2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca
What's Special About It?
Subaru expands its offering of all-wheel-drive vehicles to include its first sport-utility vehicle, the B9 Tribeca. The seven-passenger SUV enters the lineup as Subaru's flagship vehicle.
Just like all Subarus sold in the United States, the Tribeca gets power from a boxer engine, a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine rated at 250 horsepower mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift control. Symmetrical all-wheel drive and Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) are also standard equipment.
The B9 Tribeca is longer and wider than the recently redesigned Subaru Outback with 50-percent greater torsional rigidity from its unibody construction. With a tow rating of 3,500 pounds, the new SUV is capable of hauling both the family, and their activity vehicles for a weekend of fun.
In the cabin, a sculpted dash and center stack place controls at easy reach, with faux aluminum trim highlighting the design. An optional 7-inch touchscreen navigation system, a first for Subaru, is prominently located above the audio and climate controls, and soft light illuminates the cabin from the footwells, cupholders and center console.
Passenger seating is configured in a 40/20/40 split for the second-row bench, and 50/50 for the optional third-row seat. Not only does the navigation system offer a new level of Subaru luxury, but expect rear passengers to settle in and enjoy the optional rear DVD entertainment system with a 9-inch screen, two wireless headsets and a remote control.
What's Edmunds' Take?
With the successful redesign of its 2005 Legacy and Outback models, Subaru has lost its reputation for producing quirky, yet snow-capable vehicles, largely unknown beyond the cold Northern states. The Legacy and Outback have taken great leaps forward in refinement, proving that Subaru has the gumption to take on the entry-level luxury market. If the B9 Tribeca arrives in showrooms with the same level of polish, coupled with Subaru's proven all-wheel-drive system, Subaru may be able to let go of its flailing Baja sport truck, and concentrate on the SUV game instead. The B9 Tribeca goes on sale in the summer of 2005. — Kelly Toepke

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