I generally like things that reflect a certain free-spiritedness. Yet, I wasn't a fan of the very individualistic, previous-generation Scion xB (shown above). To my eyes, it was about as attractive as an ambulance.
What a difference a redesign makes...
The 2008 Scion xB (shown above) is a foot longer than its predecessor, and 2 inches shorter in height. This lends it a more streamlined look; the xB has been transformed from a strange square into a somewhat less-strange rectangle. It's also 3 inches wider than the old xB, which gives it a more solid stance. Its edges are more rounded, too. The spirit of the wagon is obviously the same, but the tweaks add lots of improvement. I'm still not exactly in lust, but the xB has definitely grown on me.
The highlight of the xB's makeover, though, has got to be its torque-ier new engine. With 158 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, the eager little 2.4-liter inline four never failed to step up to the plate when I needed some back-up this weekend. And I loved hanging out in this Scion's comfortable, ridiculously roomy cabin.
The xB's unique looks may make it a turn-off to some, but most will be pretty impressed if they spend some time behind the wheel.
Warren Clarke, Automotive Content Editor @ 8,282 miles
The highlight of the xB's makeover, though, has got to be its torque-ier new engine. With 158 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, the eager little 2.4-liter inline four never failed to step up to the plate when I needed some back-up this weekend. And I loved hanging out in this Scion's comfortable, ridiculously roomy cabin.
The xB's unique looks may make it a turn-off to some, but most will be pretty impressed if they spend some time behind the wheel.
Warren Clarke, Automotive Content Editor @ 8,282 miles
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