Subaru, until recently without a viable competitor in the SUV market, quietly changed its competitive standing just months ago. The company introduced what amounts to an all new Tribeca full-time all-wheel drive “crossover” (whatever that is!), which on paper is so similar to its immediate ancestor as to hardly be worth testing. A week on the road showed, however, that in the tradition of many European vehicles understatement has apparently become Subaru of America’s unvoiced motto. It’s faster, rides better and is much quieter. At $36,650 base it should be on your “short list” of SUV’s to shop.
The Interior Package
The new Tribeca is attractive and uses decent interior plastics. The two front power leather buckets are comfortable but the three passenger split/folding rear bench is thinly padded. Reserve the rearmost seat for children. The cargo area is large, especially with the benches folded. A large console divides the front seats; nook and cranny storage is abundant. There’s no shortage of well designed cupholders, keyfob entry is standard and power points are everywhere. Overhead is a standard sunroof and roof rack.
Safety and Creature Comforts
-- Front, side, side curtain and head airbags help keep you safe.
-- The stability and traction control systems are state of the art
-- Four-wheel disc antilock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist are notable
-- A tire pressure monitoring system, daytime running lights, a back-up camera, Homelink (the Subaru version of General Motor’s OnStar) and more are worthwhile
--Creature comforts to note are tilt steering, the leather covered wheel and heated front seats
--power windows, mirrors, locks, cruise control and a hard to use and understand GPS System (buy an aftermarket Garmin instead) are standard
Under the Hood
Here you’ll find a 256 HP aluminum V6 with dual overhead cams. The cylinders are horizontally opposed, as in Porsche sports cars. Its 3.6 liter capacity, two-tenths of a liter more than ’08, produces much more low-end torque. The ’08 engine supposedly produces just 11 more horsepower than last year. Even a cursory glance at this year’s 7.8 second 0-60 dash, a full second faster than ’07 as measured by a Belkin accelerometer, shows the folks at the Lafayette, IND factory might be fudging the output figure. Fuel use by this 4,129 pound all-wheel driver was observed at 14 city and 19 highway (EPA 16/21), slightly below most rivals.
The Transmission
The powerplant was mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission that shifted flawlessly. Maximum towing capacity was listed as 3,500 pounds. Note the Tribeca has no Hi/Lo transfer case despite 8.3 inches of ground clearance. It’s made for inclement weather, not hard-core off-roading.
Handling and Ride
Tossibility was, overall, better than many other high profile “crossovers.” The turning circle was measured at 38 feet, a benefit derived from its 4-wheel independent suspension. The ride, unlike its ancestors, is family style soft. Beware: this vehicle isn’t built for aggressive driving. You will, however, be satisfied with both its handling and ride if you keep its “family haulin” purpose in mind.
The Sound System, Air Conditioner and Other Points
The Tribeca Limited (the top-line model) employed an AM/FM/CD/XM Satellite system. It was adequate, high praise for a Subaru sound system! The vehicle also used front and rear air conditioners, units which were adequate but slow to cool the vehicle during 95 degree days. Note the Tribeca’s warranty matches most in the industry: it isn’t notable.
The Verdict
Subaru of America’s Tribeca now equals or betters the competition. It’s well worth a test drive.
Zane Binder - Starting as a mechanic in the late '60's fresh from a stint in Army Intelligence this writer began wrench work on drag cars. He eventually ...
