Mazda Tribute

This is a twin of the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner. The 2008 freshening includes standard electronic stability control and curtain air bags. It also improves ride and fuel economy, but handling and braking capabilities have decreased. A hybrid version is also available, although it doesn't offer stability control yet and is sold only in California. The interior is roomy, and the rear seat is spacious. The Ford-supplied 3.0-liter V6 serves up adequate acceleration but unimpressive fuel economy of 19 mpg overall. Reliability of the V6 has been average, but the Escape V6 that we tested scored too low in our testing to be recommended.