COBB's tuning program for the B9 Tribeca focused on the areas lacking compared to other vehicles in its class. Individually, the primary areas identified were Power, Control and Styling. The goal was to improve the vehicle in these areas without distracting from its original character or diminishing areas where it is already superior.
POWER
To improve power, COBB set out to develop a highly efficient and quiet supercharger system. Utilizing a Rotrex compressor, COBB's engineering team set out to develop a system that would improve the vehicle's engine performance throughout its entire power band without negatively effecting engine reliability, NHV, or drive ability. To do so, a sophisticated mounting system was designed that allows retention of all the factory pulleys and reduces any harmonics that might create vibrations under certain operating conditions. To allow for sustained periods of boost, as experienced when towing or climbing mountain grades, an air-to-air intercooler was incorporated in a side-mounted position to further cool the incoming charge air. For the effort, COBB has been able to extract 320 HP and 270 lb-ft of torque from the Subaru 3.0L flat-6 engine.
Tieing the system together, custom ECU programming was developed that can easily be installed using COBB's AccessPORT hand held programmer. The AccessPORT stores multiple ECU programs which provides the installer or end-user the ability to calibrate their engine computer for different fuel octanes or modes of operation; such as towing, high performance, fuel economy, and valet modes. OEM-like driveability is achieved through COBB's unique ability to fully control the factory engine control system.
COBB's signature cat-back exhaust system finishes out the Power upgrades and gives the driver an auditory connection with the engine. The exhaust note is deep and sporty while remaining tastefully mellow.
CONTROL
To maintain road handling due to the added power, the Supercharged B9 Tribeca is upgraded with a Sports Tuned suspension which lowers the vehicle by approximately 60mm (2.36") giving it a more aggressive, purposeful stance and reduced body roll while still maintaining excellent ground clearance. To haul down the 4000+ lb Tribeca from speed, large 4-piston aluminum calipers are installed up front over 332mm x 32mm (13" x 1.25") slotted and vented 2-piece rotors. Translating all this to the pavement, COBB selected the new Yokohama Advan S.T. performance tires to wrap the 20 x 9" Bronze Advan Connoisseur wheels.
STYLING
Carrying over the airplane theme which is said to have inspired Subaru's new look front end, COBB stylist took inspiration from older Soviet MiG fighter planes which featured an large air inlet for a front nose. Black mesh is set back in the grill to give the impression of an center inlet with wings flanking each side. Subtle modifications were also made to the headlights to give them more of a projector style and soften some of the heavy chrome used up front. Smoothing out the body lines, COBB also deleted the roof rails, which can be easily re-attached as needed. The ultimate goal to significantly improve the vehicle's styling through very subtle touches.
