Before this year, every time we would get invited to the launch of a small SUV or crossover, the manufacturer lined up only the most powerful versions of their new model. Even if 4-cylinder and V6 engines were available, when we asked if we could try out a version with the smaller engine, we would get an answer that sounded like: "Um... we don't have any right now."
 | | The new powertrain provides good performance and fuel economy, all at an affordable price level. |
But in the time it takes to fill up a gas tank, manufacturers have revised their strategy. In the last few months, we've been invited to no less than four SUV ride and drive programs that concentrate on the 4-cylinder version of their models. Some didn't even have a 4-cylinder SUV in their line-up until this year. Can we consumers sacrifice V6 power and speed for 4-pot frugality? Is it worth it?
Lean and mean
Last year, the 4-cylinder Tribute had a 2.3-litre unit that produced 153 horsepower and provided sufficient performance. But with a fairly heavy load and a 4-speed automatic, the engine strained and consumed more fuel than one would expect, especially on the highway.
For 2009, Mazda replaced that engine with a new 2.5-litre 4-cylinder that develops 171 horsepower and as much torque. Better yet, a new 6-speed automatic better exploits the engine. With more low-end torque, the transmission keeps the 2.5 from revving too high under normal driving and delivers a more respectable fuel economy average. We're driving at a rate of 10.3 L/100 km, which is actually pretty good.
While we're saving unleaded, we're getting to speed more quickly. Not that we're encouraging speeding, but our Tribute gets to 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds, which is not too far from the thrust felt in last year's V6-equipped model. By the way, the V6 Tribute gets 40 newfound horses and the 6-speed auto for 2009.
As for handling, the Tribute is no CX-7. In fact, it doesn't really fit with Mazda's 'zoom-zoom' advertising. However, it trades sporty driving characteristics for a comfortable ride, around town or on the highway. And at 100 km/h, the 4-cylinder engine is spinning at only 1,900 rpm, which makes for a quiet cabin.
 | | For 2009, this new 2.5-litre 4-cylinder develops 171 horsepower and as much torque. |
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