2009 Subaru Tribeca: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2009 Subaru Tribeca is mostly a carryover after the substantial 2008 update. Its main change is the trim lineup, led by the addition of a Special Edition, while the design, engine, AWD system, safety equipment, and suspension remain unchanged.
About the 2009 Subaru Tribeca
1st-generation Tribeca, second model year after the 2008 styling and powertrain update.
Subaru positioned the Tribeca as its biggest and most versatile vehicle: a family crossover that paired standard all-wheel drive with a smartly packaged cabin. The pitch centered on flexible seating, useful cargo space, strong safety, and a smoother, more car-like feel than a truck-based SUV. For Subaru shoppers who needed more room, it was the brand's three-row-capable answer without giving up Subaru's all-weather confidence.
The 2009 Tribeca is a three-row family crossover offered in practical and more upscale forms. The Base has a 256-hp 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine, full-time AWD, a 7-inch display, and a flexible sliding second row, while the Limited adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, a moonroof, and premium audio.
What changed, by category
2009 Subaru Tribeca specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | H6, 3.6 Liter | H6, 3.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive & SportShift | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive & SportShift |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 21 mpg | 21 mpg |
| Horsepower | 256 hp | 256 hp |
| Torque | 247 lb-ft | 247 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 74.4 cu-ft | 74.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.3 in | 34.3 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| Subwoofer | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Third Row Seat | ||
| Tilt Wheel | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the main change to the 2009 Subaru Tribeca?
The main change is the addition of a Special Edition between the Base and Limited trims. Otherwise, the 2009 Tribeca carries over the major updates introduced for 2008.
Did the 2009 Subaru Tribeca get a new engine?
No. The 2009 Tribeca keeps the 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine, five-speed automatic transmission, and full-time AWD system used in 2008.
Was the 2009 Subaru Tribeca redesigned?
No. The 2009 Tribeca retains the front and rear styling introduced for 2008, along with the same body structure, suspension, and interior packaging.
Is the 2009 Subaru Tribeca different from the 2008 model?
Only slightly. The 2009 model's notable difference is its revised trim lineup, including the Special Edition; its styling, powertrain, safety hardware, and underlying structure are unchanged.
What distinguishes the 2009 Tribeca Limited?
The Limited is the more upscale 2009 Tribeca. It has leather-trimmed upholstery, heated front seats, a power moonroof, roof rails, driver-seat memory, and a nine-speaker audio system.