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2012 Subaru Tribeca

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Overview

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2012 Subaru Tribeca Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 6.5

With a number of 7-passenger SUVs on the market, what's so special about the 2012 Subaru Tribeca? For starters, every Tribeca is equipped with an advanced and capable all-wheel-drive system, a comforting thought for those whose daily commute sometimes includes snow, rain or even dry, curvy roads. Subaru's unusual boxer-engine design lowers the vehicle's center of gravity and improves vehicle stability, and the Tribeca rates well in the government's front- and side-impact crash tests. The Tribeca's roomy interior coddles its passengers and stimulates its driver with loads of features. And while the same enthusiasm is harder to generate for the styling of this largest Subaru ever, it's pleasantly attractive, thanks to rhinoplasty in 2008 to address the snout with which it came to market.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you're a Subaru devotee whose family is too large for an Outback or Forester, the 7-passenger Tribeca is the logical choice. First-time Subaru buyers will find the Tribeca's good fuel economy, confident handling, strong resale and proven reliability very inviting.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you need room for seven adults, the Tribeca's child-sized third-row seating falls short, and the Tribeca's side-curtain airbags do not extend to protect the third-row passengers.

KBB Expert Ratings

Overall Rating

6.5
Driving Dynamics

6.8
Comfort & Convenience

6.8
Design: Interior & Exterior

5.8
Value

5.8
Safety

7.9

How It Ranks

#56

out of 59

MPG

#39

out of 59

Horsepower

View all rankings

Consumer Rating

8.8 out of 10

View all
consumer ratings

2012 Subaru Tribeca Low/wide front photo

What's New for 2012

Other than a revised head-restraint design, the Subaru Tribeca sees no major changes for 2012.

Driving the Tribeca

2012 Subaru Tribeca Front angle view photo

Driving Impressions A few minutes behind the wheel and it becomes evident the Tribeca is not your run-of-the-mill SUV. The handling is responsive, and the steering firm and linear. Driving into sharp...

curves yields some mild body lean, but overall it's evident that the low center of gravity of its unique drivetrain enhances stability and confidence. The all-wheel-drive system splits power in a 45/55 proportion that favors the rear wheels. If a tire loses grip, power is immediately transferred to the wheels with a better handle on the situation. The 3.6-liter "boxer" engine delivers good performance, while improved shift points programmed into the automatic transmission result in less gear-changing when climbing hills or moving through varying traffic.

Favorite Features

Split/reclining/folding 2nd-row seats
Beyond the expected 60/40-split tumbling feature, the second-row seatbacks fold down individually in a 40/20/40 configuration, allowing the narrow middle section to make way for skis or divide a pair of arguing kids. In addition, the seats slide fore-aft nearly eight inches, and the seatbacks recline, making this one of the most versatile seats in its class.

Dual-zone climate control and rear-cabin a/c
While abundant safety features are a given in a Subaru, the Tribeca's generous luxury exceeds any Subaru to date. Dual-zone climate control for the front cabin features air filtration, while a separate system for the back rows helps make almost any seat in the house an agreeable one.

2012 Subaru Tribeca Details

2012 Subaru Tribeca Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

Excellent fit and finish, appealing materials and an uncommon dash design are the hallmarks of the 2012 Subaru Tribeca interior. The wave-shaped dashboard visually delights, but its severe curve places some radio and heating controls at odd angles from the driver. Digital readouts for fuel economy, temperature and information are housed in a large, recessed binnacle properly set at eye level. Convenient tilt-and-slide second-row seats combine flexible comfort with easy third-row access. We applaud the ample distribution of cup holders and wide front seats, which also feature adjustable lumbar support for both driver and passenger. Useful features include an auxiliary audio input jack, as well as optional GPS navigation, rearview camera and second-row DVD entertainment system.

