2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca?
The B9 Tribeca is Subaru's newest vehicle, as well as its largest and most expensive. Based on the same platform used for the Legacy sedan and wagon, the B9 Tribeca is meant for those consumers who want the look and confidence of an SUV without the associated trade-offs, such as a harsh ride quality and poor handling. For power, the B9 Tribeca is equipped with a 3.0-liter, horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine. It makes 250 horsepower and puts power to all four wheels through a standard five-speed automatic transmission. The B9 Tribeca's interior is large like that of a midsize SUV, and it will seat up to seven passengers when the optional third-row seat is ordered. But despite its size, legroom is tight in the second and third rows of seats. A sweeping dashboard greets drivers, and Subaru has equipped the B9 Tribeca with a long list of standard and optional features. There are two trim levels available for both five- and seven-passenger models. The starting base models come with features like dual-zone automatic climate control, power front seats, CD/MP3 audio, and a trip computer. The more upscale Limited trim adds leather-trimmed seating with front-seat heaters, an upgraded audio system and a moonroof. You can also order a navigation system and a DVD-based rear-seat entertainment system on seven-passenger Limited models. In terms of safety, all Subaru B9 Tribecas come standard with front side airbags, head-protecting side-curtain airbags, antilock brakes, a stability control system, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. Fully loaded, a B9 Tribeca Limited will list at almost $40,000 but a more sensible ordering approach to the B9 will bring the price back down to the low 30s.

Advantages of the 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca:

• Upscale design and features
• Long list of standard safety equipment
• Available seven-passenger seating

Objections to the 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca:

• Lacks storage space for small personal items
• Cumbersome access to third-row seat
• Higher-than-average price

Editor's Advice:
The 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca meets just about every requirement for a midsize crossover SUV. It offers the latest luxury and safety features, drives well and can seat seven people or haul a decent amount of cargo. Unfortunately, it doesn't excel in any particular category, and it's saddled with some ergonomic flaws and front-end styling that will probably be as well received as a flatulent person in an elevator. The B9 Tribeca is certainly worth a look but we’d probably be putting our crossover SUV money elsewhere.