As with all Subaru vehicles, a key strength of the Tribeca is in the handling department. The SUV benefits from full-time all-wheel drive, unlike many of its direct competitors, which utilize on-demand all-wheel drive systems. Due to their very nature, on-demand systems can create unpredictable cornering conditions as they shuttle power from the front wheels to the back and vice-versa.
The Tribeca also boasts a very low centre of gravity as a result of the low profile of its 6-cylinder boxer engine - which is why this engine, in a Porsche application, would be called a "flat six". This low centre of gravity means that Tribeca has less of a tendency to lean in corners, a particularly unsettling characteristic of many large SUVs.
So, again: advantage Subaru
The Tribeca doesn't exactly carve through turns like a sports car or churn up a gravel road like the World Rally Championship-spec Subaru Impreza. But it does provide a high level of traction on loose surfaces, a reasonably compliant ride over the rough stuff and more than its fair share of dynamic handling in the corners.
Price to be determined, value certain
While pricing for the 2008 Subaru Tribeca isn't expected until July, the manufacturer anticipates no significant increases over the 2007 model. (For the record, the current model line ranges in price from $41,995 to $52,495.)
What is certain, though, is the fact that the Tribeca represents significant value for the driver looking for a safe and solid family vehicle. With excellent handling capabilities, a high level of interior refinement and an improved drivetrain, this Subaru will make more sense for more people than ever before.
(Bonus points: The Tribeca just received the highest possible crash-test rating from the NHTSA; 5 stars for front- and side-impact crash tests for the driver and passenger seating positions.)
While the 2008 Subaru Tribeca might not be the bold statement it once was, it should nevertheless merit a close look from the premium SUV customer.
Vastly improved engine and transmission
Slick interior
High level of dynamic handling
Excellent active and passive safety standards
Higher-end models will be pricey
Functional improvements (mirrors, windows) not so stylish
Bland exterior styling; lack of character
photo:Mark Hacking
The Tribeca also boasts a very low centre of gravity as a result of the low profile of its 6-cylinder boxer engine - which is why this engine, in a Porsche application, would be called a "flat six". This low centre of gravity means that Tribeca has less of a tendency to lean in corners, a particularly unsettling characteristic of many large SUVs.
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| The "B9" portion of the Tribeca has been dropped for 2008. |
So, again: advantage Subaru
The Tribeca doesn't exactly carve through turns like a sports car or churn up a gravel road like the World Rally Championship-spec Subaru Impreza. But it does provide a high level of traction on loose surfaces, a reasonably compliant ride over the rough stuff and more than its fair share of dynamic handling in the corners.
Price to be determined, value certain
While pricing for the 2008 Subaru Tribeca isn't expected until July, the manufacturer anticipates no significant increases over the 2007 model. (For the record, the current model line ranges in price from $41,995 to $52,495.)
What is certain, though, is the fact that the Tribeca represents significant value for the driver looking for a safe and solid family vehicle. With excellent handling capabilities, a high level of interior refinement and an improved drivetrain, this Subaru will make more sense for more people than ever before.
(Bonus points: The Tribeca just received the highest possible crash-test rating from the NHTSA; 5 stars for front- and side-impact crash tests for the driver and passenger seating positions.)
While the 2008 Subaru Tribeca might not be the bold statement it once was, it should nevertheless merit a close look from the premium SUV customer.
 |
Slick interior
High level of dynamic handling
Excellent active and passive safety standards
 |
Higher-end models will be pricey
Functional improvements (mirrors, windows) not so stylish
 |
Bland exterior styling; lack of character
photo:Mark Hacking
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