Scion xB 2009: Another boxy option

When Scion came out with the xB model in 2004, it was clear that the boxy vehicle could be a crate friendly alternative to Honda's Element, which seems to win the hearts of dogmobilers.  At that time, the xA seemed to be just a small econo-car, but with gas prices up and down, the smaller vehicles are finding a definite market. We'll review the xA and xD in a subsequent article. In this review we'll focus on the xB. 

I was very taken with this vehicle when I started to car shop around 2006.  The price was reasonable and being from the Toyota family, there was an image of quality and reliability.  It was a hit with the younger set, it's target market, partly due to the ability to customize each vehicle with a myriad of accessories. 

For the type of vehicle it is, there is a ton of interior room. Unfortunately, since I like wire crates, I didn't think I could fit all the crating in it that I needed and I felt the low bumper might scrape on inclines where I tend to drive. I am still enamored, however, with it's unique look. Definitely not for everyone!

When we went to look at the new 2009 models, we were impressed that the interior of the vehicle still provided much of the boxiness that the exterior lead us to believe. You could easily fit a dog behind the back seats with a divider for security. 

The back seats fold down relatively flat with only a slight rise.  Unfortunately, the spare tire is located under the cargo floor.  This is not unusual, but can be a bit of a headache if a flat occurs while on the road with a fully loaded cargo space.

Consumer Reports has this summary of the 2008 remodeled xB: "The redesigned xB is wider and longer. The new 2.4-liter four-cylinder has more power, but worse fuel economy. The ride has improved and handling is responsive. The gauges are still centered on the dash. The rear seat is enormous and the cargo area is large. Visibility is impaired by low windows and thick roof pillars. Curtain air bags and ESC are standard." 

Road test results were good, the vehicle is reported to have good reliability and consumers are very fond of their vehicles.  So, there are a few compromises, but all around, the xB appears to be a good option when looking for your next dogmobile. You won't be able to fit as much as the medium or large size SUV's but as a compact SUV, it's about the best in its class.  For the economical price and functional extras, one can't complain too loudly.

 

Price range

Base MSRP : $15,750 5 speed manual or 4 speed automatic transmission available

Mileage

Mileage estimates: 22/28 mpg 158hp 2.4-liter 4 cylinder engine Fuel tank capacity: 10.8 gal.

More Information

Cars Direct Information Autos at MSN Edmunds 2008/2009 Scion xB Owners Forum

Measurements
Depth from back door to front seats (2nd/3rd row folded) = maximum depth range (D1)	55-64.5"
Depth from back door to second row seats (D2)	22"
Dept from back door to third row seats (D3)	n/a
Height from cargo floor to ceiling behind front seats (H1)	32"
Height from cargo floor to ceiling behind 2nd row seats (H2)	34.5"
Height from cargo floor to ceiling at entry of vehicle (H3)	32.75"
Height of wheel arches (H4)	8"
Height from ground to top of bumper (not pictured)	27"
Width of cargo area at ceiling (W1)	43"
Width of cargo area maximum (approx. at 2nd row seats (W2)	52"
Width of cargo area between wheel arches (cargo "table" holders encroach into space)	38.75"
Illustrated dimensions 1 (W1, W2, W3, D2, D3) Illustrated dimensions 2 (H1, H2, H3, H4, H5, D1)

Ventilation

Back window does not open, but rear side windows do

Sunroof not available

Miscellaneous
Cargo tie-downs	Yes - several
Electrical outlet in rear	No
Electrical outlet in front	Yes - dc and ipod/mp3
Location of spare tire	Under cargo floor
Tailgate Lifts up	Yes
Roof Rack Capacity	Unk.
Rear Seats	Fold relatively flat
Towing	Unk.

Cargo Volume (cu. Ft.)
2nd-row seats folded down	69.9 cu.ft.
2nd-row seats up	21.7 cu.ft.

Extras
Power windows and door locks
Navigation optional