2009 Subaru Tribeca: Road Test
2009 Subaru Tribeca ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $29,995 - $33,595
- Invoice: $28,311 - $31,458
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Subaru B9 Tribeca
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2009 Subaru Tribeca includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Subaru Tribeca from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Subaru Tribeca, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Subaru Tribeca help you decide if a 2009 Subaru Tribeca is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| Limited 7-passenger | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.4 |
Tribeca's engine provides enough power for most situations, though some testers want more low-end punch. The transmission is a bit tardy to kick down for more power, but the driver can partially compensate with the manual shift gate.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Limited 7-passenger | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4 |
In Consumer Guide testing, Tribeca models averaged 14.6 mpg in city/highway driving and 18.6-23.6 with mostly highway use. Tribeca uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| Limited 7-passenger | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.4 |
Tribeca's ride is absorbent, stable, and well controlled over most surfaces.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Limited 7-passenger | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.5 |
Handling response is more minivan than high-body midsize wagon. Tight turns require slowing down, but cornering lean is moderate for the height and weight. Steering is responsive if a bit numb, and Tribeca has a wide turning radius for its size. Brakes have adequate stopping control, but pedal action is somewhat spongy and non-linear.
QUIETNESS
| Limited 7-passenger | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.6 |
The engine roars at full throttle but is quiet enough at cruise. Wind rush intrudes at highway speeds, as does tire thrum on coarse pavement.
CONTROLS
| Limited 7-passenger | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.3 |
Main gauges are large and legible, but flanking fuel and temp dials are harder to see. Audio and climate controls are mostly easy to use and none are absorbed by the optional navigation system--a plus. The buttons can be confusing, and the display screen can wash out in some lighting conditions. Navigation controls are intuitive but may be a long reach for some.
DETAILS
| Limited 7-passenger | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.5 |
The expressive dashboard is formed from materials that look nice enough, but too many are hard plastic and lack the richness of those found in top competitors.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Limited 7-passenger | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.2 |
Comfortable, supportive seats provide adult-size room, but long-legged drivers may want more rearward seat travel. The ride height requires a moderate step-up into the interior but contributes to a take-charge driving stance. Aft visibility is hampered by a shallow rear window and bulky roof pillars, though large outside mirrors help.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Limited 7-passenger | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.3 |
The 2nd-row seat splits 60/40 and slides fore and aft up to 8 inches for adequate to ample legroom. Three adults won't be squeezed, but headroom is just OK for six-footers. The available 3rd-row 50/50 bench is sized for two kids, has virtually no legroom if the 2nd-row seats are fully aft, and is difficult to access.
CARGO ROOM
| Limited 7-passenger | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 8.6 |
Space behind the 2nd row is ample, but only a few grocery bags fit behind raised 3rd-row seats, which fold flush into the floor. Cabin storage is OK, but less generous than it appears. Note that in one test Tribeca, the floor storage lids fit poorly and were prone to rattling once underway.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Limited 7-passenger | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 5.8 |
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.
Total Score
| Limited 7-passenger | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 62 | 64.6 |
Total Score: 62
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
Next Step: Get a price quote from your local dealer ►
