Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
The Tribeca represents the pinnacle of Subaru ownership so it is fitting that it is a technology leader, invariably acting as the first vehicle in the model line-up to introduce innovations from the company’s engineers.  Its seven-seat layout required specific solutions so that even those in the third row enjoy a similar level of safety to those further forward and this has been achieved by designing a bodyshell which is exceptional strong and stiff irrespective of the load exerted on it.
The Tribeca’s safety arsenal therefore includes a roll-over sensor which detects vertical movement – this in addition to the conventional sensor to measure horizontal movement. When these two sensors both exceed preset values the curtain airbags deploy. This detection of an impending rollover will simultaneously cause the front seatbelt pre-tensioners to activate.
The Tribeca’s sophisticated Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system includes an electronically-controlled centre differential configured to distribute torque front/rear in a ratio of 45.7/54.3 but the split is automatically varied depending on driving conditions. The stability this imparts is enhanced further by Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), an advanced stability control system which continuously monitors the vehicle’s cornering attitude and intervenes when necessary by reducing engine power, altering the front/rear torque split, or applying any of the four brakes selectively.

Boxer Engine
The Tribeca is powered by the acclaimed H6 Boxer engine, which measures 3.6-litres and produces 190 kW and 350 Nm. This quad-cam multivalve unit is state-of-the-art in every way, and was designed with three objectives in mind compared to its 3.0-litre predecessor: improved refinement, lower fuel consumption and fewer emissions. Subaru’s engineers succeeded on all counts and actually made the engine lighter at the same time.
The engine is fitted with both Active Valve Control System (AVCS) - which allows the valve behaviour to be finely controlled within a wide range of crankshaft rotation, and Variable Valve Lift (VVL) – which allows for two distinct phases of valve lift. These features have the effect of moving the  torque peak downwards, and making it much flatter so that the engine spends more time in the ideal rev range. For example, at 2 000 rpm there is already 300 Nm available – more than the peak output before.
Myriad internal changes improve efficiency and enhanced engine cooling not only reduces emissions but also allows the 3.6-litre H6 to run on 93 octane unleaded fuel if necessary. 

Transmission
Effortless two-pedal motoring can only come about by seamless interaction between engine and gearbox and  the E-5AT five-speed automatic transmission boasts three shifts modes for different conditions. This means the driver can select a sporty or manual driving style, or simply leave the ‘box in a default setting.  ‘Sport’ will even drop down another gear or two if aggressive braking is detected, automatically blipping the throttle to ensure the perfect shift. Depending on the level of lateral force detected, the same gear position will be maintained until the corner is exited. It’ll also allow the engine to rev higher before shifting - especially useful when towing.
Advanced electronics harness the generous  engine torque, resulting in fewer changes - this is also key to the exceptional consumption and emission figures. And if a downchange is required, it is barely perceptible.
Manual shifting is ideal for off-road work, and with its 215 mm of ground clearance the Tribeca is more than capable of roughing it - self-levelling rear suspension maintains the static ride height and ground clearance irrespective of how heavily laden the vehicle is.