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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  LOVE IT! - 2009 Scion XB
  By sandy c - December 5 - 2:50 pm

  I love this Car. I had a Focus and it drove terrible and only got about 27 mpg. I researched on Edmunds and saw all the good comments so I decided to try the XB because it is like a suv but better on mileage and had a standard transmission; I just like manual. It was everything I could have wanted, lots of airbags and my elderly father can get in and out easy.

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  Near Perfection - 2005 Scion XB
  By Mellow Monster - December 4 - 6:53 pm

  At 62" and 265 lbs. with bad knees the xB is the only new car sold that I can get into and out of with ease. The last ten years I have had to buy gas guzzling full size pickups or SUVs. I like it so much, I helped two of my daughters buy Scion xBs It is very versatile and one of the most practicle vehicles made. Im 60 in N.H. and my daughters are 39 in Ill, and 29 in Tenn. so the xB has broad appeal.

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  my little fun box - 2005 Scion XB
  By girlracer - December 3 - 10:00 am

  I purchased this car as a impulse buy, and so far I have no regrets. My only problem is that i went from a suv with a 350 and a 12 sec.qtr. mile street car to a car with only 108hp. but what do you expect from a car that is based at $14,000 new. It is fun to drive and GREAT on gas!! after a few motor up grades it might just be my favorite car i own.

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  A great car - 2008 Scion XB
  By willie - November 29 - 10:20 pm

  I test drove the Scion XB in November just after Thanksgiving. I looked and looked at all other available cars in this class. Bought the Scion XB on 8 Feb and absolutely love it. I bought front and rear stabilizer. Tightens up the chassis even more and it corners like a banshee. Was going to lower to improve handling more but find it does not need it.

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  I love this little car - 2005 Scion XB
  By Sandy - November 27 - 1:03 am

  I have only had this Scion Xb a week, so far I love it. Been debating on buying it for months, and finally did so I can save miles on my Yukon and save gas money. My kids love it, husband loves. People are impressed with the roomy interior. It is fun to drive. I love the 5 speed. Easy to park compared to my Yukon Xl.

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  My Box - 2005 Scion XB
  By mwj12487 - November 24 - 12:26 pm

  I financed this car with less than 23k miles on it, and so far have about 54k on it. In that time I havent had to replace anything but a blown tire and a headlight bulb. Scion, although marketed towards those of us in the younger generations, I find to be majorly consumed by those of you in your early to late 50s. The Toyota reliability is completely apparent. If you are searching for a great commuter car that slowly sips on the gas, the Scion xB might just be your heaven-sent. If you are looking for a speed-demon, a luxury soaked dream cruise, look someplace else. Although I adore my "foxy box", it doesnt ever trick you into believing its anywhere above an economy car.

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  My Mil Box - 2005 Scion XB
  By DD LAMMEY - November 24 - 5:46 am

  This has been one of the best cars I have owned. It has supprising power when you need it. The only thing that I dislike about it is that the rear window needs to open seperately. Other than that, it has been one of the best vehicles. It also gets great gas milage.

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  2006 Scion xB - 2006 Scion XB
  By Will - November 20 - 8:10 pm

  Ive been driving the xB for a month now and continue to be very pleased with the purchase. As advertised, its great for urban driving conditions, schlepping people and gear, and climbing hills--all while sipping fuel. It drives tight on dry roads...a little less so on snow/ice but still very acceptable for a non-4X4. Acceleration and cruising speeds are more than adequate for normal day-to-day sub/urban driving. Due to high revs over 75 mph, I would not recommend the xB to Montana drivers (they wouldnt give up their P/Us anyway).

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  Great car. Dont hesitate! - 2009 Scion XB
  By Joyce - November 18 - 7:06 am

  LOVE the 2008 Scion XB that we just purchased. GREAT to drive! Only thing not quite up to the vehicle par is the armrest which is rather funky. Other than that just the best car. Would HIGHLY recommend. FUN to drive..turns on a dime! My husband and I are actually fighting over it! He is a Porsche man and I have driven a BMW for 22 yrs. we both think it is a great car and feel it will be a no hassle vehicle. Great dealership...really took care of us without the pushiness. Got tired of the high maintenance vehicles and love that it takes regular gas, so far 27.5 mpg and enjoy the simplicity. Cant say enough good things about this car!

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  JOIN THE SCION CULT FOLLOWING!!!!! - 2005 Scion XB
  By Radiodude - November 16 - 12:53 pm

  The perfect car for folks who are a little bit utiliarian (cost, resell value, space, operating cost)while not forgeting what make a a car enjoyable... the stylized appeal, customization, and "fun drive" factor. The scion XB like many toyotas is very practicle transportaion... but unlike other Toyotas the Scion brandline is quickly proving that practicle CAN be fun and exciting too!