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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  My Second Scion - 2008 Scion XB
  By OhioGirl - February 6 - 6:26 pm

  This is my second Scion - I traded in my 2005 xB. I loved my first one and I love this one too. I really like the new look!

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  The little box that could... - 2004 Scion XB
  By Liz - January 29 - 9:33 pm

  I did a google search on new cars that cost $15,000 or less and this car was in the group. I had never seen it on the streets before and took a look at it at the dealership. After the test drive, I researched this vehicle. Consumer Reports rates it as a good buy, and it is one of the best for fuel economy. Also rated excellent for interior room...who could deny that. Great for tall or disabled people. Forget about this being a "youth" car, Im 46 and I love it. I also got the manual, and its so fun to drive! I bought it on e-bay, and drove it from CT to IN, 1,000 miles w/no problems. Scion = Toyota = Quality!

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  Great Little Car - 2005 Scion XB
  By Dave in Asheville - January 23 - 10:26 pm

  The Scion xB is a great vehicle. It is so easy to get into and out of, its just the right height for old stiff guys! It is peppy enough and fun to drive. The interior space is wonderful. Its traction control and anti-lock brakes are great in the snow. Plus it has great dependability.

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  Best Box Made...Anywhere - 2006 Scion XB
  By OldDaddy - January 20 - 4:36 pm

  Purshased this car new in 2005. I can not say enough good things about it and I have had 57 cars...by actual count. I dont know what the guy is doing that got only 14 mpg, but I think he needs a new calculator. I have never gotten less than 26 mpg and even got 40.1 mpg on one freeway trip with one aboard. I know it looks nerdy but it is more fun to drive than any car I have ever had(the list includes sport cars, Mercedes, Volvos, etc.). We have 90K on the box and expect to go to 200K then give it to a grandchild.

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  Great little car - 2009 Scion XB
  By Old Man - January 20 - 4:33 pm

  Ive had my xB for 4 days now. The hardest thing about buying one was deciding between Stingray Metallic and Black. I chose Black because I figured Black would always be in style. It actually has a metallic gray look to it, which really sets it off. This car is so much fun to drive. Its quick, agile, and very responsive. Even with the A/C on, I can merge onto the expressway with no problem. The ride is comfortable, although my wife prefers the cushier seats in her Lexus. There is very little road or engine noise. The stock radio/CD player sounds great. We have 4 Toyotas in the family, and this one certainly does not disappoint. It has the same build quality as the others.

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  fun mommy car - 2009 Scion XB
  By renee27 - January 16 - 12:53 am

  My father suggested I try sion xb out instead of a suv with my children in mind, I love this car. The dealership was friendly and informative, I have to be honest I thought the car was ugly but when I drove it I fell in love, smooth fun driving, love the hatch back for beach and groceries, and fold down seats, my two bucket car seats fit perfect in the back for my 3 and 5 year old the only complaint I have is my children have a hard time looking out the window problem at Christmas with all the light, ,, I average about 32 mpg on fuel and even drove in the snow without problems, my driveway is steep and have no problem getting up. I would recommend this car to all fun mommies with 1-2 kids, safe

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  Post-modern Car - 2006 Scion XB
  By mattblowers - January 15 - 2:50 am

  This is a great car. It is a car that is either loved or hated by consumers. There is no middle ground. It is fun, fun, fun. It is a nimble, little, urban loving car. It has a very tight turning radius. It darts in and out of traffic effortlessly. If you are looking for something a little out of the ordinary, with great fuel mileage and reliability, this is the car for you.

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  Best Fun since the "60s" - 2006 Scion XB
  By Izzy - January 8 - 1:16 am

  This car is fun and economical. I am in the process of trading in my New Beetle Turbo for my second Scion xB. We are now a 3 xB family, soon to make it 4 xBs in the family.

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  Great Buy - 2006 Scion XB
  By Lindsay - January 6 - 4:46 am

  I have had this car for three months and have over 10,000 miles. It is a winner. It really is a great utility vehicle with a sporty feel. I have gotten 34 MPG on all freeway driving, I had an aftermarket cruise control put on it and built my own arm rest making it a great travel car. Its top quality, cool looks, and great performance will continue to make this a best seller.

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  2005 Xb with Webasto Sunroof - 2005 Scion XB
  By Kenchan - January 2 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Thundercloud Xb with 17" Saachi chrome alloys, and (custom installed) Webasto Grandview Sunroof. Just about everything youd want is standard like ABS, AC, CD player, and traction control. Ive already put 200 miles on it, and I love it. The ride is smooth, and the five speed trans has more power than the automatic that I drove at the dealer. I catch alot of stares from Honda Civic drivers for some reason. I dont race around in it, but I cruise. I would recommend the Scion to any of my friends. The best part about my experience so far is probably the gas mileage. Ive driven it for 200 miles so far on half tank of gas.