Regular Coolant Flushes Extend the Life of Your Motor

 

Like all other fluid in your car, the antifreeze/coolant used by your radiator to keep your engine at peak operating temperature requires periodic replacement. There are some key differences between an oil change and changing your antifreeze, however, that make the process a little bit more involved than simply pulling the plug and draining out the old coolant.

 

According to the fluids experts at Castrol, one of the key aspects of cooling system maintenance is flushing out old antifreeze in order to keep ahead of rust and sludge formation. Your engine bay contains tubing and piping that is designed to transport coolant to and from the engine, and through the HVAC system, and the motor itself also features channels, which circulate antifreeze on a continual basis. Over time, these passages can get clogged up with corrosion or sludge – stuff that doesn’t always drain out easily on its own. Fortunately, our dealership offers the specialized equipment and expertise required to flush out any cooling system contaminants and ensure that the antifreeze mixture running through your radiator is as pure as possible. Our technicians don’t just remove old coolant and fill your car up with a new mixture; instead, they employ a machine designed to run a unique mixture of antifreeze and distilled water through your engine’s entire cooling system and then vacuum it all out, creating enough pressure during the process to also remove any debris that might be lurking inside your radiator or its associated plumbing.

 

There are a number of other benefits associated with coming to our dealership for a coolant flush. The first is the time savings involved. Using a computerized radiator flush machine can cut the amount of time significantly shorter than the hours required for a gravity drain, garden hose refill, second drain for flushing purposes and then filling everything up again in the driveway at home. More important, using our dealership’s fluid flush service is much safer, both for you and for the environment. You don’t have to worry about dealing with the scalding hot antifreeze coursing through your motor, nor do you run the risk of spilling the used ethylene glycol coolant on the ground where it can seep into the water supply or even poison pets, which are attracted by its sweet smell and taste. Even if your car features “non-toxic” propylene glycol coolant, the coolant has still picked up nasty contaminants and trace metals inside the engine, so simply pouring it on the ground is extremely detrimental to the environment.

 

Our dealership antifreeze flushes are a convenient, inexpensive and important aspect of your vehicle’s routine maintenance schedule. Castrol recommends flushing your coolant every two years, which gives you plenty of time to set up an appointment at our service department and benefit from the peace of mind that this type of service offers.

 

Hours:   Monday-Friday 7:00AM to 6:00PM
Saturday 8:00AM to 2:00PM & Closed Sunday

Call Us: (888) 481-9966

2012 Mazda5

 

2012 MAZDA5 DELIVERS UNEXPECTED DELIGHT WITH DESIGN, FUNCTIONALITY AND PERFORMANCE

The popular Mazda5 multi-activity vehicle surprises with new Nagare design, exceptional versatility, class-leading performance and outstanding fuel efficiency

Offering unexpected levels of design, functionality, packaging and performance simply not found in any other vehicle sold in North America today, the Mazda5 is beloved by its owners. With a unique combination of flexible seat arrangements, sliding doors, stylish design, outstanding handling, fuel efficiency and high level of safety, Mazda5 has made a strong impact in the North American market since it launched as a 2006 model. The Mazda5 is unique: it doesn’t fit into a mold, and neither do its owners; it can’t be defined by a segment; it suits a family, but thrives in an active lifestyle setting. One could say it’s a vehicle right where everything else isn’t.

In approaching the development of the all-new 2012 Mazda5, Hideki Matsuoka, Mazda5 program manager, took the best of the current model and set out to further evolve it. The team aimed to create a new multi-activity vehicle (MAV) that combines superior environmental performance with a new expression of stylish design. Matsuoka’s concept for the new Mazda5 was to bring to the market a “contemporary smart choice.”

“This concept expresses our goal to build a new family mover for the global market that offers a smart solution to the user’s every need by establishing a balance between diverse functionality and outstanding performance,” said Matsuoka.

Matsuoka and team identified five key values in the development of the 2012 Mazda5:

• Smart and emotional design
• Rational, easy-to-use functionality
• Developed with the utmost quality
• Refined, dynamic driving performance without compromising environmental performance.

The 2012 Mazda5 incorporates motifs from Mazda’s Nagare “flow” design language which, inspired by the beauty of nature, presents an elegant look not found in any existing vehicle today. It’s an appealing look that captures the eye upon first glance.

