The Mazda Tribute II 2.5i Automatic, produced from 2008 to 2011, represented a significant iteration of Mazda’s compact SUV offering. Falling within the second generation of the Tribute (introduced in 2007), the 2.5i trim served as a mid-range option, positioned between the base 2.3-liter model and the more powerful 3.0-liter V6. Built in collaboration with Ford – sharing a platform with the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner – the Tribute II aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability within the increasingly competitive SUV segment. This particular variant, equipped with the 2.5-liter inline-four engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, was geared towards buyers prioritizing a comfortable driving experience and reasonable running costs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | Tribute |
| Generation | Tribute II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5i (171 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 171 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 232 Nm @ 4500 rpm (171.11 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | L5-VE |
| Engine displacement | 2488 cm3 (151.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1514 kg (3337.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 889 l (31.39 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1903 l (67.2 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Length | 4442 mm (174.88 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2065 mm (81.3 in.) |
| Height | 1783 mm (70.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2619 mm (103.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1542 mm (60.71 in.) |
| Rear track | 1529 mm (60.2 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 213 mm (8.39 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Tribute II 2.5i Automatic is the Mazda-developed L5-VE 2.5-liter inline-four engine. This engine utilizes a cast iron block with an aluminum cylinder head, incorporating a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing a balance between efficiency and performance. The engine’s 9.7:1 compression ratio contributes to its respectable power output. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, a significant upgrade from the four-speed units found in earlier Tribute models. This transmission offered smoother shifts and improved fuel economy. The six-speed configuration allowed the engine to operate more efficiently at highway speeds, reducing engine revs and improving overall refinement.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5i Automatic offered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the 171 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque provided adequate power for everyday driving situations. Acceleration from a standstill was reasonable, though not brisk, and highway merging and passing required some planning. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, sometimes resulting in a slight delay in response. Compared to the 3.0-liter V6 Tribute, the 2.5i felt noticeably less powerful, but it offered a significant improvement in fuel economy. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, but lacked the all-weather capability of the available four-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5i trim generally included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with auxiliary input, and keyless entry. Upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather available as an upgrade. Higher trim levels, such as the Grand Touring, added features like a sunroof, upgraded audio system, and automatic climate control. Optional extras for the 2.5i included alloy wheels, a rear cargo organizer, and a towing package.
Chassis & Braking
The Tribute II utilized a unibody construction, providing a good balance of rigidity and weight. The front suspension employed an independent McPherson strut design, while the rear suspension featured an independent multi-link setup. This configuration delivered a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The relatively modest weight of the 2.5i model, compared to the V6 variants, contributed to its balanced handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mazda Tribute II 2.5i Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable SUV. Reviewers praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and improved fuel economy compared to the V6 models. However, some criticized its lack of outright performance and its somewhat bland styling. Compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Tribute offered a more aggressive price point, but lacked the same level of brand recognition and resale value. The 2.5i Automatic represented a sweet spot in the Tribute lineup for buyers prioritizing value and efficiency over performance.
Legacy
The Mazda Tribute II, and specifically the 2.5i Automatic variant, has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The L5-VE engine is known for its durability, and the six-speed automatic transmission has generally held up well over time. Common issues include minor oil leaks and occasional sensor failures, but these are typically inexpensive to repair. Today, the Tribute II 2.5i Automatic represents an affordable and practical option for buyers seeking a compact SUV with a proven track record. Its blend of fuel efficiency, practicality, and reasonable running costs continues to make it a viable choice in the used car market.
