• Overall
• Performance
• Exterior
• Interior
• Safety
• Reliability
• Prices
• Photo Gallery

Subaru Tribeca - What the Auto Press Says

The 2009 Subaru Tribeca ranks 13 out of 20 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 82 published reviews and test drives of the Subaru Tribeca, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

While auto reviewers praise the Subaru Tribeca's powerful, responsive ride and excellent performance in crash tests, some wonder if it offers enough to distinguish itself from the competition.

Redesigned in 2008, the Tribeca remains virtually unchanged for this year. It retains its ability to seat either five passengers in two rows or seven passengers with an optional third row. "Subaru's crossover SUV is pleasant to drive and includes many standard features," says Consumer Guide. "It's not an especially quiet vehicle, though, and its interior design and materials may turn off shoppers. Comparably equipped, many of Tribeca's rivals are roomier, quieter, more refined, and similarly priced." These include the moderately more affordable Chevrolet Traverse, Mazda CX-7 and Honda Pilot.

The 2009 Tribeca is available in five- or seven-passenger configurations, and in base or Limited trim levels. A new Special Edition includes leather seating and an upgraded 160-watt audio system.

• "Fresh off a much-needed styling refresh in 2008, Subaru's Legacy-based crossover enters the new model year with no changes. The Tribeca offers exceptional ride quality and decent grunt off the line." -- Car and Driver
• "Supportive seats, a roomy second row, and car-like handling impress owners. However, significant engine noise, a wide turning radius, and spongy brakes may disappoint those looking for the more refined ride found in rival SUVs." -- Car Gurus
• "So it's good in a field of good crossovers. Which leaves us where? In a big, big field." -- AutoWeek
• "As an alternative, the Land Rover LR2 costs about the same, and gives you off-road capabilities and Bluetooth cell phone integration. We recently reviewed the Mitsubishi Outlander, which costs substantially less, has more cabin tech, and gets better mileage." -- CNET
• "I have to wonder what keeps me from committing to a Subaru. They're very practical cars with superior all-wheel-drive systems and rugged reputations. But there seems to be something that keeps me from becoming a full-fledged, card-carrying Subie groupie. The 2009 Tribeca left me with the same, 'So, what's new?' feeling that I've felt about other Subarus in the past (pre-MotherProof.com days included)." -- Mother Proof

Tribeca Performance - 7.5 (Good)

The 2009 Tribeca's powerful acceleration and responsive handling impress reviewers -- but they still don't find it very fun to drive, especially when compared to its sportier crossover competitors. "The Tribeca's power is on par with that of Honda's latest Pilot," says Car and Driver. "Road manners are above reproach, but don't expect lots of gusto." continue

Tribeca Exterior - 6.9 (Mediocre)

Reviewers have mixed reviews on the Tribeca's conservative exterior, with some appreciating last year's redesign and others finding it too plain. Gone "is the strange, areo-inspired visage," reports Motor Trend. "The nose job resulted in a face some call too generic ('Chrysler? Kia? What is that?'), but it's clean and pleasant-looking." continue

Tribeca Interior - 6.9 (Mediocre)

With plenty of cargo space and a stylish, practical layout, the Tribeca's cabin earns decent marks from most reviewers. "Inside, Subaru has done a terrific job of merging efficiency and form," says the Detroit News. The Tribeca seats five in two spacious rows, or seven with an optional third row. However, many reviewers dislike the third row because it cuts down on overall seating and cargo space. continue

Tribeca Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)

The 2009 Subaru Tribeca does very well in government crash tests. It also comes with plenty of safety features and is designated as an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety "Top Safety Pick." However, there are persistent complaints regarding the Tribeca's rearward visibility. continue

Tribeca Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)

The 2009 Subaru Tribeca reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Tribeca is covered by Subaru's three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. continue