Changes to the 2012 Mazda5 continue under the skin, too, as the vehicle is powered by a 2.5-liter MZR I4 engine, which also sees use in the Mazda3, Mazda6 and CX-7, and can be paired with either a manual or automatic transmission. “We have further evolved Mazda’s trademark Zoom-Zoom driving experience by working to deliver an overall balance of linear feeling and response that creates a unique bond between the driver and car, as well as a stronger sense of trust in the vehicle,” said Matsuoka.

SMART, EMOTIONAL DESIGN THAT CAPTIVATES

Adopting the expression “Seductive Smartness” as the design concept, the new Mazda5’s design is aimed to achieve a higher balance of functionality and design, while at the same time giving it a stylish new look that is immediately distinguishable from the box-like designs found on conventional offerings in the market.

Application of the Nagare “flow” design language brings an elegant and stylish new look to the Mazda5. Mazda has only featured Nagare design on concept cars; this is the first time the design language has been used in a production vehicle. Nagare incorporates the beauty of nature, in particular the forces of wind and water, to lend an intuitive sense of motion to the respective designs. Nagare design, as it applies to the new Mazda5, not only expresses the essence of dynamic performance and the elegance inspired by the beauty of nature, but also the care taken in developing and manufacturing the Mazda5 to coexist harmoniously with the environment. In addition, its elegantly flowing design also contributes to aerodynamic performance and a quiet ride.

In styling the new Mazda5, the design team viewed the overall image as a single bead of water with ripples intentionally left on the surface, such that the body’s lines express the flow of motion. The flow begins at the front grille and passes smoothly over the headlamps, hood and fenders. It then continues over the sides of the body, rear combination lamps and tailgate in a continuous stream. The various lines and motifs appear only to disappear again, creating a repeating theme of change and fusion that guides one’s eyes with its expression of beauty. The overall effect is a look of quality, emotional styling and elegance that intensifies the joy of ownership.

The five-point front grille shares the unique design of the family face that is found on every Mazda. This makes it immediately distinguishable as a Mazda product, and lends it a dynamic and sporty expression that is true to its DNA. The ‘flowing’ lines of the hood and headlamps gather in the center of the grille to create a powerful sense of motion. And the curved lines that form the mesh pattern adopted for the grille lend the impression that the mesh flows out from the center to the sides, which expresses the essence of Nagare design.

The fog lamp bezels were designed to form a continuous line with the side shoulders and wheel arches to present a wide, dynamic image. This blends beautifully with the gentle S-shaped contour established by the flowing lines off the sides of the front grille and up toward the headlamps. In addition, the mesh pattern surrounding the fog lamps creates a design that flows back toward the rear of the vehicle. The deeply sculpted form of the area around the hood and fog lamps gives the front a firm countenance that emphasizes its aggressive-looking styling. The hood is laid out taller than the previous generation Mazda5, which presents a greater presence.

The Nagare design motif applied to the sides of the body gracefully continues the dynamic flow of the lines from the headlamps and front fenders, and then carries that flow to the rear fenders and rear combination lamps in beautiful fashion. In the same spirit, the rails for the sliding door are blended skillfully with the character lines.

By connecting the flow from the front and sides through to the rear fenders, rear combination lamps and all the way to the tailgate, Mazda5’s design creates an exquisite and consistent body line. Adding further appeal and lending the rear end a wider, more stable look, is the powerful line cut by the prominent rear fender shoulders combined with the placement of the rear combination lamps, which are laid out lower than on the previous generation vehicle. The finishing touch is the extended rear quarter and rear window glass panels that completely cover the D-pillar to emphasize the fresh, flowing design.

The headlamps on the new Mazda5 play a prominent role in the overall design of the vehicle. The headlamp design starts with the stretched look that distinguishes Mazda headlamps; Nagare is introduced in the form of a supple S-shape design. This line blends with those on the front grille, hood and fender arches to heighten the individualistic character of the vehicle. Direct electrodeposition coating is used to enhance the contrast of textures within the lamp housing. The overall effect is that of an original and extremely stylish new design.

The rear combination lamps pick up the flow from the character lines on the sides of the body and the sliding door rails, and continue it on to the tailgate to form a beautiful design. In creating this look, the Mazda5 blends the trailing end of the sliding door rails smoothly into the rear combination lamps to create a simple, stylish expression.

