2009 Scion xB Review

Specifications

No matter whether you need to take the troops to the scout meeting or carry a load of lumber for that big project at home, the 2009 Scion xB can do double-duty. There is lots of room to handle whatever you need to carry. Also, there’s plenty of power under the hood to get you there without delay.

On the outside, the xB has the same boxy shape as its predecessors. But once you open the doors, you’ll notice this model has evolved into a practical wagon. Four adults can ride in it without feeling they’re in close quarters. Compared to last year’s model, it is a foot longer and 3 inches wider.

When it’s time to haul cargo, there is enough room in this 2009 Scion to do the job. Behind the rear seats, there are 21 cubic feet of space to stow your stuff. For the big jobs, those same seats can fold down to create 70 cubic feet of room. It’s really nothing short of cavernous.

OK, it has the room but can it still get up and go? Absolutely. The xB’s 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine can crank out 158-horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. It comes equipped with a five-speed manual transmission but a four-speed automatic with automanual control is available as an option. It’s rated at 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on highway, or 24 mpg combined.

The package of standard features in this Scion might be considered options in other cars of this stature. Included are air conditioning, cruise control, antilock brakes, and 16-inch steel wheels with the choice of three covers. Stability and traction controls help when maneuvering at low speeds as well as moving down the highway.

For safety in the 2009 Scion xB, there also are front-seat side and full-length side curtain airbags. Because no ride is complete without music, there is a six-speaker Pioneer CD stereo and a dedicated iPod jack, which permits playback through the head unit controls.

The manufacturer’s suggested retail prices are $15,750 for the version with five-speed manual transmission and $16,700 for the one with four-speed automatic.

While the standard features may seem to be enough, many drivers know the Scion brand for its dealer-installed options and the xB is no different. Drivers can add a rear spoiler and 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels. There is also faux carbon-fiber interior trim and four choices of colors for interior lighting to set the mood.

For entertainment, a top-shelf audio system allows images and video to be downloaded to the xB’s head unit display. Also choose from a touch-screen navigation system, Toyota Racing Development performance parts and satellite radio. A DVD entertainment system features LCD screens on the back of the front headrests.

No matter which options you add - or don’t add - the distinct styling and affordability of the 2009 Scion xB are for those people who think out of the box.