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:

• 

  I Love It - 2004 Scion XB
  By Beth karch - July 16 - 7:10 am

  I have had my xB for one and a half years. It still seems new to me, nothing is breaking or malfunctioning. The interior still looks new with little up keep. I have owned many models and makes of cars. My xB and a Mazda Miata are the best cars I have ever owned.

• 

  Major Improvement!! - 2008 Scion XB
  By coldndenver - July 12 - 11:40 am

  After having a 2005 xB, I decided on a whim to go check out the 2008 xB. Right when I stepped inside this car I was sold! I took a test drive and I had made my decision on the manual. I have now have 4000 miles on my new xB and would never go back to the old xB. I cant think of anything better on the old xB except for the gas mileage, but I was willing to sacrifice that for more power. The new xB does not feel like a tin can like the older models and it is an all around safer vehicle with standard side curtain airbags. Ride is much smoother (especially in high winds) and quieter. I live in Colorado and it handles well in the snow with the stability/traction control and standard ABS.

• 

  It grows on you... - 2005 Scion XB
  By JpRoman1981 - July 11 - 6:36 pm

  When i first saw this vehicle, which was inside the mall, i really didnt like it. One of my friends bought one, so i rode in it around the block...ever since that, i have loved them. They are very unique cars love the "box-look". I got the Thunder Cloud Metallic one. This car is not for everyone, but it is for me.

• 

  Loving our Square Car! - 2005 Scion XB
  By Snarf09 - July 4 - 10:00 am

  We have had our xb 5speed for a little over two months now and love it. Coming from VR6 VW i was a little concerned at first about only having 108 hp, but with its VVti engine and light weight it really does feel quick around town and has no trouble doing 75-80mph on the highway. We have been averaging about 31/32 mpg overall in mixed city/highway driving. The room in the back seat is truly amazing and with the seats folded down it can hold huge amounts of cargo. I cant wait to try out the traction control in some snow! Anyone looking for reliable, efficent and totally unique transportation thats a blast to drive should really take a look.

• 

  1st Impression - 2005 Scion XB
  By BobV - July 4 - 10:00 am

  I found a odd vehicle but one that grows on you! Very well assembled and well thought out. Very well behaved on normal or winding roads a bit pushed on toll roads though. Economy above average Engine quiet and the list of normal extra cost equipment is amazing as it is all included in the base price!

• 

  I made the best car purchase - 2006 Scion XB
  By aliengirl2004 - July 4 - 9:20 am

  It is so nice to know with gas prices rising, I will hardly feel the pain! I love this car, and at first glance, I hated it like most people. The xB is something you warm up to when you start to get it. I love it so much, my husband and I both have one!

• 

  Exelent Vehicle - 2005 Scion XB
  By Benjamin - July 4 - 3:53 am

  The scion xB is basically the best car that Ive ever owned. It handles great, but you realize fairly quick that its not a muscle car. The interior of the car is incredibly comfortable. With high gas prices its one of the best options out there.

• 

  Pros and cons of Scion xB - 2006 Scion XB
  By cool car - June 30 - 5:16 pm

  When I first saw the Scion xB I thought it was a cheap and not that good looking of a car. Then the guy at the dealer told me not to put down the car untill you drive it, so I did and ended driving it home. I have been driving my Scion for four mounths and now I love it. It offers plenty of space, a good stereo system and the comfort of higher priced cars. I also love the fact that you can customize the car to however you want it. This car has been a good investment for me.

• 

  I love it! - 2005 Scion XB
  By Leslie - June 29 - 5:50 pm

  I have had my Scion XB for a month and truly love everything about it. It is fun to drive, though it does have a small engine and is not going to beat a ferrari out of a toll booth, it is peppy, especially the manual. I am very happy with it and advise people to test drive one if you are curious!

• 

  what it is - 2005 Scion XB
  By jonboy - June 25 - 11:56 pm

  fun little big car to drive stays with traffic and never intemidate on road would rate 8.7 total car