xB’s Quirky Design Wins Over Mom

2009 Scion xB

model as tested $17,994

Test Drove 5/28/09 – 6/11/09
reviewed by Sara Lacey

Everyone has an opinion about the 2009 Scion xB, and it was fun to hear them during my test drive. This distinctive hatchback was compared to a breadbox, a mailbox and other boxes — but people, I loved it. I loved its design, shape and funky style. Go ahead and judge me, I’m not scared.

The xB isn’t scared, either. With new competitors coming out all the time in this segment, the xB should be nervous, but it doesn’t act like it is. It confidently handles many driving situations; it looks super fresh, even though its redesign is a year old (that’s ancient in automotive and teen time). What fascinated me about the Scion xB is how many different types of people drive and love this car.

Driving the Scion was great. It was so much fun that I second-guessed the xB’s factory sticker that said it has a four-cylinder engine. The 158-horsepower four-cylinder is incredibly peppy, but the car is loud in terms of engine and road noise. It’s most noticeable on the highway and not as bad when driving around town.

In the xB, I found myself acting like a teenager who had just gotten a driver’s license: “Do you want me to run to the store for you?” With the xB’s phenomenal gas mileage of 22/28 mpg city/highway — I averaged 29 mpg — I didn’t hesitate to offer my services. What’s not to love about this car? Well…

shopping around: At cars.com

• Side-by-Side Comparison
• Auto Loan Calculator

• Build your own
• Check for Rebates

Take the Next Steps at Cars.com

Find This Car Near You Research This Car

you might: Also Like