Overview & Reviews

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.

• Serene ride quality, smaller size adds to maneuverability, handsome interior design.

• Cramped second- and third-row seats, low cargo capacity, modest handling limits, high price.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 77.00

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  Great value in a crossover - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
  By Pepe_V - October 9 - 9:20 pm

  Ive driven nearly 3,000 miles on my new Tribeca. I previously drove a Cadillac STS, and wanted a comfortable, sporty ride, that didnt require me to sit so low to the ground. My Tribeca is very comfortable, sporty (for this kind of vehicle), and versatile with the room in back and fold down seats. The nav system is inconsistent - sometimes its great, others, like a trip to central OH last week, it wants to send you 100 miles out of your way. Gas mileage could be better. The 2008 model is good looking, with a smooth engine and terrific all wheel drive at a nice price. It also has lots of storage, cup holders and power ports for family use. Put this on your short list!

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  Amazing experience - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
  By aftervolvo - August 21 - 3:33 pm

  This is my first Subaru and I am very happy with it. After 3 months test driving Lexus, BMW, Toyota, Acura, and Honda SUVs I finally decided for the 2008 Tribeca. Two months after my purchase, I am still very happy with my choice.

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  A great vehicle, but dont get the nav - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
  By APM - August 18 - 3:10 pm

  This is my 4th Subaru. They are a very reliable car, and great in winter weather. The fit and finish of the car is superb. The interior is quite roomy both front and rear, and I like the styling. I looked at BMW and Lexus, and I bought the Subaru. To my taste, the exterior looks just like every other crossover. Its nice, but not distinctive. The interior has high style and comfort. It handles very well, and has just the right amount of power. Braking is spectacular. I am not comfortable with the way the transmission shifts, particularly on hills.

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  dont do it - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
  By dissappointed - August 2 - 10:53 pm

  I had a forester before the tribeka. Loved it and decided to stay with subaru. I have been so very disappointed with the tribeka. Sure it rides well and is easy to handle, but the small gas tank is a BIG problem!!! i have to fill the gas tank every two or three days and find myself almost running out of gas on a regular basis. I have had the car for 2 years and i still cant get used to this.This is a major design flaw. At 18 mpg (ouch) the tank should be a 2 gallon and not 15.

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  Have had them all, and now? - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
  By Marty - June 16 - 1:36 pm

  Have had Tribeca 3 weeks and put 1500 miles on. A few defects found, but probably from Dealer roughness. Car rides nice, fairly quite and smooth. Have had WAY TOO many vehicles,and just traded in a Hyundai Santa Fe Limited. There are trade-offs, but I would put the Santa Fe first for now. Still happy with the choice, but time will tell. Getting 19 MPG so far. Rate a BUY for good value!

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  Did not meet expecations - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
  By Briofny - May 22 - 6:00 pm

  I purchased the car in April of 08, and just hit 27k miles. Small gas tank, but mileage not bad for an SUV. The fit of the interior of the car is disappointing, loose pieces every where, & the rear hatch is not designed to strategically close when packing. Also, what is the point of the rear blower if I cant control it from the front, my kids cant reach it. The look of the car is great, but I cant justify the looks versus the quality I expect for the prices. A+ on the handling and engine (although Subaru wants me to change the tranny fluid already)! C on interior quality and pointing out as another post did, who scans on the radio any more, let me change my presets from the steering wheel

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  When is leather not leather? - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
  By Wil12345 - March 31 - 12:33 am

  We have had this car for about a year and a half. It rides well, drives well and has been reliable. Only two complaints. Windshield is very poor quality and breaks with the slightest touch of a pebble. Leather interior is mostly vinyl. After a small tear, I found that the only part of the seat that is leather is the small section in the middle of the seat surface. The entire rest of the seats including the bolsters on the seat surface are made of vinyl. No happy about paying for leather and not even getting full leather seating surfaces! Contacted Subaru and they told me that customers like vinyl better. Sounds like a way for Subaru to save money!

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  Somewhat Disapointed in Tribeca - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
  By jpdinnj - March 9 - 3:40 pm

  Current mileage 2000. Transmission clunks hard into first gear downshifting to a stop; A/C is not cold enough for a cabin of this size - dealer said it was overcharged; suspension clunking sound made from the front wheels when hitting slightest of bumps – reminds me of bad ball joints in an old car; acceleration at cruising speed not smooth, instead feels out of balance; gas cap rests on exterior paint during refuel, need telescoping steering wheel; back seats wobble and make noise as does the rear seat belt from the ceiling; exhaust makes tinny vibration sound when accelerating hard. Expected more from this vehicle.

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  2008 and i have changed 8 - 10 headlights - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
  By lvilletribeca - November 23 - 1:06 am

  This car has the worst reliable headlights of any car I have ever owned. Every 6 months and they need changing. Gas mileage is not good and the care is noisy. On the positive side, other than brakes and headlights I have had low maintenance. I would think hard before i acquired another Subaru.

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  Safe and Secure - 2008 Subaru Tribeca
  By Bigtime - September 5 - 8:56 pm

  I leased this vehicle for my sons who went off to school. This is a solid vehicle with excellent safety ratings. It is a substantial vehicle that handles whatever the weather brings. In 3 years mileage will be up substantially for all manufacturers when it it time for a new vehicle. What sold me was the overall passenger room, the styling and safety features. I have not regretted the lease for even a moment. I wish that I were driving it instead of my kids.