Sluggish sales prompted Subaru to go back to the drawing board regarding its questionably styled and questionably named crossover.
Thankfully, the new rendition is much better looking. I emphatically approve the dropping of "B9" from its moniker. For 2008, it's the Subaru Tribeca.
If you recall the previous version had an extremely unusual bulbous nose. For 2008, Tribeca's nose is more appealing. And that's not all. The greatly revised exterior design is more conservative and mainstream. I like Tribeca's new look.
The 2008 Subaru Tribeca should garner many more favorable looks than its predecessor. Maybe some of those that like what they see will take a much closer look including a test drive. That's where Tribeca shines brightly.
Not only did Subaru rework the sheet metal, but they dropped in a more powerful 3.6-liter six-cylinder boxer engine. Rated at 256 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, the new powerplant puts out 11 more horsepower and 32 more pound-feet of torque than last year. Plus, the new engine now burns regular unleaded fuel instead of premium.
Behind the engine is a substantially revised five-speed automatic transmission and Subaru's noteworthy Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system. Enhancing the AWD system are standard Variable Torque Distribution (VTD), standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) and four-wheel Traction Control System (TCS).
With the new, more powerful engine, the 2008 Subaru Tribeca accelerates noticeably better off the line. There's also plenty of power for merging onto highways, and for passing.
I'm a huge fan of Subaru's AWD system which gives Tribeca sure-footed traction for foul-weather driving. I also found the recalibrated rear suspension, which has been designed to improve comfort, to my liking.
The 2008 Subaru Tribeca is offered in two trim levels (base and Limited) and each can be had with five- or seven-passenger seating. For added passenger comfort, the seven-passenger model also features an auxiliary rear cabin air conditioner with controls in the second row.
The seven-passenger Tribeca can also be equipped with an optional rear-seat DVD entertainment system. The base Tribeca comes very well equipped. The Limited model adds extras like leather upholstery, upgraded audio system, and power moonroof.
An optional touch-screen navigation system is available for Limited models and it includes XM satellite radio and a handy rear backup camera.
New for 2008 on seven-passenger models, the second row seat now features a tilt-and-slide control on both the driver's and passenger's side and a new assist spring that reduces the effort needed to slide the second row seat.
Also new are molded assist grab handles on the lower C-pillars to ease stepping into the third row. As you might expect, though, the third row is not spacious enough for adults.
I was also disappointed that there isn't much legroom for second row passengers when the front seats are in their rear most position. If your family is tall, Tribeca might cramp your style.
I'm tall and I found ample head and legroom up front. Overall, the Tribeca delivers a pleasing and confident ride. I like the recalibrated rear suspension that was designed to improve ride comfort. But there was a bit more engine noise in the cabin than I expected. Maybe a better insulation package is in order.
From a driver's standpoint, I like the cockpit feel as it places all the controls within easy reach. I also liked the outside illumination that provided lighting under the vehicle at night. This was included in the Convenience Group 2 ($507) and it made it easier to enter/exit the cabin at night.
Pricing for the five-passenger Subaru Tribeca starts at around $30k. A top-of-the-line seven-passenger model with a rear seat DVD entertainment system and Navigation system runs closer to $40K. This all-new 2008 Subaru Tribeca is worth a look from those seeking a stylish and confident crossover.
2008 Subaru Tribeca
Engine: 3.6-liter (256 hp) H6
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Drive type: AWD
Fuel economy: 16 city/21 highway
Base price: $35,995
As tested: $38,005 (including $645 for destination)
Web site: www.subaru.com