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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  All Boxed Up - 2006 Scion XB
  By EJ - May 11 - 12:06 am

  The Scion xB is a great car. I bought it to replaced my leased 03 Highlander V6 which was also a great vehicle. This box gets great gas mileage and is fun to drive. Even though it is low on power, the 5-speed makes it more interesting to drive. I will add an intake, exhaust, and headers to spice things up. A turbo might come later. Its space is great, audio is great, and it is very inexpensive to maintain. One thing to note is the A/C system seems a little weak for this small car.

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  From an ex GM-FORD-PONTIAC-CADILLAC Owner... - 2008 Scion XB
  By momofx - May 7 - 6:24 pm

  Coming from someone who owned big luxury SUVs, I must say the XB is worth the money. I have never had any issue with mine and since switching from a big 6L V8, I have taken more roadtrips in the past year than in the previous 5 years of just having a gas guzzling V8. The amount of room the XB has is amazing. I am 6ft4 and I can VERY comfortably drive it. My buddy who is about 6ft but alot bigger guy was totally shocked how comfortable he was in the passenger side! Also alot of people dont know that these have the award winning Camry engine in it. Being an auto technician, ANY vehicle needs its usual maintenance people so dont think its gonna run forever with just gas cos its Toyota!

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  Great value and space for the price - 2012 Scion XB
  By tyson evans - May 7 - 4:34 am

  Amazing on gas, well equipped, gets the job done, and room for our kids and all their stuff!

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  Love my little box on wheels!! - 2004 Scion XB
  By apauletta - May 7 - 2:00 am

  I used to drive a giant chevy caprice. It loved to drink gas and was a drag to drive. Now I have my Scion and I love it!! It is adorable, fuel efficient, comfortable and zippy to drive. I can stop smiling everytime I get to drive it. I love how different it is from all the other cars out there, really something distinct and special.

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  Been Deceived - 2005 Scion XB
  By scott - May 3 - 1:36 pm

  The mileage ratings quoted by Scion are totally bogus on this car. They say it gets 30 city and 34 highway (or government says). Im a 46 year driver that wanted a high mileage vehicle and by no means a lead foot. I routinely am getting 20 mi./gal in the city. This has been a real disappointment for me as I could have bought a hybrid for a little more. Has anyone else out there gotten such poor gas mileage with their Scion XB?

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  Great ride - 2006 Scion XB
  By john reed - May 1 - 9:36 pm

  I added undercoating, cold air intake, cat back exhaust, driving lights, euro style rear lights, and this vehicle is now quieter, peppier, gets improved mpg, which adds much to a fun to drive machine, in my opinion. It is a little under powered, but I bought it not to be a race car but a good looking, fun to drive and different looking vehicle. I also added graphics on the sides which gave it a dramatically neater look. I have been very pleased and will probably hold onto this one for many years because it is so much fun to drive!

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  The Best by Far - 2005 Scion XB
  By incubusman - April 30 - 8:00 am

  i know a lot of people who dont like the way ithe Scion xB looks, but it is the roomiest car I have ever owned.

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  Good Value - 2008 Scion XB
  By bb - April 23 - 5:03 pm

  I have had my xB for about a week. I traded in a 2003 Honda Element when I bought this vehicle. I have to say that the Scion, with its upgraded engine, seems to be a better car than the Element. More comfortable seats, less rattles, better handling and better mileage. I think the xB is a good value for the money when you consider expected depreciation, good mileage, Toyota reliability, and cute factor. I think you get a lot of car for the price.

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  Good Idea But POOR Quality and Resale - 2008 Scion XB
  By beetleboy - April 21 - 4:23 pm

  My mother in law bought a 2006 and then traded for a 2008. I just had to have one with the wheels and spoiler package. 30,000 in first year, small accident and seat warped. Then pulled too close to curb and pulled inner fender out. Tried to trade on anther toyota product and found it was worth 6500 less than what I had paid for it. Wanted a Yaris for fuel economy but bought a loaded KIA M/van for 50 less a month than a base yaris. Also trim on roof blew off going down interstate and hit another car. POOR WORKMANSHIP ON SCION. You can tell it is the LOW end of Toyota. Back seat bottom is cheesy and uncomfortable. Gas mileage dropped to 22 on interstate driving depending on type of gas.

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  my first Scion - 2004 Scion XB
  By Old Smokey - April 20 - 10:00 am

  We just bought an 05 xB, and are loving it. My wifes Grand Cherokee never quite fit her small size, but this little cutie is just right. Although we are in snow country for about three months, were hoping the ground effects will clear. I put on new Toyo all season tires, which will help in winter driving too. My in laws took a ride and couldnt believe all the room. Time will tell as far as reliability goes, but the Toyota name is a plus. I also bought the extended warranty, zero deduction, since I am traveling half the time and my wife wants no hassles. Will add more as the miles fly by.