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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  I CALL HIM "MR" XB - 2009 Scion XB
  By MR XB - February 24 - 11:23 pm

  I purchased my white XB with 19 miles on it. I added (dealer installed) a moonroof, scion security and lo-jack, fog lights, cargo cover. From the outside it looks so small, but it is huge on the inside. I love the performance and sometimes fool around with the semi-manual shift for fun. I am very glad not to see a XB every where I turn. The biggest selling point for me was the safety features you get for the low price.

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  Love my little 2006 XB - 2006 Scion XB
  By DMichael - February 19 - 1:56 pm

  I had a Camry Hybrid, which was great for fuel economy and comfy to ride, but the huge battery ate up all the trunk space and that was a problem getting several guitars and amps to rehearsals and gigs. I wanted something small but with max cargo space, so I gravitated to the XB. I was blown away by the space inside this little car. I recently drove from LA to NYC in 3 days, with 4 guitars, a banjo, a mandolin, a couple duffle bags, my miniature schnauzer and my little sister. We drove through desert, over mountains and through a day and a half of pounding rain, and I love that little XB even more now!

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  So ugly its cute - 2005 Scion XB
  By Stephanie - February 18 - 10:30 am

  I did not expect to buy this car; but after sitting in it and driving it, there was no turning back. It really reaches out to a younger generation with tons of standard features and still affordable. Even the options are not outrageous in price. Definitely the most fun vehicle out there.

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  The best box money can buy! - 2005 Scion XB
  By Hinds66 - February 15 - 10:00 am

  The is a car that has the three major car buying catogories licked, Insurance, Safty, Gas Mileage. Other than that you either love it or hate it. ME well i traded a brad new lexus For my Xb and have not looked back. I dont think i will sell my box!

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  fun driving mini box - 2009 Scion XB
  By john - February 15 - 7:50 am

  I traded in my 2000 GMC Yukon XL (210,000 mileage) for this BOX. It was a Great car to drive and I do not miss my yukon XL at all. My family loves it too.

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  Functional and Fun - 2008 Scion XB
  By ducksquat - February 15 - 12:33 am

  We bought this car for my wife because she wanted something roomier on the inside and smaller on the outside. This was the perfect vehicle for her. She traded her Honda Accord for this vehicle. Built entirely in Japan, the quality is top notch and has yet to experience any problems. I cant believe that I can sit very comfortably in the backseat despite my 64" frame and the font seat is the same. Headroom is excellent. The four cylinder Camry engine has plenty of get up and go but I wish the average MPG were better. We do mostly city driving and average 24 mpg.

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  Great Car!!!! - 2008 Scion XB
  By Legends - February 13 - 12:40 am

  This car is exceptional! Between the extremely sharp looking exterior (midnight blue with tinted windows, it always stands out in a parking lot) and a functional, amazingly spacious interior this car has it all for a very realistic price. I cant over-emphasize the spaciousness of this car. Sit in one and youll see what I mean. Well drive the hell out of it until Toyota comes out with a hybrid version of the Scion xB or an electric and only then will we make the switch.

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  Scion Got It Right With the 2008 XB - 2008 Scion XB
  By Mary - February 9 - 5:16 am

  I owned a 2005 XB and always hoped Scion would make some improvements. Im proud to say they got it right with the improved 2008 XB. I traded my 2005 XB in May, 2007 for the 2008 XB. The improved model boasts a larger, 2.4 engine with A+ pickup. Tighter, smoother suspension and a quiet, roomy cabin make this car a true delight to drive. Ive added alloy wheels, rear bumper guard, rear sway bar and Sirius satellite radio. I like the extended trunk room and revised dashboard. The price is right for all the extras, quality and satisfaction youll find with the 2008 XB. It also handled the road very well in the Western New York/Buffalo winter. I have no regrets buying the 2008 XB.

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  Survived an 800 pound moose! - 2005 Scion XB
  By Megan - February 1 - 9:40 pm

  I bought this car in May of this year mainly because of the value and incredible gas mileage. I had been driving it for just under three months when I hit an 800 pound moose going out 55 mph on the highway. My brother and I walked away with no injuries whatsoever, something that everyone who actually saw the car couldnt believe. Its in the shop now and I cant wait to get it back because now I know that on top of being cool, economical and fun to drive, its a very safe vehicle.

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  Great Decision - 2005 Scion XB
  By Elliott Beck - January 30 - 1:40 pm

  I really needed a quality but inexpensive car for college and the Scion xB was the perfect thing. It gets amazing gas mileage, the room inside is great and I can appreciate it cause Im 64 and it really is fun to drive. Of course its no speed deamon but thats what you sacrifice for the gas mileage and price and I knew that going in. Since Ive had it, three of my friends have gone into the process of getting one they love it so much.