The Scion xB has been noted since its debut as a uniquely stylish, affordable and roomy vehicle. With its robust four-cylinder engine, spacious cargo bay and numerous available add-ons, the 2009 xB upholds this reputation while still serving as an extremely practical compact wagon.
The Scion xB was the brainchild of parent company Toyota, intended to attract younger carbuyers. The quirky, unique, yet highly functional xB succeeded right out of the gate. Redesigned for the 2008 model year, the current version, while still maintaining its tall and distinctive upright angles, has been enlarged for still further usefulness. It's now one foot longer, 3 inches wider and 2 inches shorter in height than its predecessor.
Standard Features And Options:
Standard features on the 2009 Scion xB wagon include full power accessories, 16 inch steel wheels (with a choice of three covers), air conditioning, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, and a six-speaker Pioneer CD stereo with a dedicated iPod jack (allows control of iPod playback through head unit controls).
A Scion model's uniqueness also carries over into its selectable optional features, with a large number of dealer-installed customization options. Scion xB customers can add a rear spoiler, 16 or 17 inch alloy wheels, faux carbon-fiber interior trim, as well as interior mood lighting offered in a choice of four colors.
Update: Weak Economy Leads To Lower xB Prices:
Scion's sales have been weak for over a year, along with most of the other carmakers. There's no question that dealers are struggling in this weak economy ... which means there are some extremely good deals to be had right now on a new xB ... often below invoice prices, sometimes far below.
See the link at the bottom of this article for exactly how to get the lowest price on a new Scion xB.
In addition, an optional premium sound system downloads images and video onto the head unit display. Other available options include touchscreen navigation, satellite radio, TRD performance parts, and a rear DVD entertainment system featuring front headrest-mounted LCD screens.
Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:
Powering the 2009 xB is a 2.4 liter inline-4 that produces 158 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. Its matched with either a five-speed manual transmission (standard), or an optional four-speed automatic with automanual control. An automatic xB has been timed going from a standstill to 60 mph in a very respectable 8.6 seconds.
EPA estimated gas mileage for the xB comes in at 22 mpg city and 28 mpg on the highway for both manual and automatic models.
Safety:
Standard safety features for the 2009 Scion xB include antilock brakes, traction control, stability control, front side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags.
Interior:
The xB sports a well designed, attractive and feature-rich interior as well as a roomy cabin with comfortable accommodations both front and back. There's 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 70 with the rear seats folded down. To help put this in perspective, the Toyota RAV4 has only 3 cubic feet more.
Drive:
With its fiesty 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine, the xB accelerates robustly and handling around town is quick and confident. Bear in mind, however, that the xB has a fairly high center of gravity and is not intended to be an impressive performer during brisk cornering. It is much better in lower speed maneuvers than higher speed.
Price:
How To Buy A New Scion xB At The Lowest Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2009 xB, here's a technique that will show you how to buy one at the best possible price, especially given the current slow economic environment.