2003 SCION xB 1.5L VVTi 4AT (108 HP)

Vehicle Overview

When Toyota tried to launch a popular sub-brand in the U.S., it created the Scion, which was supposed to be not just more affordable but also looks different. The xB was among its first products.

Toyota didn’t want to risk too much with the Scion and just re-badged some of the cars it sold in its home market and moved the steering wheel to the left. Thus, the Toyota bB, which was already on sale since 2000, became the Scion xB. It was a vehicle dedicated to those who couldn’t afford a spacious, dependable vehicle.

It was easy to recognize the kei-class car shape of the xB. Its short front end was followed by a tall greenhouse extended to the back in a cubic design specific to that Japanese vehicle category. But it was bigger, and that led to larger windows all around. Moreover, it featured a third row of windows behind the rear doors. At the back, the vertical tailgate looked more like one used for utility vehicles. And yet, it was a decent car with an unusual cubist design.

Inside, the high-mounted seats led to a spacious cabin that could host five adult passengers. The dashboard was unusual, sporting a large speedometer on top, not in front of the steering wheel, placed next to a small panel that showed a few warning lights and the fuel level. Since Toyota created the small-sized MPV for teenagers, it added flat-folding rear seats that could convert the cabin into an ad-hoc lodge on wheels.

Under the hood, Toyota installed a choice of two engines paired either with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. Power went to the front wheels, and fuel efficiency was the most important factor. Speed and performance were not a top priority.