2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca: Road Test

Archived Review

2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca 

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  • MSRP: $30,695 -$33,895
  • Invoice: $28,792 -$31,571

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Our road test for the 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca help you decide if a 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

Limited 7-passenger w/nav. sys. Class Average
5 5

Sufficient power for around-town driving, but feels strained in highway passing or uphill climbs. Engine rough at idle, but smooth once under way. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb.

FUEL ECONOMY

Limited 7-passenger w/nav. sys. Class Average
4 3.8

Test B9 Tribecas averaged 18.3-19.4 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. Subaru recommends premium-grade fuel.

RIDE QUALITY

Limited 7-passenger w/nav. sys. Class Average
6 5.4

Good bump absorption overall, though some choppiness over rough surfaces. Solid body structure contributes to buttoned-down feel.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

Limited 7-passenger w/nav. sys. Class Average
6 4.1

Well-balanced in turns, with no undue body lean. Steering is linear, but transmits little road feel. Adequate braking power masked by spongy pedal.

QUIETNESS

Limited 7-passenger w/nav. sys. Class Average
7 5.2

Engine refined, whisper-quiet at cruise. Some wind rush at highway speeds. Road noise well-quelled, though tires roar on rough surfaces.

CONTROLS

Limited 7-passenger w/nav. sys. Class Average
7 6.3

Main gauges simply marked, easy to read. Fuel gauge blocked by steering wheel. Climate and audio controls neatly arranged, clearly marked, easy to access. Navigation controls intuitive, but a long reach for both driver and passenger. Nicely textured matte-finish interior panels impart upscale look and feel to cabin.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

Limited 7-passenger w/nav. sys. Class Average
7 6.7

Adequate room, though tall drivers may wish for a wider range of seat adjustments. Comfortable, supportive seats. Upright driving position. Good overall visibility, though view to the rear is obscured by thick rear pillars. Ride height only slightly elevated for easy entry/exit.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

Limited 7-passenger w/nav. sys. Class Average
7 6.2

Versatile 2nd-row seats move fore, aft up to 8 inches for ample leg room. Head space limited for 6-footers. Third-row seats sized for kids, offer no leg room if 2nd-row seats are in rear position, and are awkward to access.

CARGO ROOM

Limited 7-passenger w/nav. sys. Class Average
8 8.3

Enough space for single golf bag or several grocery bags behind raised 3rd-row seats. Third row folds flush into floor. Convenient small-item storage; 2nd row has handy console-mounted drawer that holds about five DVD cases.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

Limited 7-passenger w/nav. sys. Class Average
5 5.7

Subaru's new SUV delivers fine handling, versatile interior accommodations, and a generous list of standard equipment. However, acceleration is lackluster, and while Tribeca pricing is competitive with similarly equipped midsize SUVs, where there are more-compelling alternatives.

Total Score

Limited 7-passenger w/nav. sys. Class Average
62 56.7

Total Score: 62

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score
43
Average Score
56
High Score
66

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