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 love this car! - 2006 Scion XB
  By megenius - January 8 - 4:16 pm

  This is actually the second xB that I have owned! I havent had any problems from this car. I totaled the first xB that I owned, and walked away (from a crash that I shouldnt have) without a scratch. With this xB, I have been hit in the rear, and though the dent was big, there were not injuries. Like most people, I wasnt to fond of the car, and then I got behind the wheel. I LOVED it. My first xB was a manual, and had a little more "get up and go," but I love my automatic for convenience.

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  Possibly the Best Car Ever Made - 2006 Scion XB
  By bagbag - January 7 - 9:02 pm

  I bought the Xbox brand new in 2007 and love it. So far Ive put 40k miles on it and have no mechanical issues with it. People still comment about its styling and when they get in it they are amazed at the amount of legroom in both the front and back. I dont know how they did it, but I swear this thing is bigger on the inside than the outside. It still cracks me up when I pull into a parking spot and the thing only fills up about half the spot.

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  So Its not what I thought It would be - 2006 Scion XB
  By Stephenub - January 7 - 3:16 pm

  I bought it from the dealership used, and it was upgraded with Limo Tint, and nice 18 inch rims and tires. Well, I dont know if the problems I have had with the car are the manufacturers fault, or maybe the fact that I have 18 wheels on a car that normally has 14.But, the ride is NOT smooth at all. Its insanely bumpy at times, especially living in Southern California, and having pot holes everywhere. There have been many MANY times Ive muted my sound because I thought for sure I ran someone/something over because its so loud. Also, the MPG is a lot lower then I thought it would be, I get about 220-250 miles per tank.

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  The Most for Your Money.... - 2005 Scion XB
  By bob - December 28 - 7:06 am

  The 2005 Scion xB is a lot of car for the money. It has great saftey features, good gas milage, and good service. The only thing that I would change is it needs arm rests.

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  Fun Car, Milage not as Advertised - 2006 Scion XB
  By Isabel - December 22 - 4:50 pm

  I am slightly disappointed in my xBs gas milage, the best milage Ive have gotten is 31 mpg highway, 26 mpg city. I currently have 11,000 miles on the car. The paint is chipping off and I cant seem to get a touch up bottle from the dealer.

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  I love my car - 2004 Scion XB
  By doesey - December 21 - 10:00 am

  I absolutly love my Scion xb. I went on vacation a while ago and could not wait to come home so I could drive her again. If you are going to get look into the sunroof, it is huge and I love it. I was originally going to get an xa, but I am so glad I got the xb instead. It is such a better value then the xa in my opinion. If you are thinking about one, dont wait go get it, you will love it! I only have two minor complaints- I wish it had more power and I wish it had automatic lights since my last car did and I keep forgetting to turn them on and off. To compinsate for the power issue get a cold air intake, I think it helped a lot!

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  high teck - 2005 Scion XB
  By Don - December 11 - 11:03 pm

  i love it (and so does my mother who a month after i bought mine went and got a red one with an auto,) but i wish that it was geared a little differently or had a six speed. highway crusing with a 4000-5000 rpm whine frome the engine at 80 gets a little annoying when traveling long distances, plus the lack of arm rests on the front seats takes a while to get used to and need to be installed from the factory although it would take away from the side bolster which is very supportive to a big guy like me.

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  Fun, Reliable Vehicle - 2008 Scion XB
  By summamum - December 11 - 11:01 pm

  I am an original owner of an 08 XB which now has 58k miles; I have been satisfied with Toyota quality as I have driven them since 1980. I dont expect luxury, just practicality and affordability. With the XB I have gotten both. I cant expect this vehicle, or any other, to be forever free of mechanical problems since every car will eventually be in need of repairs. Thus far, Ive only had to repair shaky brakes due to warped rooters [?] and Scion did require a recall for a faulty power window button, which was covered by the warranty. I am satisfied with this XB and I would purchase one again and recommend one. It is stylish and fun to drive. I can always depend on Toyota.

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  My First New Car! What a Winner! - 2008 Scion XB
  By girlbuffalo1 - December 10 - 3:13 pm

  I just purchased this car 3 days ago so perhaps I am a little biased but I really think its quite wonderful. We had tested the HHR, Mariner, Freestyle, LaCrosse, Vibe, and Caliber (I know I have tastes all over the place). This was by far my favorite for a number of reasons. 1. Love the look - sleek yet boxy, really stands out. 2. Very roomy on the inside, flat fold seats, great interior, already used to center gauges (thought it would take awhile) 3. Better fuel economy than what I traded in (2002 Suzuki Vitara) 4. Price (great deal! I was going to have to buy used until I found the xB) 5. Engine is nice, not too small anymore, great feel of driving. Check it out!

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  Balance the car - 2009 Scion XB
  By JBE - December 7 - 2:40 pm

  I love the XB but it needs some visual balance. First the single backup light needs a partner to balance the bumper. Also, annoying is the fact only one armrest is provided but at least it is for the driver. And one final" want" for my XB would be dual pipes to really make a power statement. I guess it is the old v-8 mindset that I grew up with in the 60s.