PREMIUM INTERIOR WITH NAGARE FLARE

Motifs adopted from the Nagare design language can also be found throughout the interior, from the lines above the dials and along the instrument panel to the stitch pattern in the seats and the design of the seat fabric. The overall ambience established is that of a sporty, high-quality cabin.

The driver-oriented design of the interior positions the peak of the meter hood as the tall point, with all lines flowing from there to comfortably wrap around the driver. The instrument panel flows from the cockpit to the center panel and on to the passenger-side dashboard in a rippling effect that suggests a liquid sensation to the design. The same flow continues on through the lines of the seat pattern, connecting seamlessly with the second and third row seats to create a strong sense of unity throughout the interior.

The cockpit presents a sporty look that hints at what the Mazda5 will be like to drive, from the look of its twin deep-set gauges to the genuine leather that wraps the steering wheel and gear shift knob. The center panel is fitted with chrome plating and silver-trimmed control knobs that creates a look of top quality, all the while emphasizing the stylish design of the new Mazda5’s cabin.

PRACTICAL FUNCTIONALITY

Based on an innovative packaging concept, the first-generation Mazda5 offered value that far outclassed other vehicles in the marketplace. The fine balance it struck between sporty, dynamic styling, versatility and outstanding practicality earned the Mazda5 high praise from media and consumers alike.

“The Mazda5 is part of a class of vehicle that is tremendously popular in Europe and Japan, where space and utility must be maximized and driving performance is held at a premium,” says Matsuoka. “We set out to make sure this vehicle was fun to drive while also being versatile and practical. The attractive looks and good performance in no way compromise packaging and versatility.”

With an overall length of 180.5 inches, width of 68.9 inches, height of 63.6 inches, and sitting on a 108.3-inch wheelbase, the Mazda5 delivers roomy comfort while being surprisingly compact. The long wheelbase helps give it extraordinary passenger space for its modest external dimensions, and the short front and rear overhangs enable better handling and parking ease. Despite the long wheelbase, Mazda5 features an impressive tight turning circle of 36.7 feet, making it remarkably easy to maneuver in tight situations. With a low drag coefficient of 0.30, it is aerodynamically efficient, cleaving the air quietly and maximizing fuel economy.

A very popular feature of the previous generation that is carried over is the superbly practical manually operated sliding rear side doors that can be operated with one finger. The doors hug the sides of the vehicle when open, and create a wide opening for easy entry and exit to the rear seats – even for the third row of passengers. This not only provides far superior access compared with conventional front-hinged doors, it also is a benefit in tight parking spaces because they require little side clearance when open.

Despite its compact makeup, the MAZDA5 features a spacious cabin. Three features contribute to its roomy interior: a low profile fuel tank, a compact multi-link rear suspension, and a stepped floor. The latter permits excellent legroom for all – especially those sitting in the second and third rows. The ingeniously flexible interior takes convenience and versatility to a whole new level, and can be configured for two, three, four, five or six passengers, plus commensurate amounts of cargo.

The second row has separate captain’s chairs for added levels of comfort (and to minimize the “he’s touching me” joy when little ones share a bench seat). They slide and recline and can be folded flat without removing their headrests. They also feature a one-touch lever that automatically tips the seatback forward and slides the cushion to its front-most position to allow access to the third row.

The third row seats are split 50/50. They can be tipped forward individually and folded flat to create a flat load area, ideal for carrying mountain bikes or bulky sports equipment. With the rear-most seats folded flat, carrying capacity is a spacious 44.4 cubic feet. Even with all six seats in the “up” position, the luggage area is still large enough to carry a standard baby stroller and baby’s accoutrements behind the third row.

Interior storage space includes an abundance of compartments, including a vast, illuminated glovebox and half-liter bottle holders in each front door pocket. Additionally, under-seat storage in the second row seats can be accessed by folding the cushions forwards. The right-middle seat also offers a tilt-out basket, to keep safe all the little “things” that a family collects.

The MAZDA5 features “theater-style” seating. The stepped floor referred to earlier means each row is mounted a little higher than the one in front to improve visibility for all. The driver, too, benefits from excellent visibility, improving primary safety as well as making driving more enjoyable.

ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE MATCHED WITH ZOOM-ZOOM DYNAMICS

Mazda5 customers will benefit from a healthier injection of Zoom-Zoom for 2012, attributable to an increase in displacement from 2.3 to 2.5-liters. This new engine is similar in most details to those found in the Mazda3, Mazda6 and CX-7. Mazda’s MZR engine family is widely regarded as one of the world’s most advanced forms of fuel-efficient, high-energy propulsion. The MZR 2.5-liter featured in the new MAZDA5 is a light, compact design that offers higher performance yet better fuel efficiency than the previous generation.

The MZR 2.5-liter produces its maximum output of 157 hp at a lower rpm than the previous 2.3-liter (6,000 rpm), and also delivers more torque (163 ft-lb at 4,000 rpm) throughout its operating range for a more satisfying and relaxing driving experience. In addition, a tall sixth gear allows quiet and comfortable cruising.

The MZR 2.5-liter uses a cast aluminum cylinder block and high-strength, thin-walled sleeves, as well as compact, light-weight pistons. The result is a design that weighs in about as light as the outgoing 2.3-liter motor. Improvement was also made to the flow within the intake valves and reduced exhaust resistance, while using Sequential Valve Timing (S-VT) to deliver optimum intake valve timing whether dawdling in traffic or carving around an on-ramp. Mazda’s Variable Induction System (VIS) is also utilized to improve low to mid range torque. The MZR 2.5-liter engine gives a linear feel to acceleration, accurate response and a light, relaxing driving performance.

MAZDA5 can be equipped with either a six-speed manual transmission (Sport models only) or a five-speed electronically controlled automatic with manual shift control. Despite an increase in power and displacement, fuel efficiency ratings show no loss over the previous generation’s 2.3-liter engine.

A uniquely Mazda Active Adaptive Shift protocol, which has earned high acclaim on the RX-8 sports car, provides the new five-speed automatic transmission with the performance and response that MAZDA5 customers expect. Part-throttle downshifts are delivered in sync with the nudge of the accelerator during passing. When the car is braked aggressively in anticipation of cornering, the transmission also downshifts to add engine braking and to prepare for an expedient exit from the bend. A wider overall ratio spread assists acceleration from rest while also providing quieter and more efficient highway cruising.

Mazda5’s steering system delivers a precise, linear feel thanks in part to Mazda’s electronic hydraulic power assist steering (EHPAS) system. Adopting an electric pump for the new Mazda5, the system also contributes to improved fuel mileage. Rubber couplings added to the steering shaft joints help realize an even smoother, more linear feel to steering actions. The steering system also includes tilt and telescopic adjustment that lets any member of the family find the right driving position, regardless of height and build.

Suspension layout for the previous Mazda5 used MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link suspension in the rear that employed separate coils and dampers as part of its input separated system. The dampers used were a twin tube type and the rear dampers included integrated rebound springs. The inherent functions of these components earned the suspension high acclaim for delivering superior handling stability.

While the new Mazda5 continues to use this suspension system, the spring rates have been increased to realize a new level of linear roll and to improve straight-line stability when driving at highway speeds. Stiffness is increased in the lower arm mount bushings for the front suspension for a more direct, linear feel to steering.

SAFETY FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

The previous generation Mazda5 achieved outstanding safety ratings. While carrying over this high level of safety performance, the new Mazda5 further raises that safety level, and never makes customers pay more money for more safety – all features are provided on all vehicles at no additional cost. All Mazda5s include a long and impressive list of safety features, including: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control System (TCS), Electric Hydraulic Power Assist (EHPAS) steering system, “Triple H” body construction, side-impact door beams, crushable brake and accelerator pedal assembly, advanced dual front air bags, front seat side air bags, three-row side air curtains, engine immobilizer anti-theft system, second row LATCH child safety seat anchors and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

The 2012 Mazda5 will also offer Mazda’s Brake Override System. This system always prioritizes the brake pedal over the accelerator pedal should both be engaged simultaneously, allowing the vehicle to be brought to a safe stop.

THREE WELL-EQUIPPED MODELS

The 2012 Mazda5 is available in three trim levels – the entry-level Sport, Touring and top-grade Grand Touring. All three trim levels offer the versatility, features and style consumers in the market for a multi-activity vehicle want, at a price they can afford.

