2012 Subaru Tribeca: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Subaru Tribeca is a true carryover with no major changes from 2011. It keeps the same three trims, six-cylinder engine, standard AWD, and seven-passenger layout.
About the 2012 Subaru Tribeca
1st generation Tribeca (2006-2014), in the post-2008 redesign/facelift phase.
The 2012 Tribeca is Subaru’s midsize three-row family crossover for shoppers who want standard AWD rather than a front-wheel-drive-based family SUV. Its core identity is all-weather family use: seven-passenger seating, split-folding rear rows, and a strong six-cylinder engine in a package that feels lower and more car-like than many bigger three-row rivals. The Tribeca’s main differentiators are standard AWD, Subaru’s flat-six powertrain, and a cabin aimed at families who need occasional third-row flexibility.
The Premium serves as the family-focused starting point, with heated power front seats, three-row seating, and rear climate controls. The Limited adds leather, Bluetooth, driver-seat memory, and Harman Kardon audio, while the Touring tops the range with a moonroof, rearview camera, and HID headlights.
2012 Subaru Tribeca specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | H6, 3.6 Liter | H6, 3.6 Liter | H6, 3.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 5-Spd w/SptShft | Auto, 5-Spd w/SptShft | Auto, 5-Spd w/SptShft |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 16 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 21 mpg | 21 mpg | 21 mpg |
| Horsepower | 256 hp | 256 hp | 256 hp |
| Torque | 247 lb-ft | 247 lb-ft | 247 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 74.4 cu-ft | 74.4 cu-ft | 74.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 30.9 in | 30.9 in | 30.9 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| HID Headlights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Subwoofer | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| 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 changed on the 2012 Subaru Tribeca compared with the 2011 model?
Nothing significant changed for 2012. The Tribeca carried over with the same Premium, Limited, and Touring trims, along with the same engine, transmission, standard AWD, and seven-passenger layout.
Did the 2012 Subaru Tribeca get a new engine or transmission?
No, the 2012 Tribeca kept its 256-hp 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine and 5-speed automatic transmission. Full-time AWD remained standard across all three trims.
What trims does the 2012 Subaru Tribeca have?
The 2012 Tribeca lineup consists of 3.6R Premium, 3.6R Limited, and 3.6R Touring trims. Premium covers the family-use basics, Limited adds comfort and audio upgrades, and Touring adds features such as a moonroof and rearview camera.
Does the 2012 Subaru Tribeca have seven-passenger seating?
Yes, every 2012 Tribeca has three-row seating for up to seven people. Its second row slides and splits 40/20/40, while the third row folds in a 50/50 split.
Which 2012 Subaru Tribeca trim has a rearview camera and moonroof?
The 3.6R Touring has both a rearview camera and a power moonroof. It also adds HID headlights and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with a compass.