Driving Impressions
In its previous form, the Tribute drew mixed reactions, but its sporty nature earned high marks. Tributes are quieter than they used to be, and energetic V-6 throttle response is satisfying. Automatic-transmission shifts are barely noticeable, and downshifts for passing and merging come swiftly.
Steering with a somewhat light touch, the Tribute handles adeptly. Occasionally, a floating sensation makes the driver feel less than fully connected to the highway.
Ride comfort is pleasing, but wavy pavement produces substantial up-and-down motion. The Tribute exhibits no raucous behavior and copes handily with bumps and holes.
See also:
Front Seats (Manually Operated Seats)
WARNING:
Do not modify or replace the front
seats:
Modifying or replacing the front seats
such as replacing the upholstery or
loosening any bolts is dangerous. The
front seats contain air bag
c ...
Under the Hood
Tribute buyers get the choice of a four-cylinder or V-6 engine. A manual
transmission is standard on the base model, and other models come with a
six-speed automatic transmission, which is availab ...
Exterior
The 2010 Mazda3's exterior styling builds on its predecessor's athletic
proportions by emphasizing design features. One of them is the front grille, but
Mazda may have gone a bit too far with it, ...