Premium Performance, Regular Fuel

The Subaru 3.6-liter Boxer engine is engineered to produce powerful low-end torque, and its use of regular-grade fuel helps reduce operating costs compared to competitors that specify premium grade fuel. Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing is employed on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. The engine produces 256 horsepower and 247 lb.-ft. of peak torque.

Notably, the 3.6-liter engine sustains at least 225 lb.-ft. of torque from 2,000 to 6,000 rpm. Channeled through a specially tuned five-speed automatic transmission, that helps give the Tribeca ample acceleration and merging power makes it feel exceptionally smooth and responsive in everyday driving.

Advanced Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with VDC

With more brands adding All-Wheel Drive - especially luxury brands - it is worth noting that Subaru introduced four-wheel drive passenger cars 35 years ago and automatic full-time All-Wheel Drive over 20 years ago. Beginning in 1997, Subaru became the first brand in the U.S. to make All-Wheel Drive standard on all its models.

Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides excellent balance thanks to the longitudinally mounted Boxer engine and the way power flows from it through the transmission and to the rear differential along a straight, near-horizontal path. In the Tribeca, Subaru integrated its All-Wheel Drive technology with a stability system and 4-wheel traction control to form one of the industry's most effective dynamic handling systems.


The Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive utilizes a planetary gear-type center differential and an electronically controlled hydraulic transfer clutch to control power distribution between the front and rear wheels. Under most conditions, VTD splits the power 45:55, with the rearward bias contributing to sporty, agile handling. The VTD system continually optimizes power distribution in response to driving conditions.

Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) is a highly sophisticated stability system that actively controls the center differential's power distribution as part of its function. VDC ensures optimal torque distribution to the appropriate wheels based on input from steering wheel angle, yaw and lateral g-force sensors. The VDC system also monitors input from the ABS brakes, adjusting individual wheel braking as needed, helping to maintain vehicle control under a variety of driving conditions. Integrated with VDC, the 4-wheel electronic traction control system (TCS) provides an extra layer of handling control without impeding VTD All-Wheel Drive operation.

Standard 18 x 8-inch aluminum-alloy wheels feature an elegant dual 5-spoke design. The Tribeca is capable of towing a trailer of up to 3,500 pounds when equipped with the available accessory towing package.