Scion xB
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FUEL ECONOMY:
22 / 28 MPG 10.69 / 8.4 L/100km
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BODY TYPE:
Van
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TECHNOLOGY:
Small Car
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BASE MSRP:
$15,700
The Scion xB is sometimes simply called “The Box.” Its unique, squared-off, wide-panel design is unmistakably urban and youthful—though its edges have been rounded with the new 2008 iteration. This stylish little vehicle is a blend of a small car and a compact crossover utility. Beyond its cool, citified looks, the xB’s appeal comes from a high level of affordability, practicality, and believe it or not, performance.
Power for the xB comes from Toyota’s 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine yielding 158 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. That kind of output for a vehicle this size is more than just adequate. It’s downright noticeable. In both highway and city driving, the Scion xB has the ability to punch ahead of traffic when the need arises. Its higher torque number also gives the xB a good shot of power from a standstill position. It unquestionably exhibits more performance prowess than most sub-compacts, compacts, and compact crossovers currently on the market. It’s unlikely that xB owners will ever complain about shortage-of-power issues.
Energy is channeled through either a standard five-speed manual transmission, or an optional four-speed automatic transmission. Both gearboxes result in government fuel economy ratings of 22 city/28 highway.
On the road, the new xB is as stable and solid as before, due to a compliant suspension. But keep in mind that it is a fairly tall vehicle with a higher center of gravity. The Scion xB offers a comfortable ride and good handling, especially for tight, low-speed maneuvering on small city streets and in parking lots. And the vehicle’s oversized windows provide exceptional driver visibility. The xB is quiet and smooth, making it ideal for all types of driving—local errand running, long commutes, or all-out road trips.
The xB’s cabin is deceivingly spacious. It is much larger than its outer appearances would suggest. There is room enough to seat five comfortably, and total cargo volume that rivals larger vehicles like the Honda CR-V. And there are mindful, yet unexpected interior extras such as a first aid kit, and an optional premium audio system that adds one more feature to the standard head unit. Customers can download images, four-second video clips and eight-second movies from Pioneer's website. In addition, Pioneer software allows customers to burn their own images and movies onto a CD and upload them onto the available head unit.
Anti-lock brakes and Tire Pressure Monitoring are notable standard features.
The Scion xB is a jack of all trades. It excels in virtually all areas of motoring. With the versatility of an SUV, the efficiency of a compact car, the drivability of a crossover, and the performance of a V6-powered midsize, it’s a curiosity how “the Box” stickers for under $19,000.
