The New Subaru Tribeca 2010

Engineers at Subaru Motors have stamped their confidence upon their engine design for all their models. It's called the "Boxer Engine" and indeed is unique in its design concept. All of the 2010 Subaru Tribeca SUV models come with the 3.6 liter, 6 cylinder boxer engine as their base engine, with no additional options at this time.

KEEPING IT SIMPLE

The design concept of keeping the cylinders in a horizontally opposed position rather than in an upright, in-line position creates beneficial results with a lower level of gravity for the entire engine. Upright, in-line designed engines sit higher up and thus create a higher level of gravity which encourages a bulkier, heavier engine.
By this horizontal design, the power to the Tribeca's drive-shaft system is more direct and efficient. As a result, the ride and handling is smoother and quieter than the upright cylinder driven SUV's. Reviews found in edmonds.com confirm that indeed the Tribeca has a quieter and smoother handling than most other SUV's and crossover models.

LESS IS BEST

Another distinct advantage that the Boxer Engine boasts is that there are less additional engine components required to stabilize the engine since it has its low level of gravity by design. The cylinders are all parallel to the ground and align precisely with the four wheel drive system of the Tribeca. The additional components are necessary for stabilizing an upright, in-line cylinder system.
A V-shaped engine system also calls for additional components as the engine vibration becomes an issue in that design. The Boxer, with its "flat", parallel to the road design reduces the noise and vibration level tremendously.

POWER AND RANGE

The 6 cylinder Boxer Engine produces 256 HP and will do 60 MPH in 7.8 seconds. It's respectable power for SUV's. Its 16/21 mpg can be improved.