The well-equipped Mazda5 Sport is powered by a 157 horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and is available with either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. Standard features include 16-inch alloy wheels with 205/55/R16 all-season tires, power mirrors, air conditioning, power windows and door locks, AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo with six speakers, audio auxiliary jack, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, remote keyless entry system, one-touch up/down driver’s window, 50/50 split fold-down third row seats and steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls.

The Mazda5 Touring takes everything on the Mazda5 Sport and pumps it up a notch. Mazda5 Touring is equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission, 17-inch alloy wheels with P205/50R17 all-season tires, sport side still extensions, rear liftgate spoiler, fog lamps, Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and trip computer.

The top-of-the line Grand Touring model adds a power moonroof, xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights, automatic on/off headlights, heated door mirrors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, anti-theft alarm system, driver’s seat lumbar support adjustment, heated front seats, in-dash 6-disc CD changer, leather-trimmed seats and Sirius® satellite radio.

The Touring model is available with a Moonroof and Audio Package which includes a power moonroof, in-dash 6-disc CD changer and Sirius® satellite radio.

Celebrating its 40th Anniversary in the United States in 2010, Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif. and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

Camping 101

 

Note these simple tips before embarking on your camping adventure.
As summer unfolds, campgrounds around the country will quickly fill up with families getting away and enjoying the serenity of nature. Before you pack up and hit the road, here are a few tips to help make your camping excursion fun and stress-free.

 

When packing for a camping trip, prepare for common hazards you might encounter on your trip from bad weather and ticks to poison ivy or rodents.

• Check the local weather for your destination the day before you leave, so you can be prepared with appropriate clothing and shelter.
• If you are hiking to your camping destination, it’s worthwhile to practice walking with a full pack so your body is ready for the extra work.
• Bring plenty of garbage bags; not only will they be useful if there are no garbage disposal areas near where you set up camp, but they can also be used to keep items dry in a surprise rain shower.

Regardless of your destination, there are a handful of items you should always bring along:

 

• If anyone in your party has medical conditions such as asthma or allergies, be sure to pack enough of the required medications. Kidshealth.org suggests packing an extra couple days’ worth of medications, just in case something happens to keep you from returning home on time.
• Bug spray, poison ivy lotion and sunscreen.
• A first aid kit.
• A radio, a flashlight and extra batteries.
• It might sound funny, but bringing an extra pair or two of socks could make all the difference. If it rains or you find yourself sloshing through a puddle, you’ll be happy you have clean, dry socks to change into.

Wild animal encounters are possible and sometimes likely depending on where you decide to camp. Know what to do around wild animals and how to guard your campsite against them.

• The number one instruction regarding wild animals is don’t feed them. By feeding them, you’re encouraging the animals to get used to finding food at campsites and they’ll return for more when they’re hungry.
• Secure your food and keep it a safe distance from where you sleep. Animals have a strong sense of smell and the last thing you want is a curious, hungry creature raiding your tent for the last s’more.

Some areas of the country have specific rules regarding food storage and other wildlife related issues at campgrounds. If camping in a state or local park, be sure to check the ranger’s office or the park’s website for instructions. If camping in more remote areas, state wildlife officials can offer useful information.

 

Keep a safe distance from wild animals. Squirrels, chipmunks and other little critters might look cute, but they could be dangerous if they feel threatened. More important, if you see animals that are usually nocturnal, such as opossums or raccoons, out during the day, they might be sick and a ranger or other park official should be notified immediately.

 

In areas at high risk for wildfires, campfires may be restricted or prohibited. Be sure to check on conditions at your intended destination before you go, and read any notices posted where you are camping when you arrive.

 

Don’t let something as simple as forgetting a raincoat or the bug spray ruin your camping adventure.

 

2011 Mazda Tribute

 

2011 MAZDA TRIBUTE: RUGGED GOOD LOOKS MEETS SUV FUNCTIONALITY

Offering more traditional sport-utility vehicle (SUV) styling than Mazda’s other crossovers,  CX-7 and CX-9, the 2011 Tribute rounds out the Mazda family of unibody-based utility vehicles, making it the perfect choice for buyers in search of traditional, go-anywhere, rugged styling.  For the 2011 model year, Tribute carries over key specifications and features from the 2010 model year.

