The Mazda Tribute is the overlooked counterpart to the popular Ford Escape. Despite slightly different styling, the Tribute shares a 2.3L I-4 or 3.0L V-6 with the Escape. The 2.3L offers a 5-speed manual standard on the FWD model. Both engines are available with a 4-speed automatic and 4WD. A FWD hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) version of the Tribute pairs the 2.3L engine with an electric motor and battery pack. The HEV also features a CVT that drives the front wheels. All trim levels except the HEV model get standard Roll Stability Control (RSC) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC). Options include heated leather seats, DVD entertainment system, 16-inch alloy wheels, and a towing package. Despite the updates, the Tribute lacks a 6-speed automatic like the slightly more expensive CX-7 crossover SUV, which would improve performance and fuel economy. As the Tribute is essentially a restyled Escape, there really is no compelling reason to prefer it to its Ford cousin.

The 2008 Tribute features updated styling inside and out. The most notable changes are to the front and rear fascias, but most of the sheet metal is new. Outside of a new electric power steering system, the chassis and powertrains are largely the same. A hybrid version is offered for the first time in the Tribute model.