Scion xB: Driving Inside The Box

It's not uncommon for new car models to be heavier than their predecessors. Higher levels of comfort and safety equipment can add a few pounds here and there as the product evolves. Scion's redesigned xB, essentially all new for 2008, is an entirely different beast, however, with a base curb weight that ballooned by 582 pounds - nearly 20 percent -- over the model it replaces.

Toyota launched the Scion brand to reach youthful buyers in 2003. The first generation xB was an immediate hit with Scion's target market. So square it was hip, the xB was a very utilitarian five passenger vehicle with an interior that was cavernous for its exterior dimensions.

For 2008, the second generation xB is a much larger car. Utilizing the European Toyota Auris chassis, the new model starts with a wheelbase four inches longer and now offers exterior dimensions that have grown by three inches in width and a full foot in length. It looks bigger and more substantial than its predecessor, too, with the first generation car's hard edges giving way to more rounded lines. More steel, glass, and additional safety equipment like standard four wheel disk brakes and curtain air bags bring the base curb weight to just over 3,000 pounds.

To handle the additional bulk and weight, Toyota transplanted the more powerful 2.4-liter four cylinder engine from the Scion tC in place of the 1.5-liter engine that propelled the old model. Going from 103 horsepower to 158 horsepower, a 50 percent jump, resulted in a level of performance needed for the more substantial new model but the additional displacement and weight do impact fuel economy.

Changes in the way EPA calculates fuel economy for 2008 make old vs. new model comparisons an apples to oranges relationship. However, EPA does offer reference numbers that apply newer testing calculations to vehicles from recent model years, in this way offering a way to compare the relative fuel economy of newer and older vehicles. Using these estimates shows that combined city/highway fuel economy has dropped by about 4 mpg from the older to newer models. Official 2008 EPA numbers for both the 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic xB are 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. During our testing we averaged 25-26 mpg overall and on one very conservative highway jaunt were able to coax just over 30 mpg out of the new car. In our view the new xB is an ideal candidate for clean diesel since a diesel's generous torque would help manage the additional weight and provide higher fuel efficiency.

The 2008 xB's 2.4-liter dual overhead cam four cylinder is a technically advanced engine with Toyota's Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVTi) and Toyota Direct Ignition. The additional 55 horsepower makes for much more spirited acceleration with 0-60 mph jaunts happening nearly two seconds quicker in the new car, stopping the watch in just 7.8 seconds. While larger and a bit thirstier, the new engine does carry a ULEV-II emissions rating.

The trendy xB is technically classified by the EPA as a small station wagon for 2008. With the rear seat folded out the Scion is a very practical hauler. Interior room is impressive, particularly in the back. In a word, the interior is functional. Climb in the driver's seat and you're greeted with a fat three spoke steering wheel that lends the promise of a fun driving experience. Our test car was a five speed manual, which made it that much more entertaining to drive. The xB's shifter is located in the console that merges out of the dash just below the radio and climate controls. This high and forward position feels quite natural and allows fluid gear changes.

Like the Toyota Yaris, the xB's gauge cluster is mounted in the center of the dash. Though it isn't directly in the driver's like of sight, it is mounted high at the base of the windshield and is easy to monitor. The three gauge pod is illuminated in fighter-style red and features a large digital speedometer, a tach that has 0-rpm at the ten-o'clock position, and a fuel gauge.

The xB's larger chassis delivers a smoother and more comfortable ride than the old model. The additional weight is noticeable during spirited driving, but it's not objectionable. Overall handling is quite good. Point it down a country road and you can't help but grin, especially if you enjoy shifting your own gears.

While the 2008 xB has grown and some would argue is a bit less "green," it still delivers a lot of bang for the buck. The base MSRP of $16,270 provides a very well equipped and well rounded vehicle. Included are vehicle stability control, traction control, tire pressure monitor, power steering, power windows, keyless entry, door locks and mirrors, air conditioning, and four wheel discs with ABS. Air bags are furnished in the front, front seats, and side curtain locations. A160-watt sound system with iPod dock provide the requisite sounds. It might not be as svelte or cute as the first generation, but the new 2008 xB is still a great alternative to plain vanilla economy cars.