5 Star Reviews for 2008 Subaru Tribeca

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 21 through 30 of 77.00
  • 2008 Subaru Tribeca Review - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    I have had the Tribeca since April 2008 and put almost 6000 miles on it so far. The handling of the AWD Tribeca is darn near neutral and the turn in spot on. its fun to drive and comfortable on road trips or in town. The interior and exterior looks compliment each other. I use the transmission in sport mode all the time, either leaving it in drive or shifting up and down. the engine is a lot more responsive & mileage doesnt seem to suffer. One thing that bugs me is that the transmission shifting seems out of sync with the engine at times. The Tribeca doubles well as a tent and carries a lot of "stuff". I dont like the puddle lights though but thats a nil point IMO. Next thing is XM radio.

  • Great Discovery - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    A real find. All the equipment of an Acura RDX and more. 6 cyl and reg gas a real plus. Drives like a sports car with plenty of power and excellent road hugging ability. Typical excellent Japanese quality of fit and finish. Very happy with the discovery.

  • Best all wheel drive system - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    We looked at all other SUVs and nothing came close, the design alone indicates how they take everything in consideration they take pride in designing a one of a kind, all other SUVs have plain dashes, also the engine is like no other, way ahead in all aspects. The all wheel drive has 33% less parts than the rest, reliability and resale far ahead of the others, don, t believe all these so called experts?

  • Subaru fan - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    This is our second Subaru - also own 2003 Forester. It snows where we live and the Subaru AWD is arguably the best on the market. Wanted a larger Subaru, but did not like the styling of the original B9 Tribeca, nor its lack of power and premium fuel requirement. All these objections overcome with the new version. It handles like a smaller vehicle, is very secure feeling, and comfortable (except for adults in the third row, but we knew this when we bought it - it is fine for children.

  • Energy Drain - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    I love everything about this car - except two issues that Ive had. I have a "phantom" energy drain that leaves me stranded due to a dead battery. Its random, unpredictable and frustrating. I also have had to have the power steering fixed twice - they actually needed to put a new pump (?), regardless, at such low mileage Im surprised.

  • It replaced my BMW - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    I have had BMWs for well over 20 yrs. In looking for a new all wheel drive car after moving to Colorado, the only thing that came close to the feel and performance of both my BMWs was this vehicle. In the snow it will out perform anything out there. Soild on the road, great perfomance for a 6 and good fuel mileage. Planning to trade in my second BMW in the fall for a Subaru sedan

  • Great car - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    The car is great performance/reliability/safety wise. Only complaint: airbag recall that took too long to get fixed.

  • Great vehicle - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    The vehicle has good power and does not have to shift down to pull hills. I averaged approximately 23 miles per gallon on the trip from Virginia to Tennessee at speeds from 55 to 75. The seats are supportive. The navigation system needs street number and address info before it will initiate. Good information display. Some people might like more adjustment in the steering wheel position. So far it has been very good.

  • My Subaru Tribeca - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    This is my 1st Subaru and the 1st SUV. I have about 700 miles on it and love it so far. Ive been averaging 18.6 mpg in the city. Once in a while I can hear the rear seat belts making noise, especially if you have something leaning against them. Overall very comfortable ride, fairly smooth. Radio controls on the steering wheel are nice, but I manage to hit them accidentally when turning somehow. Gas cap rests on the exterior paint during refuel, dont really like that, but its minor. Im 5.9" and steering wheel adjustment is fine, no problems, plenty of leg room. My insurance went down a little due to Subaru being a safer vehicle. It handles like a smaller car, and has plenty of cargo room.

  • Outstanding SUV! - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
    By -

    The first Subaru weve owned and we love it! We were looking at the Honda Pilot(booring look), Toyota Higlander Hybrid(cheapo interior, drives like truck), GMC Acadia(drives like a bigger gas guzzling truck),Acura MDX (liked this but not as much as the Subaru for lots of little reasons not to mention value). The Tribeca immediately stood out. The build quality is excellent. The vehicle exudes confidence between the engine, all-wheel-drive, skid control, and all of the other safety features. The flat engine is extremely smooth even during hard acceleration(almost flooring it). The 3rd row is a little cramped but we only have 2 kids and arent going cross-country in it either. Great car!

Subaru Tribeca Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area