2008 Subaru Tribeca Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.30/5 Average
77 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The Subaru Tribeca (sorry, bingo fans, "B9" is no longer in the model name) receives some significant updates for 2008. Mechanically, the Tribeca now features an enlarged 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine for more power and torque and a revised five-speed automatic transmission said to offer smoother shifting. The rear suspension has also been softened for better ride comfort. Inside, Subaru has improved access to the third-row seat via a new design of the second-row seat release. The '08 model also has a restyled front end, abandoning last year's adventurous-but-awkward look in favor of a more conservative face.

Pros:
  • Serene ride quality, smaller size adds to maneuverability, handsome interior design.
Cons:
  • Cramped second- and third-row seats, low cargo capacity, modest handling limits, high price.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 77.00
  • Glad we did - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    We were coming up on the lease of our Sienna. We looked at several crossovers: Acadia, Edge, Murano, Pilot, CX9, Highlander. My wife had a Subie when we first met, and she asked to look at the new one. We drove all the others, and we drove this and said, "Yes." This a fun car to drive, room for kids and cargo, AWD, and we like the design. We got the gold color with tan leather. Even in the sun all day, it doesnt get that hot inside. Got it on a 42 mo lease, and we are very happy. Getting 17mpg mixed driving, but the engine only has 600 miles. Better mileage to come when fully broken in.

  • Needs some improvement - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    We have had this vehicle for approx. 26 mo. and havent had an issue with the engine and tranny. What we do have issues with is the interior coming apart,like the plastic behind the steering wheel decided it didnt want to stay clipped. As for the 7 passenger claim..mm maybe they should have called it a 51/2 passenger. an adult can fit if they sit sideways. For the drive quality my wife has beaten out many a sport car with it. Fuel economy we average 21.5-25 mpg hwy (no kidding) when we take it to the mountains for ski season otherwise the posted 16 mpg city is accurate not bad for an SUV. Considering I drive it at 80mph i cannot complain.

  • Great luxury bang for the buck - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    08 Tribeca is head and shoulders above the underpowered 07 model with ugly front looks. The drive is smooth, the design and build quality are great. Its a hungry beast, though - I cant get more than 17 mpg out of it. Other than that, beautiful car, and I am very happy with it.

  • Very Pleased - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    I purchased the 08 Tribeca 6months ago. I am very happy with the vehicle. I previously had the Audi A4 and it was one problem after another. The Tribeca is more comfortable, has a smoother drive, and is more reliable. I would get it again.

  • Nice but with some quality reliability issues - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    I have owned the car for 40 months now and honestly say I WILL NOT BUY ANOTHER TRIBECA and maybe not another Subaru. LIKES: purchase price including factory incentives was $6,000 under MSRP. It has plenty of nice standard features. I like the styling (except the Chrysler-like grill). I really like the size and cargo capacity with the seats folded. DISLIKES: fuel economy, small fuel tank, cheap and non-durable plastic cargo area material, forward blind spots caused by thick posts. Last but not least ........ I have it back to the dealer too many times for issues like rough transmission shifting, replacement of brake master cylinder, headlight bulbs are frequently blown

  • Shop Carefully - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    Rear-seat riders in 7-passenger model should not be taller than 2 feet. Check leg room carefully. Ceiling mounted seat belt for middle seat, middle row, hits rider to the right in the head. Gas mileage is terrible. Repeat, gas mileage is terrible. Nav screen darkens way too much when headlights turned on. Gas mileage is terrible. Keyless remote unreliable. If you lock car using key, also unlock with key or alarm will sound. Gas mileage is terrible. CD changer repeats same CD, doesnt change to another CD. Must be done manually. Middle seats uncomfortable.

  • Very Overlooked - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    Wow i cant believe this car isnt popular. We just bought used with 41000 miles on it the flat 6 sounds good at start up and has a nice dual exhaust. The Sport mode doesnt do anything. Acceleration is very good. Ours is Gray on black which is kind of boring because our last 2 car were silver/ gray. The Tribeca is very agile and feels sporty. the glove box has no room. We like the sunroof visor because you can have it shut with the glass tilted. the navigation works well it is very calming and doesnt sound like a computer

  • Burns oil tooo FAST and frequent bulb outagaes - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    I bought the vehicle used 1 yr ago. I discovered the oil burns very very fast. I put 4 qts of oil in the vehicle and two weeks later the dip stick was completely empty. Tires Plus informed I need to take the vehicle to the dealership due to the oil is buring entirely too fast and could cause issues to the engine. I am also experiencing issues with frequent headlight bulb outage. I replaced both left and right headlights twice over the last 4 months. Now both high beams are out and the fog lights are out. the light in the trunk is out. It flickers from time to time. I have to constantly check my oil weekly to ensure it isnt bone dry. Thread on leather seats are coming apart.

  • Ive always wanted.... - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    I read the reviews, did my research, and bought the car Ive always wanted. Ive only had it for 4 days. Things I love. The car is comfortable, easy to drive. I love the camera back up feature and the aux for my iPod. Taking my first road trip tomorrow and I cant wait to get it on the open freeway.

  • Subaru Groupie - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    This is my fourth Subaru. They have cornered the market on all wheel drive. You can beat the low center of gravity and feel for the road. My only wish is that they would widen and cushion the seats better. All in all, wouldnt trade in my Subie for anything else. Like any vehicle maintenance and good tires are the keys to the vehicles longevity. Expect 200,000 miles

Subaru Tribeca Reviews By Year:
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