Scion xB

The Scion xB has the body of a miniature delivery truck, even in its second generation this box still casts a distinctive silhouette. We liked the first-generation xB for its distinctiveness; after all, it was little more than a rebadged version of a Japanese-market Toyota. Scion had the American market specifically in mind when it made the second-generation model bigger and more powerful, though some originality was lost in the process. But overall, a new or used xB is a fine pick for a small and stylish wagon. Current Scion xB The Scion xB is offered in two trim levels: base and Release Series 9.0. Standard features on the base xB include full power accessories, air-conditioning, cruise control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and a six-speaker Pioneer sound system (with a CD player, HD radio, an iPod/USB audio interface, an auxiliary audio jack, a customizable display and an RCA output for additional speakers). Highlights of the Release Series 9.0 include unique Hot Lava paint and faux suede upholstery. Options are limited to transmission choice and dealer-installed items such as upgraded audio systems and different wheel designs. Every xB sports a 2.4-liter inline-4 that produces 158 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a four-speed automatic is optional. Inside, the xB's boxy lines translate to a surprisingly roomy interior that allows you to transport three to four friends with no complaints from the backseat. It's so roomy that some cities even employ xBs as taxi cabs. When the time comes to haul stuff rather than people, the 60/40-split rear seats fold flat, revealing an impressive 70 cubic feet of space. In road tests of the current xB, we found it feels fairly stable at highway speeds. The xB is responsive and confident at lower speeds, though over rough surfaces the ride can get a bit bumpy. Taken from Edmunds.