First the "likes":
- Surprising all-around performance thanks to the big torquey four and an automatic transmission that's quick to step down a gear when needed. You just don't expect a super-sized breadbox on wheels to have such quick pick-up.
- Amazing amount of cabin space given the small footprint (the xB is actually shorter in overall length than a Yaris sedan!). Being able to fit into a curbside parking spot that a Corolla (which is nearly a foot longer than the xB) has to pass up is priceless in a crowded city.
- Handy cubbies, including one on the upper left side of the dash that was perfect for my wallet.
And the dislikes?
- As we've noted before, the xB's fuel economy is a bit disappointing, I averaged 24 mpg and that mostly on open freeways (a rarity here in L.A.). In fairness, that number falls about midway between the (more realistic for 2008) EPA estimates of 22 city / 28 highway. But sheesh, a midsize V6 family sedan with 240-plus hp can get 24 mpg on the open road.
- The tilt steering wheel has about a one inch range of adjustment, rendering it almost useless. Guys, couldn't you've been a little more generous here?
- The display for the audio display washes out in sunlight. As the display screen pivots upward to allow access to the CD / DVD slots, it would be nice if you could pivot it downward slightly past vertical to get rid of the glare.
- Blind spots from the thick C pillars. Maybe Scion could install opera windows in them, ala a mid-70's GM luxury car like the '75 Buick Electra pictured. In that case, it would also have to have a heavily padded vinyl top...
John DiPietro, Automotive Editor @ 7,348 miles.
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