2008 Scion xB: Road Test
2008 Scion xB ▼
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- MSRP: $15,650 - $16,600
- Invoice: $14,867 - $15,770
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Our road test for the 2008 Scion xB includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Scion xB from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Scion xB, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Scion xB help you decide if a 2008 Scion xB is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base, manual | Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.8 |
Acceleration is good from a stop, even with the automatic transmission. There is more than sufficient low- and mid-speed passing punch, but highway passing power disappoints. The automatic is sometimes slow to downshift for more power. Clunky shift action and high clutch take-up make smooth driving difficult with the manual transmission.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base, manual | Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a manual-transmission xB averaged a disappointing 18.6 mpg with slightly more city driving than highway use. With an even city/highway mix, an automatic-transmission xB also disappointed with its average of 20.0 mpg. All models use regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base, manual | Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.2 |
The firm and controlled ride is impressive for the class. Small bumps are felt, but only large ones jolt the structure.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base, manual | Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.9 |
There is moderate body lean in fast turns, and the steering response is slightly vague. A tight turning radius and light steering feel aid low-speed maneuverability. The brakes are strong and responsive.
QUIETNESS
| Base, manual | Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.5 |
Bump noise is generally well controlled, though larger bumps pound through loudly. Moderate highway wind and road noise are present. xB's engine is slightly gruff during acceleration, but it's largely unobjectionable.
CONTROLS
| Base, manual | Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.7 |
Some elements of the xB's cabin take getting used to. The instrument pod includes a digital speedometer and is mounted high in the middle of dashboard, out of driver's direct line of sight, an annoyance to some testers. The transmission shift lever is mounted on lower part of dash rather than on a console. More conventional are the high-mounted audio and climate controls which are simple to operate and easy to reach. The available navigation system incorporates some audio controls, complicating their use.
DETAILS
| Base, manual | Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.2 |
The interior lacks soft touch surfaces, but the materials are still pleasant for the price. Some testers noted that the driver's arm rest felt flimsy and was mounted too low to be useful.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base, manual | Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 5.7 |
The seats are comfortable and supportive, and the driver's adjusts for height. Headroom is ample, but taller folks may want more legroom. The large rear roof pillars complicate rear visibility.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base, manual | Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 4.1 |
Plenty of adult-size headroom, foot space, and legroom, even with front seats all the way back. Cabin width is not generous, though, so three adults will be squeezed. Note that some testers found that the rear shoulder belts rested uncomfortably across the neck.
CARGO ROOM
| Base, manual | Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 4.9 |
Several bins and trays--including a cubby beneath rear seat--supply handy interior storage. The split rear seatback folds nearly flat without removing the headrests. The cargo area has a handy under-floor bin. The glovebox is on the small side, and the door pockets are rather short and shallow.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base, manual | Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 6.2 |
Scion's iconic "box" grows from subcompact to compact dimensions, gaining cargo room, power, and weight along the way. This trip to finishing school also included a healthy dose of additional refinement, but the redesigned xB is not the fuel sipper it once was. Some of its former quirkiness was lost in the transformation, but it remains a practical, "edgy" alternative to more-traditional small cars and SUVs and easily rates as a Best Buy.
Total Score
| Base, manual | Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 71 | 71 | 58.8 |
Total Score: 71
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