Have opportunity to purchase 2006 Mazda Tribute, 2.3L, 4 cycl, 5speed manual transmission, 153 horsepower, with 25K miles for $13K. Pros and Cons? Took for a test ride and seemed peppy enough. Any good or bad experiences with the 4 cylinder engine which is the smaller of the two offered by Mazda; V6 ~ 200HP, whereas 4cyl ~153 Hp?
Experience on any year Mazda tribute with a 2.3L manual transmission would help as well.

The product of a joint venture between Ford & Mazda, the Tribute is mechanically similar to the Ford Escape. Both r car-based SUVs, with unibody chassis & fully independent suspensions. Engine choices include an unimpressive 2.0-liter four-cylinder & a lively 3.0-liter, 200-hp V6. Major virtues include nimble handling, excellent brakes, commodious cabin space, & quick acceleration (in V6 models). Those r offset by a stiff ride, a noisy interior, & flimsy plastic trim. A tip-up in the government rollover test & a Poor in the IIHS side-crash test without side & curtain air bags r concerns.

l have the 2006 Mazda Tribute S which has the 6 cycl and auto transmission. l love the vehicle because it handles like a sport car yet l can lay the back seat down and load it up. The 4 cycl will probably get better gas mileage. l think you will like the Tribute and that is a good price for it.