model with the V6 engine should net 18/24 city/highway. Four-wheel drive models with the base engine are expected to net 19/24, and those with the V6 should get 17/22 city/highway.

The Tribute is equipped with standard electric power-assist rack-and-pinion steering, front independent MacPherson strut suspension and a rear multi-link suspension. The vehicle features power-assisted front disc and rear drum brakes. "One of the dynamic changes made to the Tribute in its refresh was a new electric power steering system that delivers surprisingly good road feel and response," says Edmunds.com. "Handling is respectable with the SUV remaining flat through corners and composed in quick transitions. Ride quality is relatively smooth, making this SUV a suitable choice for commuting or hauling the family around."

"The handling is steady, tight and nimble around town. The ride on a return suspension is excellent," said NewCarTestDrive.com of the Tribute. “It's a joy to drive and is at the top of its class." The reviewers continued their praise noting, "The Tribute is an agile and powerful little SUV. It handles better than other sport utilities. Its sharp steering allows the driver to guide it precisely. At high speeds, the Tribute is supremely stable. Handling response is relatively taut without that mushiness that characterizes SUVs with big off-road tires and long-travel suspensions."

The interior has been totally redesigned to be convenient while affording as much comfort as possible for a $20,000 SUV, and that’s plenty," concluded NewCarTestDrive.com.

Tribute Grand Touring trims feature a seven-speaker, 6-CD audio system, as well as standard keyless entry. The newest Tribute features up to 66.3 cubic feet of storage space with its rear seats folded down.

The Tribute earns four out of five stars for driver safety and a top score of five stars for passenger safety in frontal crash tests. In side crash tests, it gets top scores of five stars for both front- and rear-seat safety. The 2008 Mazda Tribute is equipped with advanced front airbags for driver and passenger, as well as side airbags and side-curtain airbags.

"The Mazda Tribute delivers an excellent value for people who want the image and versatility of a sport utility coupled with refinement and better on-road handling than truck-based utilities,” concludes NewCarTestDrive.com.

The 2008 Mazda Tribute is one of the best choices in a compact SUV for the family car mission. It’s big enough to carry the kids’ stuff. It is fun to drive and it won’t leave you bankrupt at the gas pump.