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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  Illinois driver - 2004 Scion XB
  By Tyler from Illinois - July 31 - 10:00 am

  I purchased this car for my business. I drive around 800 miles a week and needed something comfortable and economical. This car fit my needs. I didnt want a standard run of the mill car. I wanted to buy American, but nothing had the combination of gas mileage and looks.

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  9+ - 2005 Scion XB
  By Blackswann - July 31 - 10:00 am

  This Vehicle is a road warriors dream. With all the miles I put on a car this car has simply performed like a champion. Great milage and comfort a real winner!

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  boxcar - 2005 Scion XB
  By jszteiter - July 31 - 10:00 am

  excellent handling and gas mileage. more room than you can believe. fun to drive. cruises at 70-75 with no strain.

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  After one year and 18,000 miles... - 2008 Scion XB
  By Rob - July 30 - 6:40 am

  ... my Scion xB is still living up to my expectations with zero problems and gas mileage consistently over 30mpg. With 69.9 cubic feet of storage with the rear seats folded (more than a Jeep Grand Cherokee at 67.4 cu.ft.) The xB can carry a lot of stuff if needed. Bottom line is that the Scion xB is a great value, reliable, efficient. Negatives are few at this price point. Ride can be a bit intrusive on bad roads but still solid. Interior plastic scratches easily... thats about it really. I am always looking for a replacement for the car that I currently drive. Just to see if there is something that would work better for the price. I havent found it yet.

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  I Love It - 2006 Scion XB
  By scionxb tricked out - July 27 - 6:43 am

  I love my new Scion xB. Its new, different, fast and tricked out. Try it and youre hooked. Ive added about $7,000 in aftermarket and TRD parts to mine. It beats Hondas hands down.

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  05 Scion xB - 2005 Scion XB
  By scionoc - July 25 - 10:00 am

  This car is affordable and fun to drive with accessories found on much more expensive cars. Traction Control and Vehicle Stability Control are unheard of in a car for less than $15,000.

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  Happy Scion owner - 2005 Scion XB
  By chiefie - July 25 - 10:00 am

  A lot of people tease about the shape of the Xb but after all the kidding is done all agree that it is the roomiest car they have ever seen. I have been averaging 29 MPG day to day driving and I have gotten as high as 39 MPG on the road but 34 - 35 MPG is the norm. The versatility of the car is great. I have carried 4 passengers comfortably and have been able to carry doors and lots of STUFF in it. The Xb is the greatest small car I have ever owned. The only car I hold in higher regard is my 1967 Mustang.

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  My second xB - 2008 Scion XB
  By witchever45 - July 24 - 12:46 pm

  I just traded my 2004 xB in for the new 2008 xB. I LOVE everything about the new xB. I thought my old one was great, but the new one is so much better. It is faster, roomier, and much quieter. It still has everything I liked about the old one but the improvements to it are amazing. It has made my bad commute to work much easier to deal with. I would recommend this car to anyone.

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  Toyota Delivers A Winner - 2005 Scion XB
  By SlagleRock - July 19 - 10:00 am

  I owned a Toyota bB while stationed in northern Japan. When we left we knew we would miss that little "ride". We were totally unaware that Toyota had introduced the bB in the U.S. as a Scion xB. The minute we heard the info we searched for a dealer. We went to take a look and I was amazed. Other than the fact that the steering wheel is on a different side of the vehicle it appears that Toyota delivered just like it was in Japan. The xB is an awesome little "ride". You can "pimp" it out or just leave it as is. Either way it turns heads. I have been pulled over by Cops who "just wanted to know what it was." It draws tons of positive attention.

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  Over 40? Easy Entry, Easy Exit - 2004 Scion XB
  By Smitty - July 18 - 7:53 pm

  My Thundercloud Blue Metallic B was the first one ordered and delivered to the MIDWEST via Molle Toyota, KC, Mo. Ordered it with AEM, H-strut, security system, amber footlights, and chrome doorsills. I added an armrest this past year, it wasnt available in 2003. It gets between 29 (summer heat) and 36 MPG. I only drive 5 miles to work, but it will double next year to 10. I use it weekends for short trips, chores, jaunts under 200 miles; drive it roundtrip once a month to St. Joe MO. My wife loves it - after I got the armrest. I expect to drive it as a commuter until I retire next decade... unless a better B comes along! My only problem with it was a broken drivers door latch, which was fixed under warranty.