In-Depth Review of the Toyota Scion xB: Design, Features, and Performance Insights

The Toyota Scion xB is a compact, stylish vehicle designed for urban living and personalized customization. Known for its distinctive boxy design, reliable performance, and affordable price, the xB offers a spacious interior, efficient engine, and numerous safety and entertainment features. Its various trims and unique exterior make it a popular choice among young drivers seeking a versatile and customizable vehicle that combines practicality with modern style. This comprehensive review explores all aspects of the xB from design to performance, safety, and tech features.

Complete Guide to the Toyota Scion xB

Since its debut in 2002, the Toyota Scion xB has established itself as a distinctive and popular choice within the compact car segment, especially among younger drivers seeking a blend of affordability, style, and practicality. Crafted under Toyota’s Scion brand, which was specifically aimed at urban youth and early adopters, the xB became renowned for its unique boxy design, extensive customization options, and reliable performance. The model was produced until 2015, marking the end of the line for this iconic subcompact vehicle, which combined innovative styling with functionality.

Introduction to the Toyota Scion xB
The second-generation Toyota Scion xB introduced a bold and functional design that accentuated its boxy silhouette, making it instantly recognizable on roads worldwide. Built upon the Toyota bB platform, primarily designed for North American consumers, the xB was adapted to fit the preferences of local markets with specific features such as left-hand drive configuration. Its design drew inspiration from Kei cars - small, efficient Japanese vehicles - but was purposefully larger to accommodate a broader range of passengers and cargo, making it a versatile urban vehicle.

The shape of the xB was a defining characteristic that contributed not only to its aesthetic appeal but also to its spaciousness and practical use. The car's design aimed to appeal to a youthful demographic that valued a vehicle that stood out from conventional sedans and hatchbacks. Its distinctive silhouette, combined with a focus on personalization and accessory options, made it an appealing choice for consumers who wanted to express their individuality through their vehicle.

The xB’s bold exterior design proved to be a major selling point, catching the eye of passersby. It was larger and more refined than its predecessor, offering increased interior space without compromising its urban agility. The vehicle was well-suited for city dwellers, students, young professionals, and small families looking for dependability and customization options. This model became especially popular for its ability to be personalized with various accessories, paint choices, and trims, aligning with the lifestyle of younger, tech-savvy buyers who wanted their vehicle to reflect their personality.

Trims and Variants of the Toyota Scion xB
The Toyota Scion xB was available in multiple trims, catering to different customer preferences and needs. The main options included:

4-speed automatic transmission version, designed for ease of driving and convenience

5-speed manual transmission version, preferred by enthusiasts and drivers seeking more control

686 Parklan edition, a special edition model featuring a five-door wagon configuration, with additional luxury features and unique styling elements

Each of these variants provided a different experience, ensuring that consumers could select the model that best suited their driving style and lifestyle requirements. The availability of different trims underlined Toyota’s approach to providing versatile, accessible vehicles for a broad audience.

Powertrain and Performance Capabilities
Under the hood, the Toyota xB housed a capable 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 158 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain allowed the vehicle to handle city traffic with ease and offered adequate acceleration for daily driving. Paired with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission, the xB was designed to deliver a smooth and controlled ride. The front-wheel-drive layout enhanced its handling, making it an ideal city vehicle with nimble maneuverability.

Accelerating from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 8.6 seconds, which was competitive within its class, providing enough power for urban commuting and light highway use. The suspension system consisted of a front Strut setup and a rear Torsion Beam, balancing comfort and stability, while four-wheel disc brakes ensured robust stopping power.

Fuel efficiency was a priority for the xB, fitting with its target demographic of budget-conscious and eco-aware drivers. It featured a 14-gallon fuel tank, with an EPA-rated fuel economy of approximately 22 MPG in city driving, 28 MPG on highways, and a combined figure of 24 MPG. These numbers underscored the vehicle’s economical design, making it a cost-effective choice for daily commutes and urban lifestyles.

Exterior Design and Aesthetic Features
The exterior of the Toyota Scion xB was designed to appeal to a youthful audience seeking a bold statement. Influenced by Toyota’s Echo and Yaris models, the xB showcased a geometric, boxy profile that maximized interior space. Standout features included 16-inch black alloy wheels wrapped in P205/55R16 tires, a black front grille contributing to its aggressive look, and body-colored bumpers that blended seamlessly with its design language.

noteworthy exterior elements also included black door handles, deep-tinted windows for privacy, fixed interval windshield wipers, galvanized steel panels for durability, and auto-dimming mirrors that added to both convenience and style. The rear of the vehicle featured a liftgate, allowing easy access to cargo, making it well-suited for shopping trips and daily errands.

Overall, the exterior design balanced practicality with attention-grabbing aesthetics, making it a favorite among young drivers eager to stand out on their daily drives. Its customizable exterior options meant owners could choose different paint colors and accessories to further personalize their vehicle.

Interior Comfort, Features, and Technology
The interior of the xB focused on maximized space and versatility. Comfort features included power-assisted steering, steering wheel-mounted audio, and cruise controls for driver convenience. The cabin comfortably seated five adults, with features such as one-touch power windows, remote keyless entry, and bucket seats upholstered in fabric, providing a casual yet functional environment.

An adjustable driver’s seat with six-way manual controls allowed for customized positioning. The rear seats could be folded down in a split configuration, enhancing cargo capacity. Manual air conditioning kept the interior climate comfortable regardless of outside weather conditions. The floor was covered with durable full carpeting, and reading lights aimed to enhance visibility and comfort during night drives.

The entertainment system was designed with young drivers in mind, featuring a 6.1-inch touchscreen stereo system that supported AM/FM radio, Bluetooth hands-free calling, steering wheel audio controls, a Pioneer sound system with six speakers, USB and auxiliary inputs, and a speed-sensitive volume control for a premium sound experience.

Additionally, this model offered a variety of customization options, such as upgraded navigation systems, premium audio processing, leather upholstery, heated front seats, and security enhancements including improved engine immobilizers and glass break sensors. These features allowed owners to tailor their vehicle to their personal preferences and needs.

Safety Technologies and Ratings
Safety was a key priority for the xB, reflected in its strong safety ratings and comprehensive features. The vehicle received favorable ratings from the IIHS, backed by standard safety components such as electronic stability control, ABS brakes, traction control, emergency braking assist, side impact beams, engine immobilizer, dual-stage airbags, and tire pressure warning systems.

Modern safety features like a backup camera and adjustable seatbelt anchors further enhanced driving confidence. The inclusion of these safety technologies made the xB a secure choice for urban drivers and families alike, emphasizing its reputation as a reliable, safe vehicle.

Entertainment, Connectivity, and Added Amenities
The entertainment experience inside the xB was tailored to meet the needs of tech-savvy young drivers. The centerpiece was a 6.1-inch touchscreen stereo system that managed audio, radio, and connectivity features. Bluetooth enabled hands-free calling, while steering wheel controls allowed for easy access to entertainment options without distraction.

The Pioneer sound system with six speakers delivered crisp, high-quality audio. The vehicle’s user interface supported USB and auxiliary inputs, allowing seamless connection to smartphones and MP3 players. Speed-sensitive volume control further enhanced the listening experience, adjusting sound levels automatically based on vehicle speed.

Furthermore, the customization options extended to entertainment, with potential upgrades that included advanced navigation systems, upgraded audio components, leather-trimmed interior, heated front seats for added comfort, and enhanced security features like improved immobilizers and sensors for better theft deterrent. These features collectively amplified the vehicle’s appeal among young, technology-oriented consumers.