2008 Subaru Tribeca Preview – New York Auto Show: A good personality. Outstanding inner qualities. Born to a good family. A trusted companion in difficult times. Accommodating. They’re all terms that could be appropriately used to describe the Subaru B9 Tribeca. Note that attractive is not on the list. As we’ve all learned, looks aren’t everything, but they’re definitely something, and in the world of cars, they’re something big. Recognizing that not enough shoppers were embracing its crossover’s funky face, Subaru designers put pen to paper for 2008 and finished the day with a new Tribeca (sans the B9), one that replaced individuality with mainstream style. With any luck, this once homely wallflower will be contending for the center of attention.

With so many good cars on the market today, buyers have the luxury of not having to settle for anything less than what they truly want. That’s great for automakers who sell cars that please on every front, especially if those vehicles happen to be among the growing ranks of crossovers. Subaru thought the B9 Tribeca was a winner, but buyers responded to the Subie’s looks by buying its competitors. The significant refresh, consisting of a power upgrade but more importantly a reskinning of the front end, should help the 2008 Tribeca appeal to more buyers, and in doing so, provide a boost to Subaru’s already healthy growth.

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