Good car companies know when it's time to change.

Take Subaru, for instance.

A couple of years ago, they introduced the B-9 Tribeca, a crossover chock full of interesting features, including an arresting interior highlighted by one of the most unusual dashboards in the business.

But then there was that grille -- a strange looking appendage that put off car writers and potential customers alike. Also, a model that I drove seemed underpowered and the engine performance seemed a little unrefined compared with other products in the Tribeca's price range.

Much to its credit, Subaru went to work, and the result is the 2008 Tribeca -- all traces of awkwardness thankfully excised.

The odd "B-9" moniker was ditched. The awful grille mercifully sent to pasture. A new, larger displacement engine was installed, too.

Most shocking -- in a positive way -- is just how sporty the new Tribeca is on the road. You can drive aggressively in this car, and it still minds its manners. I would certainly rank it at the top with Acura's MDX for sporty feel and quality.

The new engine, a 3.6-liter "boxer" six cylinder, puts out 256 horsepower, a big increase from the former 245. Subaru also gave the engine more torque punch at the low end range where you really feel it when you are launching from a standing start.

Other improvements made to the engine increased cooling efficiency and made it possible to run on regular, instead of premium gasoline. And it gets better fuel mileage, too.

Visibility has improved with larger rear windows and larger side view mirrors. Outside, the car looks more aggressive and sporty with bigger wheel flares and a grille that features a new chrome spread-wing design that looks more conventional.

Inside, I was particularly struck by a new one-step "tilt and slide" system used by Subaru to get to the third-row seat. You engage one lever, the second seat folds forward, and in you go.

Altogether, Subaru has managed to make the Tribeca more conventional where it needs to be, while increasing its sportiness potential and appearance.

I can't wait to test drive one for a week.