The Subaru Tribeca is a midsize crossover SUV with available seating for seven. Its overall dimensions put it in the same class as the Toyota Highlander and Nissan Murano. It's nearly as big as a Ford Explorer, in other words. Properly equipped, the Tribeca can tow up to 3,500 pounds. In fact, the Tribeca is fully competitive in this class, especially given its lengthy list of standard features.

Starting with all-wheel drive, the Tribeca is loaded with technology, giving drivers the latest in all-weather safety and performance. The Tribeca earned the highest possible rating in NHTSA federal crash tests, with five stars in the frontal and side-impact tests for both the driver and front-seat passenger; and a four-star rating in the tests for rollover resistance. The Tribeca has also been named a Top Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The Tribeca first appeared in 2006, powered by a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine. It was an attractive vehicle with the exception of its grille design, which was certainly distinctive but controversial at the time and hasn't grown on us as we hoped it might. The 2008 model year brought revised styling that gave it a more conventional look. We find the revised looks pleasing if not distinctive. The 2008 lineup also brought a larger, more powerful 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine and other mechanical refinements.

For 2009, Subaru has expanded the model lineup, inserting a new mid-range SE trim level between the base model and the upscale Limited.

We find the Tribeca a joy to drive, with a roomy, comfortable cabin that has an upscale feel. It's a practical vehicle with lots of nice features. The bigger engine has given the Tribeca the power it needed. Subaru is a leader in all-wheel-drive technology so the Tribeca boasts one of the best such systems in this class, making it a superb choice for foul weather. In short, we list the Tribeca as a buy. It's comparable to the Highlander and Murano, and that's high praise indeed. And we no longer have to offer excuses for the styling.