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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  My Second XB - 2008 Scion XB
  By 2nrmom - June 11 - 8:01 pm

  My first XB was an 04 auto white. With the guidence of my son I did some modifying of it. It was pretty cool! Improved horsepower with a short ram intake, header and exhaust. Rota bronze wheels, lowered and a CF hood completed the look. I loved it but after a time I needed something bigger. Fast forward to present day.. I needed to downsize. While I was very partial to the 04 boxy style and room I knew I would love to have a bigger engine. Also didnt like the huge flat windshield of the 04 that had to be replaced every year. I bought an 08, dark blue, auto, used with 47k. So far I have had no problems with it. So nice to zip around again! Will make improvements to customize.

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  2008 Scion xB - 2008 Scion XB
  By Job - June 9 - 12:33 am

  My wife was appalled when I brought this thing home for her. But after driving it for a while she likes it. I was looking at everything in this price range and below and found nothing but blah until I saw this. Good car, good utility, bit of a head-turner, great safety features, first-aid kit, easy in-and-out, kids love it, and my bride is off my back. Its an econo-Camry with some style.

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  Southern Scion Lover - 2006 Scion XB
  By Larry Stewart - June 7 - 6:23 pm

  Although I have only owned this car for two weeks now, I feel confident that I made a fantastic purchase. It handles well, the interior is well thought out, and its "tight as a tick."

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  xB - 2013 Scion XB
  By JC Gela - June 4 - 1:08 am

  This 2013 xB has not required any repairs. Just changed the oil/filter and rotated the tires. The OEM tires were crap, however, and now Im on Snows; in the market for summer tires and maybe alloy wheels.... This has been a very "handy" vehicle. Id be in the market for a new one with newer safety features - but Toyota has discontinued the Scion brand. I dont really want to move up to a RAV4 (hybrid) but maybe a PriusV if they still are making it next year.

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  too bad - 2008 Scion XB
  By had to trade it in - June 3 - 4:46 pm

  Had a very high expectation level for the 08 xB. The Camry engine was a plus, except for my actual 26 mpg on the highway. Over all, I just didnt find it enjoyable to keep. It was difficult to see stop lights, poor color selection, the rear bumper is a dust and dirt magnet, the style gets a bit long in the tooth after only 6 months. Couldnt slow down the rear window wipers.

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  Best value on the market today - 2009 Scion XB
  By Brad - June 2 - 5:10 am

  My fiance was looking for a good city car and we were interested in a low cost vehicle. I am a huge car nut, so I wanted something cool looking, reliable, and good fuel economy.We looked at everything with one determining factor being that I have to fit in it. For all of you tall guys 64+ this thing has tons of room for legs and plenty of headroom. The ride is very smooth, handling is great, acceleration still amazes me, it feels like a strong 6 cyl. Fuel economy is also incredible, we hit 28mpg avg with mix of city/hwy. Versatility is well thought out, this thing swallows as much as a truck bed could. All in all this is a best buy. I would highly recommend this car to anyone old or young.

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  Love my Scion - 2005 Scion XB
  By Suzy Mortimer - June 2 - 2:06 am

  In my youth it was MGs and then any used car that would run me all over Los Angeles. In 2000, I retired, moved back to Tucson and drove 15 mile to the gallon Jeep Wranglers. I wanted a change and spotted the Scion xB. Where ever I go, young people ask about this car. They want to sit nside and say its their car of choice. I see Scions popping up all over the place and when I talk to other Scion owners, "Love my Scion," is the first thing they tell me. Its great gas mileage, good reliability, and solid design make this my favorite car of the many Ive owned over fifty years. My husband drives a Ford Explorer and lately, Im hearing him say, "Lets take the Scion."

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  Great Little Car - 2005 Scion XB
  By Jim_NH - May 30 - 7:16 pm

  We bought the Scion xB after looking at every car at the Boston Auto Show. It replaced our 1988 Volvo 740 wagon. The xB is designed perfectly for a family of one to three people. The interior leg room is huge for a small car, as is the head room. These cars are built solid and are very cheap to buy and maintain. In 15,000 miles, we have only had one problem -- the headlights were aimed too high. That is a testiment to Toyota quality. We take our yellow xB Release Series 2 to Canada quite often where it is mobbed by people wanting to buy one (its not available yet in Canada). Overall, its like a Mini Cooper station wagon.

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  Take it from me -- Youre Safe! - 2006 Scion XB
  By theredhead6 - May 23 - 9:46 am

  I just rolled my Scion xb. it rolled onto the drivers side and I climbed out without a scratch! No windows broken, no roof or hood damage, no rear damage. Just point of impact (and its not that bad really) and scratches all along the drivers side since it was laying on that side. This is a safe car, guys, and Im a lucky gal.

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  Good stuff - 2006 Scion XB
  By Nate DIGGITY - May 13 - 5:23 pm

  I bought this car early 2004. It runs great i have driven from Los Angeles to Denver Colorado. Lots of fun! No problems, A couple of trim and finish issues but besides that everything with this car is GREAT. I have the custom intake and exhaust. The only downside of this car is no pick up! However there is enough power to get through the Rockies in the snow without a problem.