Vehicle: 2008 Subaru Tribeca Premier Package
Price as tested: CDN$52495

Performance: The revised Tribeca finally got the power it needed. Gone is the sluggish 245hp 3.0L flat-6 and come with the new 256 hp 3.6L. Although 10 ponies don’t look much, it feels more powerful and responsive when the driver needs it. As for torque, it jumps from 247 to 215 lb/ft of torque. Once again, it isn’t a significant jump but works much better when both arrive at 4400 rpm. The extra horses and torque make for a much better use of Tribeca’s chassis. It also mates with a 5-speed Sportshift that matched with the engine well. Although we are disappointed its not the rumored 3.0L Biturbo, this 3.6 already got the job done relatively well. We just wish Subaru engineers are able to message 30 more horses to be competitive in this segment.

Handling: As one expects from a Subaru, Tribeca got a wonderfully stiff chassis and well-calibrated suspension. The assymetrical AWD works exceptionally well with its chassis. The result is the Tribeca feels more like a jacked-up sportswagon than an SUV. The steering is typical Subaru sharp and precise without being overly sensitive on the highway. Ride quality is comfort, the well-damped suspension absorbs every bumps and nuts.

Brakes: With Tribeca’s 4-wheel discs, 4-channel/4 sensor ABS, its braking performance is nothing less than impressive especially when you consider it weights close to 2 tons. The stopping distance is short while pedal feel is solid.

Interior: Tribeca has always been regarded as the best interior Subaru has ever made, its revised version is no exception. Better yet, Subaru has improved its use of materials even further. The wraparound dashboard with aluminum trim give it a very classy and elegant feel, which is something we never said regarding Subaru interiors.

Unfortunately, its 3rd row of seats remain cramped and uncovered by side airbags.

Conclusion: Although the revised Tribeca finally receives the engine and styling that it desperately needed in day 1, it still hasn’t reached the class leading status yet. We just hope the complete rehaul will give it a more a sensibly designed package, especially regarding its side airbag and 3rd row seats.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2008 SUBARU TRIBECA
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Performance: 3/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 4/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 4/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 2/5
Value-for-money: 2/5

Overall rating: 3.25/5