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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  New xB - 2005 Scion XB
  By SMusick - December 13 - 8:06 pm

  I had researched the Scion line, and was already impressed by the features for the money. I had originally intended to buy an xA. A quick drive in the xB and I knew that was the Scion to own. As a previous Toyota owner I was already sold on quality and reliability. My xB is amazingly fun to drive.

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  Great Vehicle - 2006 Scion XB
  By LARRY - December 11 - 3:33 am

  I couldnt be happier in my Scion xB. This car rides better than my 2004 Toyota RAV4. It is fun to drive and I am getting about 31 mpg around town. Its seats give great support and the interior cabin noise is almost nothing. The style of the vehicle takes time to grow on you since it is so radical but really love the looks now.

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  Its a Great Box - 2005 Scion XB
  By Sion Girl - December 9 - 1:06 pm

  Yes, people may laugh at the way she looks. People may call her names and point fingers. In order to truely love her you must look to the inside and what she has to offer. Know that the moment you set behind her wheel she is there to comfort you and give you a ride like no other. The feeling you get when you are inside is that of a luxury combined with a sporty vibe. So, drive on; drive into the sunset.

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  Scion, the new Geo - 2004 Scion XB
  By ScionBuddy - December 9 - 2:00 am

  I had this car/van for 2 months and I already had the clutch go bad, it rattles and the power window died. I thought Toyota was suppost to be a quality car? I had a Saturn for 7 years and never had one problem other than were and tear related. I will probably sell this car right before the warrenty is up.

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  This Car is the Greatest - 2006 Scion XB
  By KATIEJ - December 5 - 3:26 pm

  Ohh this car is great! I mean, you really cant get any better. You have the size of a car, the space of an SUV and the looks of a unique car. Its so totaly great! Buy one. Im plan on getting another one when my daughter turns 16 next month. You can also trick them out like crazy! There are so many different styles. We will have fun and im sure you will too!

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  Gets everyones attention - 2005 Scion XB
  By Jessie Stone - December 4 - 8:16 pm

  I love to watch heads turn as I go by. they are curious what it is as there are only a few in my area.

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  Scionara xB1, Hello xB2 - 2008 Scion XB
  By west scide - December 4 - 11:10 am

  Traded in an 06 3 weeks ago after driving it just 3 months shy of 2 yrs. As much as I enjoyed the 06, I like the 08 a lot more, it is a much better car overall. The 06 was perfect for commuting and trips to local places. I enjoyed driving it as long I was the only passenger but with wife, two kids and occasional third party, the fun goes away especially freeway ride > 30 miles. The 08 has addressed what the 06 lacked: power, safety, cargo behind 2nd row, lack of basic amenities, cup holders, cruise control. However the MPG, cool styling, and fun to drive has decreased on the 08. For me the 2.4L and safety of the 08 was worth the upgrade.

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  Lovin the XB - 2005 Scion XB
  By Toaster Lady - December 4 - 7:00 am

  I purchased this car for my teenagers as a economical, and safe second vehicle for our family. They have yet to get the opportunity to drive the car. I just fell in love with every aspect of this car. It out performed all of my expectations in drivability, fuel economy, and interior comfort. It doesnt look like much, but it was worth every penny. I told the kids we would have to get another one for them, because I was not willing to turn over the keys. Also, since I purchased this vehicles in Oct of 2004 I have not experienced any mechanical, or cosmetic problems with this car. If youre looking for fun economy, then get this car you wont regret it. Toaster Lady, Az

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  best design from toyota - 2004 Scion XB
  By fairy1399 - December 3 - 2:00 am

  the car drives great. it handles turns great. it is a smooth ride

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  Wow - 2004 Scion XB
  By mike - November 27 - 11:03 pm

  This is a great car. Very practical great standard options. Only wish it had a little more horsepower.