The 2011 Subaru Tribeca has a responsive engine, seating for seven and standard all-wheel drive, but reviewers say it’s expensive. The Tribeca has standard all-wheel drive, which separates it from the midsize SUV pack slightly, but that same all-wheel drive system has a negative impact on fuel economy. Plus, the Tribeca’s starting price is so high you can get optional all-wheel drive on most of the competition and still save money.
The 2011 Subaru Tribeca carries over unchanged from the previous year.
Even the Tribeca's performance is simply middle-of-the-road. On the plus side, the Tribeca's all-wheel-drive system delivers the assurance of solid footing in a variety of climates, a feature that sets it apart from the usual front-wheel-drive crossovers. Maneuvering in tight city confines is made easier by the Subaru's smaller dimensions. The third-row seat is for part-time convenience, not long-distance trips. The 2011 Subaru Tribeca is a seven-passenger midsize crossover SUV that is offered in Premium, Limited and Touring trim levels.
The Premium trim starts with 18-inch alloy wheels, tri-zone automatic climate control, a tilt (but not telescoping) steering wheel, heated power front seats, full power accessories, cruise control, a six-speaker CD/MP3 sound system with an auxiliary input jack, a 7-inch display screen and keyless entry.
The 2011 Subaru Tribeca is powered by a 3.6-liter, horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine that produces 256 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. Every Tribeca features an all-wheel-drive system that sends 55 percent of the power to the rear wheels in normal driving.
Safety
Standard safety features for the 2011 Subaru Tribeca include antilock brakes (with brake assist), traction control, stability control with a rollover sensor, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and active front head restraints.
The Subaru Tribeca has not been rated using the government's new, more strenuous 2011 crash-testing procedure.
Interior Design and Special Features
The Subaru Tribeca's interior offers a taste of excitement, as the sweeping wraparound dash features complex organic shapes that blend smoothly into the center console. The Tribeca's front seats provide decent comfort for the average-sized driver, but the lack of a telescoping steering wheel compromises seating for taller adults.
Most competitors in this price range offer superior third-row accommodations.
Driving Impressions
Unlike most other Subaru vehicles, which tend toward fun and lively, the Tribeca takes a step back. Once again, the 2011 Subaru Tribeca proves itself to be able-bodied, but lacking in spirit.
Once again, the 2011 Subaru Tribeca's sole engine option is a 3.6-liter flat-six engine with 256 horsepower and 247 pounds-feet of torque on tap. The 2011 Subaru Tribeca's 8.4 inches of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive may scream off-road prowess, but this mid-size crossover is better suited to the suburban environment. Tribeca's interior has a futuristic theme with flowing lines that wrap around the driver and front passenger. The 2011 Subaru Tribeca is also one of the safest vehicles in its class, scoring full marks in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) crash tests. Whichever trim you choose in the lineup—Premium, Limited, or Touring—fog lights, 18-inch wheels, power driver and passenger seat, heated front seats, and third-row seating are standard equipment.