POWER WORTHY OF AN SUV

Performance has always been a pillar of strength for the Tribute.  The 2011 Tribute i is fitted with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine which produces 171 horsepower and 171 lb-ft torque and returns fuel economy of up to 23/28 mpg (city/highway).  It is one of the most sophisticated too: light, efficient and refined.  Double-overhead camshafts improve engine breathing and high-revving response, which in turn improves performance and fuel economy.  It also uses a variable induction system that delivers more power when the driver demands it, enhancing torque at lower revs and maximizing power at higher revs.  The pistons are lightweight, improving throttle response, smoothness and the engine’s ability to rev.  The 2.5-liter 4-cylinder is rated ULEV/Tier 2 Bin 5.

For even more rugged power, Tribute s features a 240-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 with 223 lb-ft torque and returns fuel economy of up to 19/25 mpg (city/highway).  Its aluminum block and head helps keep weight down, benefiting handling and improving the power-to-weight ratio.  As with the 2.5 four-cylinder, it uses double-overhead camshafts to control the valves and improve engine breathing – which in turn boosts performance and gas mileage.  A six-speed automatic transmission is standard.  The 3.0-liter V6 is rated ULEV/Tier2 Bin 4 and is Flex Fuel compatible.

An easy-shifting five-speed manual gearbox, which has short, sporty gear changes, is standard on the Tribute i Sport.  It uses multi-cone synchronizers (dual-cone for first and second, single for third through fifth) to reduce shift effort and a cable-shift for improved gear-change precision.  The gear lever is positioned at an ideal height on the center console to be as near as possible to the driver’s right hand.  A six-speed automatic transmission is standard on Touring and Grand Touring models (optional on i Sport model).

CONTROLLING THE POWER

The Tribute’s sporty behavior also comes from its unibody construction and the fully independent coil-sprung suspension, as used on many sports cars.  Many rival SUVs use truck-like body-on-frame chassis, which flex more and provide a much less stable platform for the suspension.  The Tribute’s unibody construction provides superb structural rigidity, improving ride and handling, as well as contributing to fewer rattles and a much tauter driving feel.

The fully independent coil-sprung suspension – MacPherson struts at the front, multi-link at the rear – ensures each wheel responds independently to road conditions, increasing the sure-footedness of the vehicle, improving handling and road holding.  It gives the vehicle more poise in difficult conditions, including at high-speeds and on unpaved surfaces, and also improves ride comfort.

The track, front (60.7 inches) and rear (60.2 inches) is wide, which also benefits stability, handling and road holding.  Nitrogen gas-charged shock absorbers give superb wheel control, on- or off-road, and maintain their composure even after tough use.  The Tribute handles like a well-sorted sedan, but with all the extra benefits of an SUV.

Another sports car touch is the use of rack-and-pinion steering for greater steering precision and response.  Variable power assistance means low-speed maneuvering, such as parking, is easy.  Yet at higher speeds, reduced power assistance preserves road feel and steering feedback.  Electric Power Steering (EPS), which improves vehicle sensitivity, is standard, and, improves NVH and fuel economy by eliminating the power steering pump.

All Tributes have ventilated 11.9-inch front discs for strong heat dissipation which improves braking performance after repeated use, such as a long downhill stretch with many bends.  Both Tribute i and s models are equipped with standard Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) to prevent wheel lock-up and skids, and to help maintain steering control under braking.  The four-channel system is more advanced than a conventional three-channel set-up, as every wheel has its own sensor to provide individual braking control.  Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) varies the distribution of braking force between the front and rear wheels depending on the load to stop the vehicle as quickly as possible.

RUGGED GOOD LOOKS

Part of being a great sports vehicle is great sporty design, and the Tribute scores well here.  Tributes makes a powerful statement with a rugged, tough exterior design by offering a more traditional SUV styling than Mazda’s other SUVs, CX-7 and CX-9.  Outside, the body has a taut athletic skin with a high belt line.  Wheels are 16-inch seven-spoke alloys with 16-inch P235/70R tires.

Tribute’s interior is upscale and comfortable.  The main instruments are chrome-trimmed, sports car-style.  The driver’s and front passenger’s seats have pronounced side bolsters to hold occupants in place during cornering.

