A Look At The Mazda Hybrid Tribute

The Mazda-Ford Effect

With its partner Ford paving the hybrid way, Mazda unleashes the new 2008 Mazda Tribute Hybrid. The SUV promises state-of-the-art features, luxurious style and cost-effectiveness. Mazda has taken advantage of the technology that Ford has been mastering in recent years. This Mazda hybrid shares some of the traits which made Ford hybrids very popular at the same time presenting a unique style and power of its own.

Specifications

The 2008 Mazda Tribute Hybrid has two electric motors. One serves to control the wheels while the other collaborates with the gasoline engine to start it as well as control the transmission ratio. The hybrid version has the same 2.3-liter four-cylinder gas engine as its conventional counterpart.

Miles per gallon is estimated to be around 35 which is almost as good as the 200-horsepower V-6 standard model. The Tribute Hybrid runs on the Atkinson cycle unlike the standard which runs on the Otto cycle. The Atkinson cycle is more efficient since it requires less fuel and air. The engine horsepower may not be as much but the dual electric motors immediately function to remedy the condition.

The hybrid SUV is able to run on electricity alone, gasoline alone or a combination of the two. It uses a variable transmission system called eCVT or Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission which automatically determines which system should be used when cruising. Slow speeds indicate that the Tribute should run on electric motors while towing and running on the highway activate the gasoline engine.

The Outside

The 2008 Mazda Tribute Hybrid has a rugged and casual appearance ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The headlights, taillights and fog lights have a commanding sense with two trim levels namely Touring and Grand Touring. The windows ascend towards the back of the SUV which provides a modern look. The 16-inch alloy wheels are standard. Additional accessories can be added to the exterior as well. The next conventional Tribute is expected to appear similarly.

The Inside

Five passengers can sit comfortably in the Tribute hybrid. The back seat is split 60/40 with a storage console at the center which is sufficient enough to hold a laptop. Space for equipment, gadgets and other items is also big enough at 30 cubic feet or 66 cubic feet with the back seat folded. On the driver seat, the Tribute provides great visibility and ground clearance. There is also a rear window that opens independently at the tailgate.

More Information

The Mazda Tribute is bound for release late in 2007 with price ranging from $26,000 up. The Tribute HEV is considered as a full hybrid since it can run solely on electric power at an average of 25 mpg. The SUV has also passed emission standards with flying colors.

Both the Touring and Grand Touring trim levels offer the same transition in four modes: all-electric, gas-only, gas-electric and battery pack charge. The Mazda hybrid automatically shifts modes depending on the cruising requirements. Coasting and idling will instantly shut down the engine with regeneration braking.