We say Stylish and distinct SUV that's under radar but boasts strong kit and a good interior but challenging looks and poor drive.Performance Just one 3.0-litre engine is available with a maximum output of 242bhp. That’s enough for it to clear 60mph in 9.4 seconds and generate 219lb-ft of torque. Unfortunately it’s only available with an automatic transmission which detracts from its performance and its gearing is poor.Emissions The Tribeca returns a woeful 23mpg on a combined cycle and emits a massive 291g/km in terms of CO2 emissions, suffering for its auto box and large engine.Driving The Tribeca comes with permanent 4WD which gives excellent grip on the road. That means it’s surefooted around corners and despite its high sides, there’s not a lot of bodyroll. Unfortunately, the 4x4 tag is misplaced with the Tribeca and it’s poor off road.Feel There’s a nice raspy noise to engines, as is the case with most Subaru powertrains, but the transmission doesn't help. The Tribeca’s ride is generally good and smooth which means it’s more of a cruiser than anything else, particularly if that ‘anything else’ is off roading.Space Available as a 5 or 7-seater with seats folding, sliding and loop-the-looping. The Tribeca is versatile, in other words, but space on the back row is tight. With a 450-litre boot it’s a class leader and rear seats fold flat to free up a bit more room.Equipment Dual-zone air conditioning, powered seats, six-CD autochanger are standard. Leather, heated seats and sat-nav at SE5 spec. DVD system and satnav in SE7.Price The Tribeca’s running costs are disappointing and will rightly put most people off buying one, particularly when there’s such a wide choice of soft-off-roaders already on the market. Buyers are unlikely to be tempted by quite steep list prices as well which start at almost £29,000 and peak at almost £34,000.Quality The Tribeca looks tough and it is, both inside and out. The interior is much more upmarket than we’re used to with Subaru and there’s much more going on to. That said, it doesn’t really look right and looks awkwardly laid out with a cluttered centre console. The materials are generally nice but there is too much hard plastic for a car of its price.Safety Front, side and curtain airbags are standard, as are stability control and ISOFIX points.Pros The Tribeca is a cool and distinct-looking SUV that stands out from everything else on the market. It’s big, practical and the interior is well specced and finished.Cons The Tribeca is too expensive for what it is and running costs are too much, as well. There are much better alternatives on the market and they’re likely to be more capable off road as well.Alternatives Volvo XC90, Volkswagen Touareg, Land Rover Discovery
