The Mazda Tribute II 2.5i, produced from 2008 to 2011, represented a significant update to Mazda’s compact SUV offering. Part of the collaborative platform shared with the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner, the Tribute II aimed to provide a more refined and fuel-efficient option within the crowded SUV segment. The 2.5i variant, equipped with the 2.5-liter inline-four engine producing 171 horsepower, served as the mid-range offering in the Tribute II lineup, positioned between the base 2.0-liter model and potential higher-performance trims depending on the market. It was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a balance of practicality, fuel economy, and reasonable performance for daily driving.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | Tribute |
| Generation | Tribute II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5i (171 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 171 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.7 Hp/l |
| 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 | 1484 kg (3271.66 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 (Back) track | 1529 mm (60.2 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 213 mm (8.39 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual 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 is the Mazda L5-VE engine, a 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine utilizes a cast iron block with an aluminum cylinder head, a common configuration for balancing durability and weight. The L5-VE features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine’s 9.7:1 compression ratio strikes a balance between efficiency and performance. The 5-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a relatively direct connection to the engine. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a blend of acceleration and highway cruising, though it wasn’t particularly sporty in its feel.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5i variant of the Mazda Tribute II offered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. With 171 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque, acceleration was adequate for most everyday driving situations, but it wasn’t a particularly quick vehicle. The manual transmission allowed for some driver engagement, but the gear ratios weren’t optimized for spirited driving. Compared to potential V6-powered versions of the Tribute or its Ford/Mercury counterparts, the 2.5i felt noticeably less powerful, especially when fully loaded or climbing hills. However, the 2.5i offered a more fuel-efficient alternative, making it a practical choice for commuters and families.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5i trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system with CD player, and cloth upholstery. Safety features like anti-lock brakes (ABS) were also standard. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and side airbags. The interior design was functional and straightforward, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Dashboard materials were generally durable but not particularly upscale.
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 aimed to deliver a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this class of vehicle. The electric power steering offered light and easy steering effort, making it convenient for maneuvering in tight spaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mazda Tribute II 2.5i was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable SUV. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reasonable fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the power of competing V6 options. Compared to the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner with the same 2.5-liter engine, the Tribute II often benefited from Mazda’s reputation for slightly more engaging driving dynamics. Fuel economy figures were competitive for the segment, typically ranging around 23 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.
Legacy
The Mazda Tribute II 2.5i, while not a standout performer, proved to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The L5-VE engine is generally considered to be a robust powerplant, with good long-term reliability when properly maintained. In the used car market, the 2.5i variant represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and practical SUV. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, timing belt replacement (if applicable, depending on model year), and inspection of the suspension components. Overall, the Tribute II 2.5i remains a viable option for those seeking a dependable and economical compact SUV.
