Overview & Reviews

Attracting the coveted 18-to-34-year-old age group is job one for Scion, the youth-oriented division of Toyota, and its xB wagon is the fashion centerpiece of the brand. Although the Scion xB has the body of a miniature delivery truck, even in its second generation this box still casts a distinctive silhouette.

We liked the first-generation xB for its distinctiveness; after all, it was little more than a rebadged version of a Japanese-market Toyota. Scion had the American market specifically in mind when it made the second-generation model bigger and more powerful, though some of the original's character was lost in the process. But overall, a new or used xB is a fine pick for a small and stylish wagon.

Current Scion xB
The Scion xB is offered in two trim levels: base and limited-production Release Series 10.0 (or RS 10.0). Standard features include air-conditioning, cruise control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and a six-speaker Pioneer sound system (with a CD player, HD radio, an iPod/USB audio interface and an RCA output). The RS 10.0 adds unique exterior and interior trim, a rearview camera and wireless charging of applicable smartphones. Options are limited to transmission choice and dealer-installed items such as upgraded audio systems, a navigation system and different wheel designs.

Every xB sports a 2.4-liter inline-4 that produces 158 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a four-speed automatic is optional. Fuel economy is disappointing, however, as it is similar to that of many compact SUVs.

Inside, the xB's boxy lines translate to a surprisingly roomy interior that allows you to transport three to four friends with no complaints from the backseat. It's so roomy that some cities even employ xBs as taxi cabs. When the time comes to haul stuff rather than people, the 60/40-split rear seats fold flat, revealing an impressive 70 cubic feet of space. That's actually bigger than many compact SUVs.

In road tests of the current xB, we found it feels fairly stable at highway speeds, although its slab-sided styling makes it vulnerable to crosswinds. The xB is responsive and confident at lower speeds, though over rough surfaces the ride can get a bit bumpy. We've never liked the centrally mounted primary gauges, but the climate controls couldn't be any easier to use and the standard touchscreen interface is fairly user-friendly – especially if you belong to Scion's younger, target demographic.

Used Scion xB Models
The present Scion xB was introduced for 2008, featuring larger dimensions and more power than the first generation. In its first two years, the steering wheel featured only a tilt adjustment, meaning taller drivers had an uncomfortable reach when driving. The later addition of a telescoping adjustment helped somewhat. Besides minor styling tweaks for 2013, the main difference points were the frequent changes, updates and additions to radio faceplates. The ones produced for 2010-'13 could be fairly complicated, but provided iPod control at a time when many other cars in its price range did not. Throughout the years there were also so-called "Release Series" models that featured special paint and interior trim.

The first-generation Scion xB was sold from 2004-'07. Initially it was sold only in California, and Scion gradually rolled it out to other big markets like Florida, New York and Texas. Nationwide sales began for the 2005 model year.

Standard equipment was better than average for a low-priced economy car, as every xB came with antilock brakes, stability and traction control, air-conditioning, an MP3-compatible CD player and power windows, mirrors and locks. Fifteen-inch steel wheels with your choice of plastic wheel covers were also standard, but you could get alloy wheels as a low-cost accessory. Side and head curtain airbags were optional.

The power source in every first-generation Scion xB was a 1.5-liter, inline-4-cylinder engine. In 2004 and '05, it was rated for 108 hp and 105 lb-ft of torque. For the 2006 model year, new SAE certification procedures dropped the ratings to 103 hp and 101 lb-ft, although actual performance was unchanged. We recommend sticking with the five-speed manual transmission if you can, as it gives this xB respectable point-and-shoot capability in freeway traffic. With the four-speed automatic, acceleration can be sluggish.

For the 2006 model year, the xB's stereo head unit was redesigned to incorporate an MP3 player jack. Additionally, dedicated iPod owners had the option of purchasing a specialized unit that allowed for player control and recharging through the xB's stereo controls. Other accessories included a subwoofer, satellite radio, sport pedals and shift knob, and for the truly bored, backlit footwells and cupholders (in a variety of colors). A limited-edition Release Series 3.0 package for 2006 even provided a rear entertainment system with dual 7-inch LCD screens mounted in the front headrests.

User Reviews:

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  Maxxb - 2005 Scion XB
  By akchas - September 23 - 10:00 am

  I have a XB Release 1 series, the color being Hot Lava. I bought it the day the dealer received it, right off the delivery truck. I love this car - and have named it after my recently deceased Shar Pei MAXXIE. I;ve added cold air induction, 18" wheels, tinted front windows/windshield, Toyota Racing exhaust system, and after market leather interior and power sunroof, and recently introduced custom taillights. I treat this car as part of my being and body. Its a real attention getter.

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  The Bomb - 2005 Scion XB
  By TK69 - September 23 - 10:00 am

  I originally bought this car for my 15 year old son. I figured I would drive it for the next year until he turns 16. I felt it was a good car to learn to drive. After driving it for the last 3 months, he is on his own. There is no way I am parting with my X/B. Sorry, I love this car.

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  fun car to drive - 2005 Scion XB
  By ellianette - September 23 - 10:00 am

  this car is the best car that toyota has made so far in the U.S i love the way that it feels when you are driving down the road. the seat are very comfortable i love love the black interio the shape of the car that looks like a little box and just everything about this car. WAY THO GO TOYOTA U ROCK

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  Love My Box - 2005 Scion XB
  By Boxxy Lady - September 23 - 10:00 am

  Having a small family, this car works out perfectly for us. My husband is 61 and hes even comfortable in it. All the kids in our family love it, the adults arent so sure, but theyre not driving it. We love it!

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  I love my Scion - 2005 Scion XB
  By Doct T - September 23 - 10:00 am

  Owning a Scion is like being in a car commercial! People stop me all of the time to ask about the car and I am always happy to tell them that it is a fantastic ride. The car is great on mileage, is the most comfortable car I have ever driven, and roomy to boot! Of course, the price was perfect as well. I really feel that I got the best car for my money, espeically afterspending a few months searching on the Net and at the dealers. Finally, it may not look like it, but it is a Toyota, through and through. I feel very safe and that it is relaible.

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  great car - 2005 Scion XB
  By scioner - September 23 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car. it gets you where you want to go fast and fun. great interior space and design. stylish looks that get you noticed. a blast to drive and great to customize with thousands of performance and visual upgrades ex. lights, exhaust, body kits, fenders, spoilers, suspension, rims, and grills are only a few. a great car to have.

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  What A Fun Car To Own - 2005 Scion XB
  By Linda Ruth - September 23 - 10:00 am

  I have owned my XB for 2 weeks and it is absolutely a fun car to drive and own.Im 62 years old and this has been a great experience. This car is geared toward the younger generation, but Im here to tell you this car makes you feel young. Every day that I drive it some one always asks what is it? Who makes it? I love this car.

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  Hot Lava is Hot - 2005 Scion XB
  By Jim Seattle - September 23 - 10:00 am

  great car fior the money...turns heads everywhere

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  Xb is the BEST - 2005 Scion XB
  By Tony10 - September 23 - 10:00 am

  The best feature was no hassle buying. One price for everyone. Toyota makes the best cars and trucks. Get your NOW

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  Love the Scion - 2005 Scion XB
  By rwindmc - September 23 - 10:00 am

  Waited 6 months before it was offered on the east coast. I have had mine for over 5 months now and I have not gotten tired of the question "What kind of car is that? Who is it made by? I make everyone sit in my Scion XB. They love all the room. Like sitting in your living room.