Local prices, engine specs, performance, fuel economy data, reliability and safety listings for every car
sold in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman and Kuwait!
The original B9 Tribeca, Subaru’s attempt at a midsize 4WD,
has received a facelift for 2008, getting a dull new look instead of the ugly
old face. Built on the same all-wheel-drive platform as the Outback, the Tribeca is longer, wider and much inches taller than the Outback, and offers five or seven-passenger seating. The
overall styling has been toned down after the previous design was deemed too controversial. The interior attempts to be more modern and upscale than competitive makes,
with an amazingly unique design. The oddly-named B9 Tribeca has now dropped "B9"
from its name, but is still powered by Subaru's horizontally-opposed flat six-cylinder "boxer" engine, a rare type of engine design shared only with Porsche. Also standard is a five-speed automatic gearbox. The B9 Tribeca offers power windows, electric mirrors, standard
roll sensing system, ABS brakes with Brake Assist, CD stereo, and standard two-position memory system for front driver’s seat and more. Options include reverse-assist sensors, remote starter, and rear cargo cover with shade-type functionality. Safety features include dual front and side airbags.
Dull new
face, above-average price, off-road ability
Subaru Forester
The Forester was Subaru's first attempt at a proper small 4WD, already being the first company to offer all-wheel drive across its entire model line. The Forester was introduced for the 1998 model year and has only survived on facelifts, being heavily revamped for 2003. Built on the Impreza platform, the Forester features Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. In the Middle East, only the 2.5X model is offered, powered by a 2.5-litre flat four-cylinder, mated to a four-speed automatic. The Forester includes a MP3/WMA CD stereo, 6-CD changer, automatic climate control system, power windows, electric mirrors, ABS brakes, dual front airbags, fog lamps, cruise control, cloth upholstery and an automatic air conditioner. The higher models include a sunroof, 16-inch alloy wheels, leather-wrapped surfaces such as the steering wheel, gear shift knob and handbrake. The Forester is different than most compact 4WDs since, in addition to being a soft-roader with no low-range gearing, it also has a lower car-like body.
Not very fast, conservative shape, off-road ability
Subaru Impreza
The Impreza has now become a hatchback for 2008, with interior and exterior styling
solidly in the mainstream of conservative design. It remains the only car in its
class with standard full-time all-wheel drive. Subaru likes to tout their rally
heritage, but none of the Middle East models are anywhere near rally cars. The models offered here are the
new 1.5-litre, known as the 1.5i, and the 2.0-litre, known as the 2.0R. Both have flat four-cylinder "boxer" engines, and both mated to either a five-speed manual or an
outdated four-speed automatic. Base models have a standard AM/FM stereo system, cloth upholstery, power windows, electric mirrors, central locking and steel wheels, along with dual front airbags. The full-spec 2.0R model features the same full power options, alloy wheels, rear spoiler, ABS brakes, dual front airbags, fog lamps, sunroof and not much else.
Western and Eastern world markets receive turbocharged WRX sports models, but
local dealers do not officially offer them in the GCC.
The Legacy is Subaru’s midsize model, available in all-wheel-drive form as standard. For 2005, Subaru introduced the fourth-generation Legacy with fresh styling and better handling. The same model, available in sedan and wagon body styles, has been facelifted for the 2007 model year. The 2007 Legacy is available in the Middle East with either a 2.0-litre four-cylinder, known as the 2.0R, and the 3.0-litre six-cylinder, known as the 3,0R. Both are flat "boxer" engines, mated to automatic gearboxes. Standard equipment in the base 2.0R model includes MP3/WMA CD stereo, a 6-disc CD changer, power windows, electric mirrors, central locking, ABS brakes, dual front airbags, alloy Wheels, fog lamps, climate control, cruise control and cloth upholstery. Leather and sunroof are optional. The top 3.0R trim level adds the advanced Vehicle Dynamics Control stability and traction control system, eight airbags, sunroof, leather upholstery with power-adjustable seats and more. The wagon is only available in 2.0R form.
Competitors:
Honda Accord
Nissan Altima
Toyota Camry
Price Range
Dhs 71500 - 107000 (US$ 19400 -
29100)
Body Styles
4-door sedan, 5-door wagon
Weight (kg)
1395 - 1490
Version
Performance
Engine
Gearbox
Power (hp)
Torque (Nm)
Fuel Econ (l/100km)
0-100 kph (sec)
Top Speed (kph)
2.0 F4 4WD 3.0 F6 4WD
4A 5A
165 245
187 297
9.6 11.1
11.4-11.8 8.2
193-201 237
Good
Good looks, competitive engines, solid handling
Bad
Average rear room, auto gearbox kills performance
Subaru Outback
The Outback is a crossover wagon heavily based on the Legacy, but with distinct visual and mechanical differences. Like all Subarus, the Outback features permanent all-wheel-drive. Originally introduced as a Legacy trim years ago, it is now a separate model, with higher ground clearance, fender flares and a more utilitarian demeanour. The Legacy-based Outback was completely redesigned for 2005, and only features a facelift for the 2007 model year. Engines include the 2.5-litre four-cylinder in the 2.5i trim, and the 3.0-litre six-cylinder in the 3.0R trim. Both are boxer engines mated to automatic gearboxes. All Outback models feature a MP3/WMA CD stereo, 6-disc CD changer, power windows, electric mirrors, central locking, keyless entry, ABS brakes, dual front airbags, alloy Wheels, fog lamps, climate control, cruise control and cloth upholstery. The fully-optioned trim, includes a Vehicle Dynamics Control system, eight airbags, self-levelling rear suspension, dual sunroof, and a leather interior with power seats.
