Mazda finally involved in the hybrid scene of the car, providing the same size & convenience as the regular Tribute but with the added environmental benefits of a hybrid power train. It is basically a re-skinned Ford Escape Hybrid, using the same power train and many of the same interior facilites.The Mercury Mariner also take up or borrow from the Escape Hybrid, so hybrid shoppers can choose from three flavors of the same vehicle. In terms of style, the Mazda Tribute  Hybrid goes against the grain of the rest of the brand’s model line because of its traditional standing apart from the sleek and sporty look of the other Mazda cars and crossovers. A decidedly low-key model, Mazda’s first hybrid vehicle was apparently based on the ease of adapting the Escape’s drive train, rather than an effort to create some buzz and excitement for the Mazda brand.

Mazda’s first Tribute hybrid  car is available in two trims, the Touring and Grand Touring and it features a new 2.5 liter with 153 horsepower four-cylinder engine, which is mated to an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission. A 70 kilowatt electric motor works in combination with the gas engine and cruise up to 25 mph on electricity alone. The Vehicle System Controller (VSC) utilizes advanced software to ensure smooth transition between the electric motor and gasoline engine. The electronically controlled, continuously variable transmission generates and transfers power to the wheels, with no noticeable shift points. Fuel economy of the Tribute Hybrid is near the top of the list of most fuel efficient SUVs. The Tribute Hybrid is seen in limited quantities in California and competes with the Saturn Vue Hybrid and Ford Escape Hybrid.

Safety

Standard safety features of the car includes  4 wheel anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake force Distribution which help to maintain steering control while braking and prevent wheel lockup. Standard dual front airbags and front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags with rollover sensor protect both rows of passengers in a collision. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) continuously keep monitoring tire pressure and alerts the driver to any significant changes.