For 2008, the xB's first ground-up redesign enables it to grow into that role, literally. The new xB is larger, bolder and just as cutting-edge as ever. Fashionistas and hipsters have no fear, the box hasn't lost a bit of its attitude. It's picked up a more powerful engine and improved road manners however; the better to be a serious all-around vehicle rather than just a cool-looking commuter that can carry more stuff than average.
The 2005 t2B show car predicted the styling of the new xB, a fact which is obvious from first glance. It's still a box, with narrow headlights and a solid, two-box look. Flow-through windows and a solid C-pillar accentuate the look. The xB has softer edges and narrow-ish windows, giving it a heftier, more burly look. Asymmetrical details like a single, offset reverse light add visual interest, and bulging fenders suggest a hint of performance capability. The new car is twelve inches longer, with a four-inch stretch to the wheelbase. Out of sight, subtle underbody aerodynamics reduce drag. With 69.9 cubic feet of cargo space, the xB is as big as some small SUVs inside. It could make a surprising alternative to some crossover sport-utes in fact, though it doesn't offer all-wheel drive.
The interior looks more conventional, but isn't ordinary by any stretch. If anything, it's slicker than the outside. The seats are tall, with the short cushions that have always characterized Toyota products, and they recline flat for impromptu camping if need be. The dash features a centralized four-gauge pod, and the nearly-flat console is decorated with chrome and wraps around the shifter. A driver information center with clock, temperature, fuel economy and range information is standard. There's a cool storage drawer under the back seat as well. Connections for an iPod and other portable music players are standard equipment, and the sound system comes with rear inputs to make adding aftermarket subwoofers and amplifiers easier. Scion clearly knows its customer base. The air conditioning system has been improved over the previous, rather weak system. A navigation system is also available for the first time.
The new xB gets a larger 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine, courtesy of the Scion tC. The 158-horsepower engine is well-suited to the xB's larger dimensions, and the box moves out nicely when given the urge. The 2.4 is actually a bit more engine than the xB needs, so it's a relaxed powerplant that's nearly silent at idle. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, with a four-speed automatic optional. The cable-actuated shifter lacks the solid feel of a true performance car's linkage, but is light and easy to use in traffic. Fuel economy, according to the revised, real-world based 2008 EPA figures, is 22/28.
The MacPherson front/torsion-beam rear suspension keeps the xB feeling confident. On the road, this car rides almost like a small SUV, thanks to the relatively tall ride height and spacious interior. Keeping things carlike, the longer wheelbase and low center of gravity give the xB a secure feeling, which is augmented nicely by the bank-vault design and blind C-pillars. It's not tippy in the least, and though it hasn't been set up to be a performance vehicle, the xB is likely to shine with minimal performance modificiations. The electronic power steering is light on effort, and well-suited to the xB.
Scions have always been well-equipped, and the xB continues that tradition. Four-wheel disc brakes, anti-lock brakes and traction control are standard equipment on Scion's box. Side and side-curtain airbags are also on the list.
Don't call the xB "entry-level," because it's a definite step above, in spite of its relatively petite dimensions. This subcompact has style and attitude to match cars four times its price, and the improved performance and freshened looks should bring a lot of loyal xB customers back. Pricing for the new xB has been set at $15,650 for the manual transmission and $16,600 for the automatic.
by Chris Jackson
www.car-data.com
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