MAZDA TRIBUTE 2.0 GSi 4WD 5dr (2001)

The Mazda Tribute - a strictly on-road off-roader.

I bought a 4x4 because I genuinely need 4-wheel drive and it frustrates me that so many people buy cars like this when they don't really need them. Unfortunately though that is the case and it has obviously seeped into the manufacturing process as the Mazda Tribute is an example of a 4WD car that is completely impractical in an off-road environment.

There is far too much body roll for the Mazda Tribute to do a decent job on even a slightly bumpier-than-average road, let alone a rocky country track. The suspension is also unsatisfactory for any real off-road driving. There are things I like about it - the cabin is simple and practical, there is loads of room and the running costs aren't that high but I really can't forgive a 4WD car that doesn't perform in the countryside.

Overall, then, this is fine if you're an image conscious mother of more-than-one who wants to show off on the school run and has plenty of money to waste on precious fossil fuels, but for anyone who needs this car in the countryside, avoid.