2008 Scion xB Video

When it debuted, the Scion xB was one of the only small, boxy cars on the road. Now that competition like the Kia Soul and Nissan Cube has arrived, how does the xB hold up? Cars.com reviewer Bill Jackson takes you through the 2008 Scion xB. Although he likes it as a fun, practical car, he points out the areas where the xB gets it wrong.

Comments

So I guess its a free pass on the interior design and Walmart grade plastics. Hard to believe considering that is one of the pet peeves of reviewers here. I have not been in an economy car with a cheaper feeling interior. NOTHING is soft in the entire car. Also, the center storage bin is USELESS. I guess they think ipod generation drivers don't need space for CDs or anything else.

xB is super practical and at the same time comfortable car. Reliable - probably.
Everything else can go to negative side. For example, my Highlander is rated only 1 mpg hwy less and 2 mpg city less then xB, while it is substantially larger.
and what's up with this center mounted gauges? Who's idea was that?

The review was definitely generous to say the least. Cargo capacity and acceleration are the only two positives of this vehicle. The gauges are small and poorly places, the wind noise is noticeable and the interior is on par with the Caliber.

Woah, woah, Sheth, the interior is definitely waaay better than the Caliber, the plastics are hard, yes... but they're good for this class.

One of the best cars out there for the price.

"Woah, woah, Sheth, the interior is definitely waaay better than the Caliber, the plastics are hard, yes... but they're good for this class."

Why because the Caliber is a Dodge? Have you been inside the xB? Probably not. I assure you it has plastics that are as hard and cheap feeling as the worst compacts on the market. In fact, overall I would say the Caliber has a better interior because its at least ergonomic. The xB's interior looks odd and is made of cheap materials.

"One of the best cars out there for the price."

Based on what? It offers no more than any other cheap vehicle except cargo space. Its build quality, interior and refinement levels are all average for the compact class.

It is not good value for the money, if it cost 10k, then it would be good value, now it is an expensive toy.

I guess you guys are right. It's not that great of a car. It isn't reliable, doesn't have a class leading amount of cargo space, decent interior volume, nice standard amenities and a decent gas mileage for $17,000. Your're right ...I guess the HHR and Aveo are probably better buys. Or maybe the Focus or the SX4 are much better.

Oh I forgot about the Dodge Caliber or the Jeep Patriot. Those are probably the best choices. Pay about $3,000 more and spend more trips to the dealer to get work done. That would be the reason to get one of those over the xB. Boy that's no brainer.

lol. The sarcasm is unbearably hilarious.

ziggy:

You aren't funny or particularly mature. The mileage of this box is NOT great. The Malibu, Fusion and Camry get better mileage than the xB. Its useful only because its a big box- thats simply a matter of the basic shape. That doesn't make it a "great" car. reliable? I guess it is but so is the competition. The Aveo is much smaller than this. HHR is the same concept, only less boxy and more efficient. Both vehicles have plastic interiors and lack any semblance of luxury. What standard amenities does this car have? A well equipped compact would be the 3 or even Rabbit- not the xB. It doesn't have any more than any other cheap car. Its a hald hearted effort by Toyota aimed at apologists with low expectations- people like you.

If this thing were a chevy Dave T would be all over it. Good thing its a Toyota.

Go back to India.

What? I dont even understand your insult. I live in PA- never been to India. When you run out of steam its always good to resort to nonsensical insults. Still wont make the xB anything more than a mediocre small car that would be ridiculed by cars.com if it wore a Chevy or Dodge badge.

leh zaient ima shha

I have the 2010 model and have no complains even the with the center gauge. The car was meant to be a practical all around car: decent look, roomy, decent gas, good price, reliable, customizable. It didn't cost me much to add a nice leather seat cover and other little upgrades to make it fun to ride in.