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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  A Shoebox on a Toyota Camry - 2008 Scion XB
  By SHOOBOX - December 31 - 12:10 pm

  With the 2.4L engine from the Toyota Camry makes the xB 2.0 a sporty little box that actually turns heads in a positive way. While I wish the automatic had the 5 speed transmission of the Camry, it shifts without a sudden jerk and scream of the revs from the down shift. I love the lounger configuration that allows you, as a passenger, to sit with your feet up from the back seat. Handles like a sports car. I couldnt imagine how it would handle with all of the TRD options: supercharger, racing springs, sway bars, etc. Interior has enough room for my son to sit comfortably behind me (63" driver, 64" in the back seat. Wish it came with roof rack option. Load cap. 850 lbs., thats four adult males.

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  My Scion XBox - 2006 Scion XB
  By Ness - December 30 - 10:40 am

  The Scion xB has incredible interior design and is super easy to park anywhere because of its small size. I have had it since October and it has not gotten any dents from people slamming their doors into the car. The only bad thing about the it is that it is so close to the ground it leaves you very little clearance and most of the front part and the rear bumper are made of plastic. Overall though, I am VERY happy with the xB, it was my first new car purchase and it has been an excellent buy.

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  Great except for the windshields - 2006 Scion XB
  By DUCricket - December 28 - 7:00 pm

  Ive had this car for almost two years. I loved the unique design and interior room. The interior design looks a little cheap, but better than the TC. I still love the vehicle, except for the fact that I am going onto my third windshield in two years. I just replaced the windshield three months ago and the new windshield is cracked already. Theres a whole section on this site about the windshields always cracking. Great car except for the windshields. Be prepared to pay money for replacements.

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  WHAT A GREAT CAR - 2005 Scion XB
  By C5 corvette also - December 28 - 1:30 pm

  I AM AN AUTO BUFF WHO HAD TO HAVE THIS MOST UNUSUAL AUTO. MINE IS A 2005 XB WITH AN EXCELLENT BLACK CHERRY FINISH. IT IS AUTOMATIC WITH THE STOCK POWER OPTIONS.THE BLACK INTERIOR IS A BEAUTIFUL CLOTH (WHICH IS BETTER IN FLORIDA).THE ENTIRE CAR IS PUT TOGETHER VERY WELL WITH EXCELLENTCRAFTMANSHIP.IT HAS A GREAT SOUND SYSTEM AND MORE THAN AMPLE POWER TO PASS ON THE FREEWAY.ITS LIKE A LITTLE HOT ROD. THIS IS QUITE POSSIBLY THE BEST OVERALL VEHICLE IVE EVER OWNED.

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  Whats Up With the Windshield? - 2006 Scion XB
  By wilsonevans - December 28 - 9:36 am

  I test drove this car and fell in love. It has so much room. As i was making a trip I heard a loud pop and there was a crack in my windshield there is no one around me to throw up a rock or anything. I took the car to my dealer after six days of ownership. They said it was a rock crack and I would be responsible for replacing it. I looked online and there are tons of people who are having mysterious cracks appear in their windshields. I cant afford to be payin for a new windshield every six days. Scion is gonna have to step up and fix this problem.

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  family car in disguise - 2008 Scion XB
  By Doug - December 28 - 9:10 am

  Ive had my xB for four months and love it. You get so much car and so much safety for just $16,200. Yes, its heavier and less fuel efficient than the old xB, but I can drive my wife and three kids in this xB with both peace of mind and some zip. I think Scion has somewhat mis-marketed the vehicle. Its a great family car, notwithstanding its looks. The side airbags, VSC and traction control, four-wheel disc brakes, 2.4L engine, and that extra weight make it a smart adult car. I drove the Honda Fit and the xD before the xB and noticed the huge difference in weight,power, and ride immediately. The xB is an incredibly safe, roomy, and practical car, one more families should consider.

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  Great Car - 2004 Scion XB
  By Barbie_n_ken - December 24 - 10:00 am

  After looking at the Toyota corolla, matrix, and rav 4, I decided to buy the Xb because of its impressive list of standard features, its roominess, great gas mileage, and its safety features. I could not find any other car in the Xbs price range that had standard anti-lock brakes and traction control. The Xb is lots of fun to drive and gets lots of attention everywhere I go. My 2 year old son loves the room in the back seat and I feel safe in this car.

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  Just wonderful - 2005 Scion XB
  By elgin_browntown - December 24 - 8:10 am

  This is my first new car purchase, and I couldnt be happier. Great interior room, nice gas mileage, and great customer service. When I first saw it, I couldnt decide if it was ugly or cool. It was unlike anything Ive seen, but I have grown to love the way it looks. The price, interior design, and the practicality of the whole enchilada made the Scion an easy choice.

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  SMALL OUTSIDE, BIG INSIDE - 2005 Scion XB
  By ANTONIO GUERRA - December 16 - 9:56 am

  Looking for an appropriate vehicle in which to drive clients around, I stumbled upon the Scion. Intending to buy a Lincoln or other luxury sedan for space and comfort, I inexplicably fell in love with this weird-looking vehicle with its unique dashboard. At first I kicked myself for what seemed to have been an impulse purchase...a nostalgic regression to my youth- addled tastes in the 60s, when I drove a "psychedelic" VW microbus. But The Scion xB turned out to be an excellent choice. My clients love it, and its an instant conversation piece that quickly breaks the ice. Even my tallest passengers are comfortable with its ample leg and head room, front and back. And what fun to drive!

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  My Foxsy Boxsy Scion - 2005 Scion XB
  By Judy - December 13 - 7:13 pm

  I love this car. I am 50 yrs old. Previously I was driving a 1996 RAV4 2dr w/dual sunroofs. I didnt think Id ever find another vehicle that I loved as much. The Toyota came out with the Box! I love this car for a fun, funky, roomy, ride. Plenty of legroom for the big guys in my life 240 lb.......63" The senior citizens are paying alot of attention to the car & liking it as well.