2012 Subaru Tribeca Limited AWD (902)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2012 Subaru Tribeca Limited AWD Crossover. It is a 7-passenger SUV that continues Premium, Limited and Touring trim lines.

Heated front seats and an auxiliary air conditioning unit with headliner-mounted vents in the second and third row seats is standard. Also standard include a dual-zone automatic climate control, 8-way power driver’s seat; 4-way power passenger seat; leather touches, a 100-watt AM/FM stereo system with CD player and six speakers. All Tribeca models are pre-wired for XM^® or SIRIUS^® Satellite radio, and all feature a standard console-mounted auxiliary audio jack to connect portable audio players, such as iPods, to play through the vehicle’s audio system.

Don’t you just love all these neat techy stuff. Keeps the kids busy but in some ways it is too much like being in the space shuttle rather than simple transportation.

General Information:

Parts from the US/ Canadian 40%, Japan 35%; Engine & Transmission – Japan. It is assembled in Lafayette, Indiana, USA, Classification is SUV AWD. Cars from Subaru Forester, Impreza, Impreza WRX, Legacy, Outback & Tribeca.

Handling & Performance:

Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and a four-wheel traction control system (TCS) and Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive enhance the driving experience in ways we aren’t really aware of. And you will have to factor that in when it comes to cost.

Styling:

Styling is rather commonplace in today’s world and while simple it has an elegant exterior that gives Tribeca a strong road presence. Electroluminescent dials and subtle ambient interior footwell lighting provide a sophisticated touch. Nice.

Fit and Finish:

Always exceptional.

Cost:

A bit pricey, but as I say you must consider the unseen features that make it more than a pretty face.

Conveniences and comfort:

The second row seat features a tilt-and-slide control on both sides and an assist spring that reduces the effort needed to slide the second row seat. Molded handles ease passenger step-in to the third row, that is a 50/50 split fold-down.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you appreciate Japanese quality and workmanship this Tribeca is in good company and worth your consideration.

Recognized Competition:

Subaru Tribeca $33,000, Acura MDX $43,000, Buick Enclave $43,000, Chevrolet Traverse $31,000, Dodge Journey $32,000, Ford Edge $33,000, Honda Pilot $38,000, Hyundai Santa Fe $31,000, Kia Sorento $27,000, Mazda CX-9 $33,000, Nissan Murano $38,000, Toyota Highlander $37,000.

Good News:

Safety features AWD etc., noted, nice styling, quiet comfort,

Bad News:

Only fair fuel economy.

Standard Equipment:

3.6 liter H6 256 horsepower engine, 5-speed auto transmission, Symmetrical All Wheel Drive, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, front side and side curtain airbags, LATCH child system, rollover sensor, tire pressure monitor, vehicle dynamic control, 18” aluminum alloy wheels, fog lights, Harman/Kardon 10-speaker audio with 6-CD and XM satellite, Bluetooth, cruise control, tilt steering column, climate control, heated mirrors, wipers with de-icer, Aux audio input, leather wrapped wheel and leather trimmed upholstery, heated front seats, power driver’s seat with memory, 40/20/40 split fold down rear seat and 3^rd row 50/50 split fold down.

Gas Stats:

$3.61/ Gal avg. January 20, 2012

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

16 City and 21 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $32,495.