2011 Scion xB Review

A singular price point of $16,000-even represents the 2011 Scion xB. Toyota's Scion brand continues to gain worldwide popularity as an innovative, fuel-efficient and surprisingly fun "urban utility vehicle". It delivers 22/28 mpg city/highway as estimated by the EPA and competes with vehicles like the MINI Cooper Clubman ($20,450) and the Volkswagen Jetta ($19,510). It's shaped much like a cube and definitely stands out in a crowd. It features a 158-horse 2.4L 4-cylinder engine that cranks 162 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. A 5 speed manual stock transmission completes the powertrain (4-speed auto with manual shift mode optional). Either transmission is controlled by a highly-positioned shifter for added sporty appeal.

Teeth-chattering AC, standard 16-inch wheels and power window/locks/mirrors are just a few of the standard features for the 2011 xB Scion. Straight from the factory, you will also enjoy:

• Remote keyless entry;
• 160W Pioneer audio;
• Satellite radio;
• MP3 capability;
• Audio input jacks and USB connectivity;
• And loads more...

The new xB by Toyota's Scion is aggressively styled on the outside and surprisingly comfortable on the inside. New this year, both bumpers, the grill, the headlights and taillights have been redesigned. A new central console unit with a sliding armrest steals the focus of the freshly tweaked interior. You'll find loads of cubbyholes, drink holders, innovative lighting devices and other convenient features that make traveling comfortable and enjoyable.

Standard safety features for the xB Scion 2011 include:

• Electronic stability control;
• 4-wheel antilock braking;
• Electronic brake assist;
• Electronic traction control;
• Tire pressure monitoring;
• Dual side, side impact and overhead curtain airbags;

Length, width and height measurements of the 2011 xB from Scion have been reported at 167.3 x 69.3 x 62.6 inches. It clears the ground by 5.1 inches, has a 3020-pound curb weight and travels on a 102.4 inch wheelbase. On the inside, front passengers can crane about in 40 inches of headroom (41 in the rear), 56 inches of shoulder room (55 in the rear), 53 inches of hip room (47 in the rear) and 40.7 inches of legroom (38 in the rear). The standard 21.7 cubic feet of luggage capacity can be expanded up to 69.9 cubic feet by folding the rear seating down.

The 2011 Scion xB features comfortable seating for 5 adults and a 14.0-gallon fuel tank. You can expect to easily travel over 300 miles per fill up. 2011 is the fourth production year for the xB, and this year it is bigger than ever. A longer wheelbase, longer overall length, larger overhangs and softer angles also make it less boxy and more stylish than ever before. Test drive a somewhat quirky, yet highly cool Scion xB soon and get a fresh perspective. And remember, Toyota's incentives and financing options are really difficult to top right now.