Skip advert
Advertisement

Subaru Tribeca B9

Everybody has to grow up one day, even boy-racers. But what can they turn to when their Subaru Impreza STi has lost its appeal and the run to the rally stage has been replaced by a drive to Mothercare?

The Tribeca is an SUV with handling that matches its performance. However, questionable styling and interior plastics could harm its chances when it goes on sale here in late 2006.

Everybody has to grow up one day, even boy-racers. But what can they turn to when their Subaru Impreza STi has lost its appeal and the run to the rally stage has been replaced by a drive to Mothercare?

Subaru says its Tribeca SUV is the answer. It is already on sale in the US, where it competes with BMW's X5, Nissan's Murano and Volvo's XC90. It has not been developed as the ultimate off-roader, but Subaru claims its handling on tarmac will be second to none.

We tried the Tribeca on some twisty US roads and came away impressed. This is not an SUV that lumbers from corner to corner with huge amounts of body roll and lifeless steering. Instead, the chassis remains composed, and it is closer in feel to an X5 than an XC90. The traditional Subaru driving spirit definitely shines through.

Sadly, you can hear little of the usual Subaru boxer engine note, even though a flat-six powerplant lies under the bonnet. There is no manual gearbox available, but the five-speed automatic copes well and performance is lively, thanks to the car's 241bhp and 297Nm of torque. To do well in this sector, however, Subaru needs a diesel alternative - and while the Japanese company is developing an oil-burning powerplant, it is not expected for some months.

There are other problems. The interior may be better than in any Subaru we have seen before, but its plasticky feel is hardly going to have designers at Volvo or BMW worried. Nor is the new Subaru family look likely to give rival stylists sleepless nights.

The driving position is not perfectas the steering adjusts for reach only, but the cabin is roomy. Five and seven-seat versions will be available, with UK prices starting at around £30,000.

While the Tribeca seems unlikely to tempt BMW X5 buyers, it could woo mellowing Impreza WRX STi drivers and other ageing fans of hot hatches.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £3,970 off RRP*Used from £8,795
MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £27,005Avg. savings £7,778 off RRP*Used from £11,890
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £4,647 off RRP*Used from £10,495
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £14,575Avg. savings £1,864 off RRP*Used from £7,850
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Geely EX5 SUV to arrive in October, starting at £32k
Geely EX5 - front

New Geely EX5 SUV to arrive in October, starting at £32k

This new electric SUV is coming soon to the UK from Volvo and Lotus parent company, Geely
News
15 Sep 2025
Nissan Qashqai to finally go electric, but hybrid model will remain
Nissan Qashqai electric render Avarvarii - front 3/4

Nissan Qashqai to finally go electric, but hybrid model will remain

There will be an overlap of powertrains for the big-selling SUV
News
15 Sep 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Savour the Scandi cool of a Polestar 4 at only £334 a month
Polestar 4 - cornering, low shot

Car Deal of the Day: Savour the Scandi cool of a Polestar 4 at only £334 a month

Fancy something smart and sophisticated? You won’t look back with the Polestar 4. It’s our Deal of the Day for September 13
News
13 Sep 2025