| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| Not recommended. A badge-engineered sister car to the Ford Maverick, although with a more interesting radiator grille. Big and tough-looking but has a plasticky cabin and very limited off-road talents. |
| Handling |
 |
| Comfort |
|
| Quality & Reliability |
|
| Performance |
|
| Roominess |
 |
| Running Costs |
|
| Value for Money |
|
| Stereo/Sat Nav |
|
| Best Models |
| 4x4 versions |
| Worst Models |
| 2 wheel drive version |
| Replacement |
| 2008 |
|
| Road Test |
| The Tribute is one of those curious branding decisions that big companies make every so often. It's a rebranded Ford Maverick with the same plus and minus points: big, spacious and car-like on the road; cheap-feeling, choppy riding and all-but useless off-road. None of which is exactly keeping with the zoom, zoom corporate message. 2.0 litre petrol engine is loud and lacks performance unless used hard, the 3.0 V6 option has plenty of go but gargles petrol and comes as standard with a dull-witted four speed automatic gearbox that really saps performance. You should also be aware that the base model is only two wheel drive, which would prove very embarrassing if you ever got one stuck in the mud. |
| Positive Points |
- Well engineered family 4x4 that's good value
- Room for five and their luggage
- Good to drive on-road; smooth, lively V6
|
| Negative Points |
- Looks bland and lacks identity
- Noise levels rise noticeably at speed
- V6 is thirsty with high servicing costs
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