Four new exterior colors are added to the list of upgrades including Pebble Ash metallic, Dark Titanium, Mystic Black and Platinum metallic. My test car was, as seen in

Remote keyless entry, air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, cruise control, and tilt steering are all standard on the Tribute. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

the photographs, not one of the new colors, but rather featured the Sonic Blue metallic finish. I really liked this particular hue of blue, as it matched so many outfits - OK. That last comment was to get you guys laughing. I'm really not that blonde. Back to the test drive, the new Tribute felt sizeable on the road. It was the same story when it came to visibility; great out the front and sides, not so great out the rear. I appreciated its many bells and whistles though, such as standard remote keyless entry, air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, cruise control (part of the convenience package), multiple cupholders and tilt steering.

Back to fuel consumption, it wasn't monstrous. With mileage like 10.9 L/100 km (22 mpg) in the city and 8.6 L/100 km (27

I found the 2005 Tribute to be well made, pleasant to look at and practical to live with. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

mpg) on the highway in my automatic equipped Tribute, I could probably live with it. But it would be a definite strain on my budget, compared to driving a compact hatchback, like the Mazda3 Sport for instance, that doesn't give up much space for people or cargo. Personally, due to my preference for manuals, no need for four-wheel drive and budgetary constraints, I'd opt for the 5-speed and its much more preferable 9.7 L/100 km (24 mpg) city and 7.3 L/100 km (32 mpg) highway rating - that is if I had to have an SUV. In the end I liked the new Tribute GX. Its stiff suspension made for great handling and comfortable seats kept me smiling during my regular commute. In general, it's well made, pleasant to look at and practical to live with. Not a bad combination.