2001 Mazda Tribute Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Mazda Tribute's width ranges from 1800 mm (70.9 inches) to 1825 mm (71.9 inches), depending on trim and equipment such as mirrors or body moldings. While this 25 mm (approximately 1 inch) variance is minor, it can slightly influence handling dynamics by affecting stability during cornering. A slightly wider track generally improves road grip. For parking, this small width difference has minimal impact, as the overall size remains compact enough for urban environments and typical parking spaces.

The curb weight of the Mazda Tribute ranges from 1425 kg to 1590 kg (3141 to 3507 lbs), depending on the configuration, trim level, and drivetrain. The maximum permissible weight ranges from 1915 kg to 2075 kg (4222 to 4574 lbs), accommodating passengers and cargo safely. The relatively light curb weight for an SUV of this size helps improve fuel efficiency, acceleration, and handling. It also supports decent payload capacity without excessively straining the engine or suspension, contributing to balanced daily usability.

The Mazda Tribute offers a versatile luggage capacity that suits daily family needs and adventurous trips. With all seats upright, the trunk provides between 368 and 457 liters (13 to 16.1 cubic feet) of cargo space, ample for groceries or small luggage. When folding the rear seats down, the available cargo volume expands significantly to approximately 2245 liters (79.3 cubic feet), enabling transport of bulky items such as furniture, sports gear, or large travel bags.

A standard home garage typically has an interior width of about 2400 to 2700 mm (94.5 to 106.3 inches) and a depth of around 6000 mm (236 inches or 19.7 feet). The Mazda Tribute's length of 4395 mm (173 inches or 14.4 feet) and width up to 1825 mm (72 inches or 6 feet) make it well-suited to fit comfortably within these dimensions, including clearance for opening doors and storage. Its height of up to 1765 mm (69.5 inches) also suits most garage ceiling heights, providing a practical fit for daily parking and storage.

The height variation between 1710 mm and 1765 mm (approximately 67.3 to 69.5 inches) in the Mazda Tribute corresponds to different trims or optional equipment such as roof rails and tires. A higher stance typically enhances road visibility and ground clearance, benefiting off-road capability and urban driving over obstacles. However, increased height can slightly raise the vehicle's center of gravity, potentially affecting handling in fast cornering. Overall, this range balances comfort, practicality, and stability.

The 2001 Mazda Tribute was introduced as a collaborative model closely related to the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner. Since it was the first generation for the Tribute, it did not have a Mazda-specific predecessor. Compared to previous small SUV offerings from Mazda, which were limited, the Tribute's size marked a new entry into the competitive compact SUV segment. Its dimensions fit neatly between smaller crossovers and larger SUVs, delivering a practical size for families needing versatility without bulk.

The Mazda Tribute typically comes with 16-inch rims, sized 6.5J x 16 ET 50 or 7J x 16 ET 45, paired with tires sized 215/70 R16 or 235/70 R16. Larger width tires like 235 mm improve road grip and stability, especially in cornering and different weather conditions, at the potential cost of slightly firmer ride smoothness. The tire profile (70 sidewall height ratio) balances comfort and responsiveness. This configuration supports the Tribute's focus on family-oriented utility and everyday drivability.

The Mazda Tribute competes in the compact SUV class with contemporaries like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape. In terms of size, its length of 4395 mm (173 inches) and width around 1800–1825 mm (71 inches) place it competitively in this segment—neither the smallest nor the largest. Its cargo capacity is comparable or slightly favorable, especially with rear seats folded. Feature-wise, it offers a good blend of comfort, practicality, and safety typical of early 2000s compact SUVs, often praised for responsive handling compared to boxier rivals.

The maximum permissible weight for the Tribute ranges from 1915 kg to 2075 kg (4222 to 4574 lbs), which determines how much total load (vehicle plus cargo, passengers, and trailer tongue weight) the vehicle can safely handle. This weight rating supports modest towing duties, such as small trailers or boats, typical for compact SUVs. However, precise towing capacities depend on engine variants and equipment packages. The Tribute's weight limits ensure that owners can use the vehicle flexibly for everyday transport, light hauling, and recreational use while maintaining safety and performance.