Exterior

The original 2006 Tribeca's face was unique, if not beautiful. A quick refresh in 2008 brought about the more palatable, if somewhat generic, front end it wears today. The 2012 Subaru Tribeca's grille features horizontal slats below the familiar Subaru star-cluster badge flanked by large headlights and front fenders that impart a strong road presence. Large side mirrors and windows, along with narrow roof pillars, help with outward vision. Around back, the Tribeca touts wraparound taillights and a sporty rear valance under its large liftgate. Standard 18-inch alloy wheels, a taut rear suspension and an impressive 8.4 inches of ground clearance lend it a confident stance that its handling backs up.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The entry Tribeca 3.6R Premium features a 3.6-liter 6-cylinder engine, 5-speed automatic with SportShift manual function, Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, 18-inch alloy wheels, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags for the first and second rows, heated power side mirrors with integrated turn signals, heated power front seats (8-way driver/4-way passenger) with lumbar adjusters, 60/40-split/reclining/sliding second-row seats, 50/50-split third-row seats, four power windows, remote keyless entry, 6-speaker stereo with MP3-compatible CD player, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear-cabin air conditioning and privacy glass. The 3.6R Limited adds leather, 10-speaker harman/kardon audio, Bluetooth and satellite radio. The top Touring trim adds xenon headlights, moonroof and a rearview camera.

Optional Equipment

In typical Subaru fashion, the entry-level trim, Tribeca 3.6R Premium, offers nearly no options, but it's well-equipped to begin with. Upgrades available on the midline 3.6R Limited include a moonroof package with a rearview camera (the latter is also available by itself), a touch-screen navigation system, and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system. With the moonroof package standard on the top-level 3.6R Touring, its only options are the navigation and rear-seat entertainment. Subaru dealers also offer a large selection of accessories, from cargo carriers to a remote-start system.

Under the Hood

Subaru offers a single drivetrain combo in the Tribeca, a 3.6-liter 6-cylinder boxer engine producing 256 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque, and symmetrical all-wheel drive. With its low profile and naturally balanced design, in which the pistons lay flat in a horizontally opposed configuration, the boxer engine and all-wheel drive provide a confident feeling of stability even when taking corners, unusual for a 7-seater SUV. Power is more than sufficient for such a heavy vehicle, while fuel economy is surprisingly good.

3.6-liter boxer-6
256 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
247 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/21

Pricing Notes

The 2012 Subaru Tribeca 3.6R Premium has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting around $31,000, with the Limited adding about $2,000 and a fully loaded Touring passing $40,000. To make your best deal, be sure to look at the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price, which shows what others in your area have paid for their vehicles. Now in its seventh year of production, the Tribeca continues to hold strong resale value, just below the Honda Pilot and GMC Acadia, but on par with the Ford Flex, Hyundai Veracruz and Toyota 4Runner.

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2012 Subaru Tribeca Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

8.8

Out of 10

Based on 179 Ratings for the 2006 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

8.8/10

Quality

9.1/10
Reliability

9.2/10

Performance

8.8/10
Comfort

9.0/10

Styling

9.0/10

Good value

By sinderz (WI) on Friday, April 05, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 67,000

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 7/10
Styling: 7/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "reliable"

Cons: "expensive, needs some tweaking"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 7

"This car has been reliable - especially in our Wisconsin winters. The 3rd row seating is great for kids, but not comfortable for adults. Has held up well with the wear and tear that kids put on vehicles. The only gripe I have is that the bushings needed replacement at 40,000 miles. perhaps the never-end road construction caused it, however I never had to replace bushings on a car that "young" before. the other gripe is the heat shield keeps coming loose and causing a rattling sound. Dealership tightened it up, but another tightening will cause the screws to strip and will require a replacement at almost $400! Subaru, fix this and the bunk bushings and you have a really decent vehicle."

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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Feel so secure

By Bee (PA) on Tuesday, September 25, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 48,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 8/10
Comfort: 9/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This is my 6th Subaru and first Tiibeca. We chose this instead of the outback for the passenger seating, comfort and of course all wheel drive. It is a powerful, reliable vehicle and drives great in all kinds of weather. The only negative I would say is the gas mileage is not as good as the Outback but that is due to the powerful and very responsive engine. Would definitely buy another one."

9 people out of 9 found this review helpful

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My 5th Subaru - wish I loved it more!

