Subaru Tribeca

Model years 2008 and newer Tribeca (B9 was dropped from the name) have revised styling, with a less controversial-looking front grille, as well as a revised transmission and a more powerful 256-hp, 3.6-liter engine that runs on regular fuel. It gets the same 16 mpg as the less-powerful engine; this is the version you want. The cabin is nicely finished, but the third-row is tiny, even for children. A hidden release lets the second-row seats slide back, giving them needed legroom when the third row is unoccupied. Most controls are easy to use, but buttons can be hard to read and it is a long reach to the navigation system's touch-screen monitor. Look for one with the optional backup camera; the small back window impairs rear visibility.