UTILITY FOR WORK OR PLAY

Designed for real-world driving, the Tribute is at home cruising on the freeway, tackling unpaved roads or in the rough-and-tough urban jungle.  Car-like front-wheel drive is standard.  If extra traction is necessary – either for off-road driving or pulling heavy loads in slippery conditions – the Tribute is available with Mazda’s innovative Active Torque Control Coupling (ATCC) four-wheel-drive system.  This ingenious system is available on both four-cylinder and V6 Tribute models equipped with automatic transmissions.

A sophisticated computer monitors the engine, wheel speeds and transmission, and automatically transfers torque between the front and rear wheels.  The split to the rear wheels varies between zero and 50 percent.  It senses where traction is strongest and delivers the appropriate amount of torque for optimal grip.

Unlike mechanical systems, which react only to wheel slip, ATCC predicts wheel spin, and prevents it from happening in the first place.  It changes continually, to suit ever-changing driving conditions, and is also completely automatic, so no driver settings or adjustment is necessary.  It reacts faster than a hydraulic system because there is no lag time waiting for a viscous fluid to heat up before splitting power between the axles.  The system is also useful on-road – such as in snow or heavy rain, or any time where there is a potential for loss of traction.  Compared with less sophisticated four-wheel drive systems, ATCC improves driving responsiveness, handling and fuel economy.

Like all good SUVs, the Tribute has a commanding driving position, great visibility, good ground clearance, a tall roof and large cargo area.  The elevated seating position, and superb visibility means you get a better view of the road when weather conditions are bad, such as heavy driving rain.

The vehicle seats five adults in comfort.  For extra versatility, there are up to four storage areas within easy reach of the driver’s seat, and five near the front passenger.  In addition, a center console storage compartment with removable bins offers enough space to store a laptop.  Both front doors have storage compartments, as do the backs of each front seat (Touring and Grand Touring  models).

There is 31.4 cubic feet of carrying space behind the rear seat when it is up, and 67.2 cubic feet when the seatback is reclined.  The rear seat is asymmetrically split 60:40, which improves carrying versatility.  For extra practicality, the tailgate features a rear window that lifts separately, ideal for loading less heavy objects.

Of course, safety is a priority.  The all-steel unibody construction is not only very rigid, it is also enormously strong.  The crumple zones and ‘Triple H’ construction are designed to absorb and redirect energy away from the passenger cabin.  ‘Triple H’ refers to the H-shaped structures in the sides, floor and roof that provide a rigid cell around the cockpit.  Side impact door beams are also fitted, to further improve safety in a side impact.

The Tribute comes with advanced dual-stage front airbags that use various sensors to deploy each front airbag with the right amount of force to deal with the impact.  For the driver, sensors measure seatbelt usage and the fore/aft seating position.  For the front passenger, sensors first measure the weight in the seat to determine if the seat is occupied and if it is, the sensors turn on the passenger airbag and measure seatbelt usage.  Front side impact airbags, fitted into the seats rather than the doors – so they work equally effectively, irrespective of seat position – are standard.  Side-impact air curtains with rollover protection are also standard.

Front seat belts have pre-tensioners to reduce slack in the early moments of an impact.  In the rear, all three seats have three-point belts and adjustable head restraints for extra safety.  For additional safety, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Roll Stability Control (RSC), Traction Control System and a tire pressure monitoring system are also standard.  Whether the driving conditions are dry and fast or slippery and moderately paced, exceptional handling is assured.

THREE TRIM LEVELS SIMPLIFY CHOICES

The well-equipped, entry-level Sport trim offers all the convenience, safety and utility today’s young SUV buyers demand.  Standard features include automatic headlights, 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD audio system, ambient temperature gauge, remote keyless entry system and power mirrors, door locks and windows.  Cruise control is standard on vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions.  A roof rack and auto-dimming rear view mirror complete with compass, or Homelink® are also available.

The mid-level Touring trim builds on the Sport trim with the addition of  privacy glass, a standard roof rack, six-way power adjustable driver’s seat with manual adjustable lumbar support, overhead console with dual storage bins and front seatback map pockets.

Offering the highest level of comfort and convenience found in the Tribute lineup, the fully loaded Grand Touring trim comes standard with everything found on the Sport and Touring trims, plus Satellite radio and much more.  Additional standard exterior features include heated side-view mirrors and a power-sliding moonroof.  A more sophisticated and cozy interior features leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, garage door opener, electrochromatic mirror with rearview backup camera display and leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers.  Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.