Originally Posted by Mike Meredith @ msn autos

Subaru has established a reputation for building safe, practical vehicles that offer the additional confidence and capability of standard all-wheel drive. Last year with the redesigned Legacy and Outback, the Japan-based automaker took a decidedly upmarket step in terms of performance and refinement for these two mainstays of the Subaru model lineup.
The addition of the performance-oriented WRX and flagship WRX STi, which boasts performance on par with some of the best sports cars, has also expanded and established Subaru's presence in that market. . . .The Subaru B9 Tribeca is a serious challenger in the midsize crossover SUV category. While the front-end styling may take some getting used to, the interior is both beautifully designed and useful from the moment a driver's gets in for the first time.

Arriving when drivers seem to be tiring of large, truck-like SUVs, the B9 Tribeca offers an enjoyable driving experience while still offering five-plus-two seating: very comfortable seating for four adults and the ability to accommodate up to seven occupants in total.

Subaru made the first move up-market with the redesigned Legacy and Outback last year, and the B9 Tribeca continues the trend while at the same time offering significantly more passenger room and cargo capacity.

The B9 Tribeca is fun to drive, which doesn't hold true for many other 7-passenger choices in the market—so it might surprise a few people.