Subaru’s 2008 Tribeca has been completely redesigned. Now it’s more powerful, has appealing and bolder styling, and comes with the most advanced version of symmetrical all-wheel drive available.
For years, Subaru and all-wheel drive have been synonymous as this manufacturer has been a pioneer in AWD. Now they’ve moved this safety feature up a notch, and other manufacturers have some catching-up to do.
The system, as explained to me by Subaru’s spokesman, has the most effective traction and handling system ever made. It’s a complete system composed of a lightweight horizontally opposed boxer engine mounted low in the chassis, plus full-time all-wheel drive with variable torque distribution. His detailed technical explanation was more than I could comprehend, but it all became obvious when driving over challenging, twisty roads with very sharp curves.
Before the drive, I did a walk-around to admire the new look. The 2008 Tribeca model is both streamlined and powerful, with a new, wider, taller grille and a wider hood design. The grille is now integrated into the front bumper and features a new chrome spread-wing design, with the Subaru star cluster badge as the focal point.
The hood line has been raised, and the new headlights seem to widen and heighten the new Tribeca, giving it a more muscular SUV-like appearance.
The 2008 Tribeca also has larger rear-quarter windows that help improve visibility for the driver, as well as providing a more spacious feeling for third-row occupants in the seven-passenger models. All this sits on new, dual-five-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels to accentuate this vehicle’s sporty character.
Another noticeable improvement is the vehicle’s power. Under the hood is a six-cylinder boxer engine that generates 256 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. This power is linked to a five-speed electronically controlled automatic with Sport Shift manual mode transmission.
When I got into the driver’s seat I used the power controls to raise my elevation. To my surprise, in spite of its massive front end, I had excellent downward visibility. Then I was off and running, and that’s when the real enjoyment began.
What became noticeable immediately was the interior noise level; it’s hushed with no air-rush noise to be heard. However, that changed when I hit 70 mph. I could then hear the air-rush created by the sideview mirror. The PR man who was riding with me explained that it was caused when they enlarged the size of the rear window panels. I considered the air-rush noise a safety-related speed reminder as the Tribeca can reach high speed quickly. I asked the PR man about the interior safety and was told the new model contains all the latest available, including air bags built into the seats.
We came upon some mountains roads with wiggly turns, and the symmetrical AWD proved its worth. I felt secure as I barreled around each bend in the road. What was even more amazing, on the occasions I had an opportunity to pass a slower moving vehicle, was that the Tribeca responded with instant power even though I was traveling at a high speed.
The test vehicle was the five-passenger version with a base price of $30,640, including tow gear to trailer up to 3,500 pounds. A seven-passenger model is also available, and there are numerous options, including XM Satellite radio and a navigational system. One thing is for sure: Once prospective buyers see the new Tribeca, Subaru could be selling a lot of them.
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