Mazda has gone GREEN! The 2008 Mazda Tribute Hybrid has flipped the idea of “going green” on its backside. With a wealth of incredible features and superior exterior styling, the Tribute Hybrid blows all other comparables away. It’s gotten some styling tweaks, including a new grille and interior, plus a rear window that now looks more like the Escape’s. Not only is it one of the most agile Hybrid SUVs on the market, competing with hardliners like the Ford Escape, it is also available with a towing package. The Mazda Tribute Hybrid both saves on gas and can tow a boat or ATV. With three different trim levels available, buyers can find exactly what they want with ease. Not only that, this hybrid offers two engine sizes as well. Also, the Tribute Hybrid can be purchased as a 4WD SUV.

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The 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata ranks in the top half of its class because of its tight, balanced handling and zippy acceleration. What’s more, reviewers see its soft top and new power-folding hardtop as the best in their class, though the MX-5 falls short of competitors on interior room. As the highest-ranking Affordable Sports Car by US News, the Miata proves to be a smart choice for anyone in the market for a great performer at a bargain price.

With its balanced handling, quick and precise steering, and crisp-shifting six-speed manual transmission, the 2008 Mazda MX-5 is a true sports car. It virtually tied the Porsche Boxster other site’s test scoring, but at about $27,000, it’s roughly half the price. The manual top can easily be lowered or raised with one hand from the driver’s seat. 

All Mazda Miatas are powered by a 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder engine good for 166 horsepower – not much less than the previous-generation’s turbocharged Mazdaspeed high-performance model. Depending on trim levels you’ll find this power routed to the rear wheels through a five- or six-speed manual transmission, or an available six-speed automatic for shiftless types — though with the automatic, hp drops to 158.

MSRP: $27,000

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