By RosieRu (SD) on Friday, August 17, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 62,000

10 7.0

overall rating 7 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 7/10
Value: 6/10
Reliability: 7/10
Quality: 7/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 6/10
Comfort: 7/10

Pros: "Comfortable front seat, looks"

Cons: "Low mpg, small 3rd row, AWD not as good as Outback"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 7

"Bought this vehicle new in 2009. This is the 5th Subaru I've owned (and the 7th I've driven) and I truly wanted to love it more, but there's a few things I don't like. I drive around 40 miles per day on average (20 miles gravel/dirt road, 20 miles pavement). Haven't had any major mechanical or electrical issues to date. One little thing with the auxillary jack but that was fixed under warrantee. - One of the biggest issues with how well your AWD works is what type if tires you have on the vehicle. Even with new all-season and/or winter tires on this Tribeca the AWD did not handle as well in the ice and snow as my previous Outback and Outback sedans did. Even with extra weight in the back cargo area, not much of a change. As AWD is a main feature of Subaru vehicles, I was disappointed with the performance. - Gas mileage is kind of sad for something of this size. You can get used to the 18 mpg but the size of the gas tank (only 16.4 gallons) tends to be the killer. It would be nice to have a bigger tank so you don't have to fill up as often out of paranoia alone. And/or better mpg. - Leg room in the 3rd row of seats is almost non-existent. I'm a 5'4" small adult and could not sit back there comfortably. Truly meant for kids only. - LOVE the A/C in the back rows coming from the top with the heat still coming from the floor for the back rows. Very smart on Subaru's part not to have hot air blasting on your face like other SUV's. - Seats are comfortable. Back row seats are a little stiff but still comfortable. Leather quality is outstanding. Doesn't wear or get shiny quickly like some Chevy/GMC/Ford vehicles. - Not much storage in this vehicle at all. Small consoles and jockey box areas (due to V6 engine for the jockey I'm sure). - Overall, I'm very confident driving this vehicle in dry or wet conditions. Don't trust it as much in the snow/ice and definitely not in the mud. The VDC is worthless in country mud. More of an annoyance really. I wouldn't buy another one of these again. I still love Subaru and wouldn't hesitate to purchase an Outback or even an Impreza. I just wish they would come out with a better 7-seater alternative."

9 people out of 9 found this review helpful

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Drives great, interior quality low

By tierramadre (CA) on Saturday, August 11, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 40,000

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 6/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 8/10
Comfort: 7/10

Pros: "great value for price, drives great"

Cons: "plastics appointments break easily"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I have had my Tribeca for 4 years and I love getting into it everyday, but... there are little things that have bugged me. The windshield cracked one day for no reason just after it passed the 3 year warranty mark. The seats are hard to clean (DO NOT GET THE TAN COLOR if you have kids!) and the leather is much cheaper than the XC90 and the Highlander we have had in the past. Also, some interior appointments (with plastic) broke easily. Overall, I enjoy the interior cabin and I like the nighttime light display. I like the exterior look much better than all other 7 seater cars in this price range. Even with all the little things that bug me, I am considering getting another one. It drives way better that the XC90 in my experience (more aerodynamic and responsive on the road)."

7 people out of 7 found this review helpful

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Just what we were looking for

By Darksun (MT) on Thursday, March 22, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 65,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "AWD, Saftey, nice look, seems roomy"

Cons: "Small gas tank, stiff suspension"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"We finally outgrew our Plymonth Neon and decided on a mid size SUV for us and our 2 small kids. Living in Montana meant safety and road handling were important. We like the look and feel of the Tribeca and have been waiting for the right deal to come along. So far very happy with it. PS: On our first road trip we hit an unexpected blizzard on the way home and the vehicle did just as hoped."

5 people out of 5 found this review helpful

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Serves it purpose

By BlueWizard (CO) on Wednesday, February 08, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 130,000

10 7.0

overall rating 7 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 7/10
Value: 7/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 7/10
Styling: 8/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Interior design"

Cons: "A little underpowered"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I purchased the Tribeca for two reasons: 1) Lots of cargo space (with the back seat folded down) and 2) the AWD. Living in Colorado, the AWD is great in the snow. The car is on the heavy side, which can also be an advantage in the snow. The downside to the weight is that the 6-cylinder engine is a little underpowered in relationship. The interior design is one of the Tribeca's outstanding features. The dual climate control and cd/stereo system are my favorites."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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See all 179 reviews