Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General Common Interests Escape and Tribute, what's the diff???

Just like the title, whats the true difference between a tribute and an escape?

We're about to buy either an escape limited 4x4 or a tribute ES 4x4. The two seem to be identical, they're both the top of the line, but the ford is $2000 more. I've checked many times and I'm pretty sure they come with all the same options, too.

So, what are the mechanical differences in the two, and

is there any reason for them to be priced $2000 different?

not sure why they are priced so differently,but they are basically the exact same vehicle...with only minor variences....if you are looking to buy one then look at both and see which one you like the most...

i've read several magazine shootouts between the smaller suv's,and the escape/tribute came out on top in all of them...my sister in law has an escape...its pretty nice...its a hell of a lot better than a friend at works honda crv(that thing feels cheap as hell inside,and the seats really,really suck)

the only diff i know of is ones a ford the others a mazda

Having never been IN a Tribute, but owning an Escape - the only difference I know of is an Escape Limited has the whole vehicle painted in the choice color, as the Tribute has the bottom half in either gray or tan plastic. The plastic is actually painted, unlike the normal Escape which has the flat matte el-cheapo plastic panels.

there is no difference. but you probably will get a better deal from mazda since they aren't doing very well financially.

actually, ford isn't either.

Mazda trim packages/option structure is slightly different. Also, I've been told the ride is slightly stiffer in the Mazda, but not positive. Mazda resale value is slightly worse due to less name recognition.

Only thing I recall for a difference is the interior has different apointments.

The Limited is supposed to be a level above the ES which, I believe competes directly against the XLT Premium where there is about a $500 MSRP difference.

The big difference is warranty. The Mazda's (a Ford owned company) is 48 months versus 36 months. There are also some differences in standard equipment and option packages, but these are things you'll need to research for yourself.

I've only driven the Escape and was impressed with it. I would expect the Tribute to be very similar. In the small SUV segment they're certainly hard to beat.

You can look here Mazda's Build your own vehicle site

and here:Edmunds new vehicle comparison

Regards, Alan

The seats in the Tribute are far and away better than the Escape. Better bolstering, lumbar (not even offered on the Escape!) and nicer patterns/color options. Opt for the Flint (Gray) leather. It's heavenly.

Having driven both, and now owning a Tribute, the main difference is the ride. The Tribute's ride is firmer than the Escape and responds a little better. Only down side is it jitters a little more on bumps, like most vehicles with tight suspensions. Mazda's warranty is a little longer. Windows in the rear doors is smoked glass, Escape is normal Ford solar tint. Gas door on Tribute is locked, Escape needs a locking gas cap. Rest is cosmetic things like painted cladding, dash trim. The gauges on the Escape are like the SVTs, white background. Mazda dealers used to not deal, and Ford did, making the ratio about 12 Escapes sold for every Tribute.