2009 Mazda Tribute: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The biggest change for the 2009 Mazda Tribute is a new engine lineup, including updated four-cylinder, V6, and hybrid powertrains. It also receives meaningful chassis, seating, lighting, and convenience upgrades.

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About the 2009 Mazda Tribute

2nd generation (2008-2011), second year after the 2008 redesign.

Mazda positions the Tribute as its more traditional, rugged-looking compact SUV next to the sleeker CX-7 and larger CX-9. The core appeal is simple utility: upright SUV shape, useful cargo room, available four-wheel drive on many versions, and easier everyday driving than truck-based SUVs. In Mazda’s own language, it blends sports appeal with utility, so the Tribute’s identity is practical family transport with a tougher look and a little more driver engagement than many small SUVs of the time.

The 2009 Tribute ranges from the value-focused four-cylinder i to the stronger V6-powered s, while HEV models emphasize lower fuel use and practical SUV space. Touring trims add everyday comforts such as a power driver’s seat and upgraded audio, while Grand Touring versions bring leather, heated front seats, and a moonroof.

What changed, by category

Powertrain

The i models receive a 171-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder, the s models get a 240-hp 3.0-liter V6, and the HEV models adopt a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle hybrid system. Six-speed automatic transmissions are fitted to the listed i Touring, i Grand Touring, and s models, while the hybrids use an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission.

Structural

Front and rear stabilizer bars are added across the lineup to help control body movement. Mazda also redesigns the front and rear seat shapes and foam.

Safety

Daytime running lights and automatic headlights are added across the lineup.

Tech

A capless fuel filler is added across the lineup, eliminating the separate twist-off fuel cap.

2009 Mazda Tribute specs and features by trim

Feature	2009 Mazda Tributei0 in stock	2009 Mazda Tributes0 in stock	2009 Mazda Tributei Touring0 in stock	2009 Mazda Tributes Touring0 in stock	2009 Mazda TributeHEV Touring0 in stock	2009 Mazda Tributei Grand Touring0 in stock	2009 Mazda Tributes Grand Touring0 in stock	2009 Mazda TributeHEV Grand Touring0 in stock
Engine	4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter	V6, 3.0 Liter	4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter	V6, 3.0 Liter	4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.5 Liter	4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter	V6, 3.0 Liter	4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.5 Liter
Transmission	Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive	Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive	Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive	Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive	Automatic, CVT	Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive	Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive	Automatic, CVT
Drivetrain	2WD	4WD	2WD	4WD	2WD	2WD	4WD	4WD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas	Hybrid	Gas	Gas	Hybrid
MPG City	22 mpg	18 mpg	20 mpg	18 mpg	34 mpg	20 mpg	18 mpg	34 mpg
MPG Highway	28 mpg	26 mpg	28 mpg	26 mpg	31 mpg	28 mpg	26 mpg	31 mpg
Horsepower	171 hp	240 hp	171 hp	240 hp		171 hp	240 hp
Torque	171 lb-ft	223 lb-ft	171 lb-ft	223 lb-ft	136 lb-ft	171 lb-ft	223 lb-ft	136 lb-ft
Max Towing	1500 lb	3500 lb	1500 lb	3500 lb		1500 lb	3500 lb
Trunk/Cargo	66.3 cu-ft	66.3 cu-ft	66.3 cu-ft	66.3 cu-ft	66.1 cu-ft	66.2 cu-ft	66.2 cu-ft	65.9 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	35.6 in	35.6 in	35.6 in	35.6 in	35.6 in	35.6 in	35.6 in	35.6 in
Seats	5	5	5	5	5	5	5	5
Doors	4	4	4	4	4	4	4	4
Safety & Security
Alarm System
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Heated Mirrors
Power Moonroof
Privacy Glass
Roof Rails
Trailer Hitch Receiver
Entertainment & Electronics
Navigation System
Satellite Radio
Comfort & Convenience
Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Leather Seats
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Power Driver Seat
Remote Start
Tilt Wheel

How the 2010 Mazda Tribute compares

For 2010, the Mazda Tribute’s biggest change is a simplified lineup: the hybrid versions are gone, and the V6 is limited to the s Grand Touring. Otherwise, this is a light update with a few added convenience features rather than a redesign.

See the full 2010 changes

Frequently asked questions

What is the biggest change to the 2009 Mazda Tribute?

The biggest change is the fully updated powertrain lineup. Four-cylinder i models use a 171-hp 2.5-liter engine, V6-powered s models use a 240-hp 3.0-liter engine, and HEV models receive a new 2.5-liter hybrid setup.

How is the 2009 Mazda Tribute different from the 2008 model?

The 2009 Tribute has new gas and hybrid powertrains, front and rear stabilizer bars, redesigned seats, a capless fuel filler, daytime running lights, and automatic headlights. That makes it a meaningful update rather than a simple carryover from 2008.

Did the 2009 Mazda Tribute Hybrid change?

Yes. The 2009 Tribute HEV receives a new 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle hybrid system paired with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. It is offered in Touring and more comfort-focused Grand Touring forms.

Is the 2009 Mazda Tribute worth considering over the 2008 model?

Yes, if the newer engines and added equipment matter to you. The 2009 model brings broader mechanical and convenience updates, while the 2008 model marks the start of this Tribute generation’s redesign.

What non-engine updates did the 2009 Mazda Tribute receive?

The 2009 Tribute adds front and rear stabilizer bars, reshaped seats with revised foam, daytime running lights, automatic headlights, and a capless fuel filler across the lineup.