The Mazda Tribute was released on the American market for the 2001 model year, but buyers did not get a taste of the hybrid edition until 2008. By that time, the Mazda Tribute Hybrid was among a large group of already established hybrid SUVs. Though the timing did not bode well for the Tribute Hybrid, critics have raved about the availability of 4WD - no other hybrid SUV includes that feature - and impressive fuel economy (34 city MPG and 31 highway MPG). However, there are naysayers in the bunch that believe that the Mazda Tribute Hybrid is essentially a mishmash of other hybrid compact SUVs on the road. Mazda refutes that claim and points out that the gas-powered Tribute has been around since 2001, and the Tribute Hybrid takes its cues from its brother, only implementing pieces of recently developed hybrid technology into the current Tribute body.

With a rugged exterior that is reminiscent of a tour vehicle for Jurassic Park, the Mazda Tribute Hybrid has enough toughness to appeal to the outdoorsy type and elegance to draw in those that appreciate a refined SUV. With a built-in roof rack for luggage or sports equipment, it is clear that Mazda does not intend for the Tribute Hybrid to stand in the corner. Rather, with the implementation of 4WD, Mazda proves that a hybrid model can handle demanding terrain both on and off-road. With the latest in technological gadgets, the interior is an impressive blend of comfort, convenience, and entertainment.

The Mazda Tribute Hybrid gains its power from a two-mode 2.5L I4 that produces up to 153 horsepower. The only drawback for buyers bumping up to the 4WD trim is that the fuel economy slumps to 29 city MPG and 27 highway MPG - still notable numbers for an SUV. The two-mode engine is able to run on pure electricity, solely gasoline, or a combination of the two. Usually, the electric motor will run the model up to 25 mph. Then, when extra power is needed, the gasoline engine will kick in, or the compact SUV will implement both to save fuel. Regenerative braking adds to the lessening of fuel consumption by producing electricity and storing it in the battery every time the brake pedal is pressed.

Though originally the Mazda Tribute Hybrid was sold to only 300 consumers in a select area of California, the maker is releasing the model to the public now that it has made a name for itself. No changes are scheduled for the upcoming model year, but the wealth of safety features should be enough to draw families with young children. Not only that, the EPA ranked the Tribute Hybrid 2WD as the number four most fuel efficient model on the market for 2008, quite an impressive feat for an SUV. This alone should be enough for the model to make a splash in the auto industry.