There's an early arrival for 2008 at your Subaru dealers -- the all-new Tribeca.

You might recall that the earlier Tribeca was known as the B9 Tribeca and its looks were, well, odd.

That's all been changed as Subaru has smoothed out the styling, designed a new front end and gotten rid of the "B-9" designation.

But the most welcome change is just how sporty the new Tribeca is on the road. If you are moving from a sports sedan to the Tribeca, I doubt if you'll miss much in terms of handling. It's just that good.

	The 2007 Subaru Legacy 2.5GT. Click image for larger version.

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 with bigger wheel flares and a grille that features a new chrome spread-wing design that looks more conventional.

Getting in and out of third row seats is no picnic, but Subaru has the perfect solution. It's a new one-step "tilt and slide" system. You engage one lever, the second seat folds forward, and in you go.

Prices and fuel economy figures were unavailable.

What's Coming in 2008

An all-new Subaru WRX has been introduced, and it's a strong departure from the rather conservative, stubby appearance that it has had in the past. A sharp looking hatchback is now available as well as a four-door sedan that is larger than the model it replaces. Power comes from a 244 horsepower 2.5 liter flat four that reportedly hits 60 mph in 5.3 seconds.