Scion XB Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.72/5 Average
1,427 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 571 through 580 of 1,427.00
  • The New xB is truly AMAZING - 2008 Scion XB
    By -

    I have only had this car for a few days but Im already in love with it. Im a college student and the fact that the car comes standard with so many features (power everything, cruise, cd/radio) is fantastic. Plus the car has an incredible amount of safety features (driver and passenger airbags, side curtain airbags, ABS, traction control). In addition to all that, the car is really fun to drive. It handles extremely well and really gets up and goes when you put your foot on the gas. And the car gets very good mileage for its size. Im very impressed and I dont regret my decision to buy at all.

  • Love It! - 2006 Scion XB
    By -

    I love this vehicle! I had a Jeep before this and loved it for 230,000 miles. I was looking at the Toyota Tacoma when I spotted the xB. I had thought that they were the ugliest thing on the road but when I looked inside I couldnt believe how BIG it was. Then I took it for a test drive and bought it immediately. After three months I still smile when I see it in the driveway (its sooo cute). The gas mileage isnt quite what they claim but I usually get about 27 mpg, only got 30 once. I love that when two xBs pass each other on the road the owners always wave or give the thumbs up, its like we are very special vehicle owners.

  • You will survive an accident - 2006 Scion XB
    By -

    This is my second Scion XB. The first one, a 2004 w/ XM sattellite radio, I bought new. Had it for a 2 years. I was rear-ended twice, then the third time I was rear-ended by a full size Chevy cargo van going 45 mph. The car gave its life so I might live. It was totalled, I walked away. So, I got another one, this time a 2006. These cars do not go accelerate fast with the a.c. on going up a mountain, but the $30.00 to fill up the tank is the payback. I get around 37 mpg up here in the mountains of New Mexico. It goes in the snow, but deep snow would be a problem. Maintenance is easy, you can do it yourself, but changing the belts is a little tight, you need to jack the car up.

  • My little xB - 2004 Scion XB
    By -

    The car has a wonderful new very unconventional design when compared to the current roundness of new cars. The car has lots of room for passengers or cargo but unfortunately not for both. Great gas mileage. Great no haggle buying experience, if you go to the right dealer.

  • MY SCION IS GREAT - 2004 Scion XB
    By -

    I LIKE THE CAR.. BUT I PERSONALLY UP GRADED IT .. WITH A TURBO FROM SCIONED.COM AND 19/8 IN RIMS FROM AND REAR LOWERING KIT GIBSON EXAUST HEADER AND DUAL EXAUST FLOWMASTER INTAKE AND STRUT BRACE. REAR AXEL BRACE. FACTORY SPOILER. AND A TORNAD0. IM GETTING ABOUT 220 HORSES OUT OF THIS PUPPY. I LOVE THE CAR.. THE XM RADIO READY STEREO IS GREAT WITH THE NEW 2 THOUSAND WATT AMPS INSTALLED. IT KICKS.. IM THE KIND OF PERSON THIS CAR WAS MADE FOR..

  • Scion xB - 2005 Scion XB
    By -

    Overall with the price of gas spiking almost daily, this little car gives a lot for the little gas it burns. It has a roomy interior and though its mileage doesnt quite stack up to its sticker, it is much better than most vehichles out there.

  • scions are hot and sweet as all hell - 2005 Scion XB
    By -

    ive had my scion xb for a while now and i love it - i wouldnt spend my money on any other car. im 17 and my xb is perfect for all of my needs and wants. its a true party machine - its modern, fun, futuristic, truly built to appeal to the younger generations. if you wanna be hot its the car to get . scions forever

  • The best box on wheels - 2005 Scion XB
    By -

    Just picked up the Scion XB release sires 2.0 with a ton of extras. Love it a lot

  • Cant Go Wrong - 2005 Scion XB
    By -

    This funny-shaped, tiny-motored car is the best deal on the planet! It is incredibly roomy inside and gets awesome gas mileage (I average about 39mpg with a 5-speed manual). In addition, you can get it completely tricked-out for less than $20,000!

  • xb is great - 2004 Scion XB
    By -

    car handles unbelievably well for a economy car!

Scion XB Reviews By Year:
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