When the Subaru B9 Tribeca first launched for the 2006 model year, it represented many things to many people. A crossover for some, a means to weekend adventure for others—and even a step up from an Outback or Forester for loyal Subaru fans.
Though it came into existence around the time Subaru was contemplating taking their product lineup more mainstream, the Tribeca’s look was anything but. Among many other things, it had one of the most distinctive (read: ugliest) SUV fascias on the road.
So, what was this strangely-named, weirdly-styled SUV all about? Tribeca is an abbreviation for a New York neighborhood called ‘Triangle Below Canal Street’. It’s built in the USA and not sold in Subaru’s home country, Japan. Unlike most of its competition, Tribeca only came in an AWD configuration—which can help make the shopping process a little simpler.
Furthering this goal was the single powerplant and transmission option. Namely, it consisted of a three-litre flat-six engine and five-speed automatic transmission. Power was rated at 250 horsepower for the 2006 model and 245 for 2007. If you’re looking for a V8 engine or towing capacity of more than 3,500 lbs., you’ll have to shop elsewhere.
Taking a place in the pricier and more upscale side of its marketplace meant that all Tribeca models came very nicely equipped. Dual-zone climate control, a sunroof, power everything, and heated, power-adjustable cloth seats were standard. Five or seven-passenger seating configurations were available, and stability control was included to help keep everyone on board safe.
The Tribeca Limited added some visual upgrades inside and out, as well as leather seating and a premium stereo with CD-changer. Top-line Tribeca models got navigation, too.
Given the first-generation Tribeca’s relatively short life, the owner community online is relatively small. Those who have taken to the internet to share their experiences tend to rave about the Tribeca’s futuristic and sophisticated interior styling, plenty of space, uniqueness and mainly quiet and comfortable ride.
Subaru’s ‘Symmetrical’ AWD was another big plus for many shoppers. With no driver involvement, the system continually and variably powers all four wheels—meaning automatic, fuss-free traction in any condition. One member of a Subaru Tribeca owner’s forum said he “never once felt at risk” in bad weather.
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| 2007 Subaru Tribeca |
Though it came into existence around the time Subaru was contemplating taking their product lineup more mainstream, the Tribeca’s look was anything but. Among many other things, it had one of the most distinctive (read: ugliest) SUV fascias on the road.
So, what was this strangely-named, weirdly-styled SUV all about? Tribeca is an abbreviation for a New York neighborhood called ‘Triangle Below Canal Street’. It’s built in the USA and not sold in Subaru’s home country, Japan. Unlike most of its competition, Tribeca only came in an AWD configuration—which can help make the shopping process a little simpler.
Furthering this goal was the single powerplant and transmission option. Namely, it consisted of a three-litre flat-six engine and five-speed automatic transmission. Power was rated at 250 horsepower for the 2006 model and 245 for 2007. If you’re looking for a V8 engine or towing capacity of more than 3,500 lbs., you’ll have to shop elsewhere.
Taking a place in the pricier and more upscale side of its marketplace meant that all Tribeca models came very nicely equipped. Dual-zone climate control, a sunroof, power everything, and heated, power-adjustable cloth seats were standard. Five or seven-passenger seating configurations were available, and stability control was included to help keep everyone on board safe.
The Tribeca Limited added some visual upgrades inside and out, as well as leather seating and a premium stereo with CD-changer. Top-line Tribeca models got navigation, too.
Given the first-generation Tribeca’s relatively short life, the owner community online is relatively small. Those who have taken to the internet to share their experiences tend to rave about the Tribeca’s futuristic and sophisticated interior styling, plenty of space, uniqueness and mainly quiet and comfortable ride.
Subaru’s ‘Symmetrical’ AWD was another big plus for many shoppers. With no driver involvement, the system continually and variably powers all four wheels—meaning automatic, fuss-free traction in any condition. One member of a Subaru Tribeca owner’s forum said he “never once felt at risk” in bad weather.
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| Subaru Tribeca 2007 |