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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  Kids love to play with a box, so do I! - 2004 Scion XB
  By Lil xB Box - March 7 - 10:00 am

  This head turning box is so fun & easy to drive. My husband, 62, wasnt sure what to think when I took him to the dealership to test drive my xB. He wasnt sure if I had just lost it or was going through my second childhood. After our test drive, he was sold. A few may not like this car at first glance, but it doesnt take long for them to change their minds. For the price, there is not a car I would rather own.

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  An excellent Micro-Van - 2005 Scion XB
  By Mike-Row Van - March 1 - 10:00 am

  Toyota hit the mark. If it wasnt a Toyota, I wouldnt have bought it. Interior is perfect for a starting family. My 8-month pregnant wife, my 3 year old, and myself (64") can easily go for a comfortable ride. Great commuter car. First mileage was 39 MGP. Others may be heavy on the pedal. HP is sufficient for this type of car. Ive been looking for a year for a 2nd car and once I saw this car I put my money down. Much better legroom than TDI Jetta Wagon (poor VW rep/service/quality/JD Power/pricey). Not the premium $$$ and uncertainty of a hybrid. It can carry my kayak. Not a Focus wagon (too many recalls) Im an auto engineer from Detroit.

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  Love This Car - 2005 Scion XB
  By Sciren - February 24 - 12:23 pm

  Okay, Scion is meant for those under 30. I am 30. This is not just a Gen Y car, it is great for those of us who are 30+ and love a fun and reliable car. I made mine more er. . .grown up by having leather interior put in. Hey, I still have to commute and the gas mileage is phenomenal. For the price, it is well appointed and not chintzy in appearance/construction at all. Plus, its basically a Toyota which means you get top shelf reliability. For us older consumers who have families and careers to attend to and have no time to play dealership games, the no haggle pricing is a dream. Glad I traded my old boring Volvo for this Scion. I love it!

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  Love this car - 2008 Scion XB
  By Lisa - February 21 - 8:36 am

  I love this car - its everything I was looking for and more. I was driving a Honda Civic before, and this car is so much better in every respect - handling, power, room, style, options, ride, etc. The only thing I miss is the 31 MPG I got with my old car - now I get about 27 (90% city). Even so, its worth the tradeoff for all the other great things about this car.

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  the great Xb experience - 2005 Scion XB
  By Felix Lopez - February 18 - 11:13 pm

  to say that a vehicle that is cheap can be functional its usually some sort of marketing scheme, but after almost 10 months and almost 17,000 miles later I can attest that the vehicle is anything but a scam. This vehicle has everything that an expensive car should (abs, traction control, keyless entry, toyoguard)and yet is sold at an affordable price, and also its fun to drive, a very comfortable vehicle for long or short trips and the fact that people look at this car (is a hate or love it desing) I have had a lot of positive reactions to the car, so I recomend you go to your nearest toyota dealership and like myself start your own great Xb experience.

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  Love my xB - 2006 Scion XB
  By Jim - February 16 - 2:30 am

  At first I thought the 11 gallon gas tank would be too small, but I still get over 300 miles per tank. Its comfortable and I love driving it. When the salesman suggested it to me I said I would never buy that car, then I drove it, I am very glad I did.

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  Very Satisfied; fun car - 2008 Scion XB
  By pwcfcr - February 14 - 12:06 pm

  I love this car. Researched all different makes/models for 6 months prior to purchase. After 21 months and 30,000 miles this definitely was the best value for the money. Fun to drive. Comfortable with roomy. Easy to get in and out both front and rear passengers. Good gas mileage and pickup. Versatile. Does well in snow. Will definitely buy another one when its time to replace the Sienna.

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  Toyota Does it Again! - 2006 Scion XB
  By runninone - February 11 - 8:16 pm

  It is remarkable that a company can continue to build quality machines at three different price levels. Ive owned an Avalon, Camry and now Scion xB. While the xBs engine noise is rather loud at times, it gives the driver a great deal of confidence in handling and relability. For the Eastern winters I purchased four Bridgestone Blizzack snow tires; the traction and snow/wet handling are excellent. My gas mileage is climbing upward as I break the car in I expect the gas savings to be a big plus. One gets the sense that this car is well built for the price. Above all, it will be cost effective and have great utility. I expect the Scion lines to grow rapidly.

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  My new toy - 2008 Scion XB
  By onebat10 - February 10 - 2:20 pm

  I love this vehicle. The interior design with the inside door cup holders, the location on the gear shift and size are great. My best friend is 62" and has leg room and head room in the back. The Camry engine is definitely a plus and there isnt wind or engine noise. This vehicle does 100 mph without engine strain.

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  After two days of ownership - 2010 Scion XB
  By smb1234 - February 10 - 4:13 am

  It has been only two day of driving my Super White XB. I really like the way it handles. The center gauges are not really a problem. The steering wheel is not telescopic, but the drivers seat has a height adjustment, so there really shouldnt be a problem. The radio plays very well. The A/C is excellent. My only negative comment is it is a little noisy when accelerating, but it has been awhile since I have driven a 4 cylinder vehicle. Overall a great car for the price. Lots of space and very roomy inside. Great vehicle if you have dogs.