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

Subaru Tribeca - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Subaru Tribeca ranks 24 out of 31 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 85 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 engine, responsive ride and well-equipped cabin, some wonder if it offers enough to distinguish itself from the competition. In fact, there are several more affordable and fuel efficient midsize SUVs that are worth a look if you’re considering the Tribeca.

The Subaru Tribeca’s strengths are its seven-passenger seating (newly standard for 2010) and Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Other than that though, it’s a merely average (and easily forgettable) choice in a segment full of more affordable and well-rounded vehicles.

With a base price around $31,000, the Tribeca is one of the pricier vehicles in its class. Further detracting from its value is a 16/21 mpg fuel economy rating, which is on the low side for the class. Even if you need seating for seven, there are plenty of better choices available. "So it's good in a field of good crossovers,” says AutoWeek of the Tribeca. “Which leaves us where? In a big, big field."

One standout SUV in the field is the Dodge Journey. It costs a whopping $10,000 less than the Tribeca (even with the extra-cost third-row seat) and boasts considerably higher 19/25 mpg fuel economy. Another option is the seven-seat Suzuki XL7, which costs about $6,000 less than the Tribeca and achieves 17/24 mpg fuel economy. Finally, the class leader, the Chevrolet Traverse, boasts the same fuel economy with seating for eight (one more than the Tribeca) and still costs about $2,000 less than the Subaru. However, none of these options offer standard all-wheel drive. In fact, the Tribeca is the only vehicle in its class to do so.

If seven-passenger seating is important to you, the 2010 Tribeca might be worth the extra cash. However, if you can make do with seating for five, consider buying a 2009 Tribeca. You may be able to snag a discount as dealers make way for the 2010s on their lots. The 2010 Tribeca comes in several trims -- the new base Premium as well as the mid-level Limited and new top-of-the-line Touring model.

• "Subaru's crossover SUV is pleasant to drive and includes many standard features. 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.” -- Consumer Guide
• "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
• "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…Tribeca left me with the same, 'So, what's new?' feeling that I've felt about other Subarus in the past." -- Mother Proof

Tribeca Performance - 7.5 (Good)

The 2010 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 offers exceptional ride quality and decent grunt off the line,” says Car and Driver. The Tribeca’s other weak point is its fuel economy, which is relatively low for the class. Read More

Tribeca Exterior - 6.9 (Mediocre)

Reviewers give mixed reviews to the Tribeca's conservative exterior, which some find too plain after a redesign in recent years. “Gone too 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." Read More

Tribeca Interior - 6.8 (Mediocre)

With plenty of cargo space and a stylish yet practical layout, the Tribeca's cabin earns decent marks from most reviewers. "The Tribeca interior is very modern, yet very functional with upscale materials and excellent ergonomics,” says MSN. While a third row was previously optional, the Tribeca now provides one standard and seats seven. Still, many reviewers dislike the third row because it cuts down on overall seating and cargo space. Read More

Tribeca Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)

The 2010 Subaru Tribeca does very well in government crash tests. It fares even better in insurance industry tests and is designated a "Top Safety Pick." Nonetheless, reviewers have persistent complaints regarding the Tribeca's rearward visibility. Read More

Tribeca Reliability - NA

The Tribeca is covered by Subaru's three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Read More