2008 Scion xB Review

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The all-new 2008 Scion xB keeps the boxy shape of the former model, but its edges become a little softer and it's a size larger overall. Length is up by about a foot, width by three inches, and wheelbase by four inches.

To handle the larger size and weight of the new xB, a larger 2.4L four-cylinder engine is standard. The engine, which is used throughout much of the Toyota model lineup and has variable valve timing, makes 158 horsepower and is paired with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. All xBs have front-wheel drive.

The xB promises a good, well-controlled ride combined with responsive, nimble handling. Brakes are especially notable; four-wheel anti-lock discs, with ventilated discs in front, are standard. Safety is also a... see more

The all-new 2008 Scion xB keeps the boxy shape of the former model, but its edges become a little softer and it's a size larger overall. Length is up by about a foot, width by three inches, and wheelbase by four inches.

To handle the larger size and weight of the new xB, a larger 2.4L four-cylinder engine is standard. The engine, which is used throughout much of the Toyota model lineup and has variable valve timing, makes 158 horsepower and is paired with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. All xBs have front-wheel drive.

The xB promises a good, well-controlled ride combined with responsive, nimble handling. Brakes are especially notable; four-wheel anti-lock discs, with ventilated discs in front, are standard. Safety is also a strongpoint; stability control, front seat-mounted side air bags, and side curtain bags are all standard.

The interior offers a surprisingly roomy back seat good for two adults, or three in a pinch. They're split 60/40 and can fold flat to expand the already large 21.7-cubic-foot space to handle larger loads. There's a "hidden" storage tray beneath the back seat for small items like laptops. In front there are several storage boxes and trays, a driver's armrest, and the front seats can fully recline. A multi-information display with trip computer functions is included, along with orange-lit gauges.

The standard 160-watt Pioneer audio system features MP3 and WMA compatibility, digital media player connectivity, and a mini-jack input. It is also one of the few units that displays the device's track, artist, and album information. In addition, it includes steering-wheel audio controls. A premium audio system is available as a dealer-installed accessory, and it brings an electroluminescent screen that has customizable "skins" and can play short video clips and images.

Scions are sold in a very different way compared to most car brands. The xB comes in a single specification, with no factory options, but there are a number of dealer-installed options aimed at customizing the vehicle for customer needs. For instance, among many possible options, these may include a more flamboyant exhaust system, a short-shift kit, flashier wheels, or customized interior lighting.
The very distinctive, boxy Scion xB has been completely redesigned for 2008 and becomes significantly longer and wider, with a more powerful 2.4L engine, increased standard safety features, and upgraded audio systems.

A navigation system, with a seven-inch screen, is new to Scion's line of dealer-installed accessories. see less

Trims	City MPG	Hwy MPG	MSRP	Invoice	Displacement	Engine
5dr Wgn Auto (GS)	22	28	$16,600	$15,770	2.4L/144	Gas I4
5dr Wgn Auto (Natl)	22	28	$16,600	$15,770	2.4L/144	Gas I4
5dr Wgn Auto (SE)	22	28	$16,600	$15,770	2.4L/144	Gas I4
5dr Wgn Man (GS)	22	28	$15,650	$14,867	2.4L/144	Gas I4
5dr Wgn Man (Natl)	22	28	$15,650	$14,867	2.4L/144	Gas I4
5dr Wgn Man (SE)	22	28	$15,650	$14,867	2.4L/144	Gas I4

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2008 SCION XB STYLING | [8 out of 10]

Cars.com: "The edges have been rounded a bit here and there"
Automobile: "Bigger, softer-looking exterior"
Motor Trend: "An appearance of visual mass and menace"

In 2003, Toyota set out to create a youth brand, Scion, that featured very non-traditional styling, and on that count, it has definitely succeeded. The styling of the Scion brand, especially the boxlike 2008 Scion xB, is very divisive, but consumers have responded to the tune of more than 170,000 Scions sold last year. For 2008, the Scion xB gets new styling both inside and out.

The original Scion xB debuted about five years ago, and Scion designers have apparently decided that xB Scion owners have accumulated a lot more stuff to move around in the last half-decade. In order to facilitate all that hauling, the designers have made the 2008 Scion xB much larger and heavier. Edmunds states that "the 2008 Scion xB is exactly 1 foot longer than the last box, 3 inches wider and actually 2 inches shorter in height," dimensions that give the car a "more substantial, less toylike appearance." Kelley Blue Book finds that, unlike the crisp lines on the old xB Scion, "the 2008 xB is noticeably rounder...than its predecessor." Cars.com adds that "the new xB remains as distinctive as its predecessor, even though the edges have been rounded a bit here and there," though whether or not that's a good thing is open to interpretation. The styling on the entire Scion lineup inspires strong reactions, both positive and negative, and some reviews read by TheCarConnection.com leaned toward the latter. Car and Driver derisively refers to the 2008 Scion xB as "a junior minivan."

(see full review)

2008 Scion xB

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