Subaru Tribeca

Performance

Just one 3-litre engine with 242bhp through an auto box. Decent performance but the gearbox isn't the best.

Driving

Permanent 4WD gives good grip, and a generally comfortable ride is OK for the segment.

Feel

Nice raspy noise to engines, but transmission doesn't help.

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Price

Very high running costs and a pretty steep list price. Residuals will probably be OK, though it's too early to tell.

Quality

Should be tough and reliable inside and out, though the interior trim is disappointing.

Safety

Front, side and curtain airbags are standard, as are stability control and ISOFIX points. Deadlocks and immobiliser standard.

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Space

Available as a 5 or 7-seater with seats folding, sliding and loop-the-looping. Versatile, but space on the back row is tight.

Equipment

Dual-zone aircon, powered seats, six-CD autochanger are standard. Leather, heated seats and satnav at SE5 spec. DVD system and satnav in SE7.

Alternatives

Volvo XC90, Volkswagen Touareg, Land Rover Discovery

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Pros

Looks pretty cool. Good engine.

Cons

Expensive to buy and run. Not a genuine offroader.

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