2005 Mazda Tribute GT

For 2005, Mazda has introduced the refreshed version of its popular compact SUV, the Tribute. First made available for the masses in 2001, it shares just about everything with the Ford Escape except for the logo on the front grille. To compete with the likes of the popular Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV-4 and Suzuki Vitara (Chevrolet Sidekick), Ford along with Mazda, decided to create their own version of the compact sport-utility vehicle. Wise, resourceful and thinking of the North American market, they determined that making it bigger and available with an optional V6 would attract more buyers. The only negative aspect for Mazda is that it would suffer through more brand dilution (since the Tribute is built by and uses pieces from Ford's parts bin).