New 2010 Scion xB

As box-like wagon-SUV fusion gains popularity, it will hard to beat the efficient, affordable and revolutionary 2010 Scion xB.

Touted as the first ever ‘Urban Utility Vehicle’, the xB underwent an extensive redesign in 2010 making the exterior less ‘boxy’ and putting more horses under the hood. Under that hood is a 158-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). The xB is mated to a standard five-speed manual or an optional four-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift. When it comes to fuel economy, the 2010 Scion xB receives 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Even though the xB was the first boxy, SUV-like hatchback, vehicles like the Suzuki SX4 Crossover, Honda Element and Chevrolet HHR have proven to be worthy competition.

What the xB excels at is style — interior and exterior. With the tachometer displayed in the center of the dashboard, not behind the steering wheel, and the gear stick sitting elevated toward the dashboard, the interior is a completely different animal. Add a Pioneer CD player with iPod capability, Scion Sound Processing and a 6-speaker sound system and you have a sleek looking and operating dash. To ensure that you have enough cargo space, a 60/40 split folding rear seat gives you the flexibility you might need. As for the exterior, the 2010 Scion xB offers the choice of three wheel cover designs, side mounted turn signal indicators, chrome exhaust tip and new Crimson Mica paint.

The 2010 xB will continue to appeal to Scion enthusiasts and other consumers who are interested in modifying both inward and outward appearances. Scion has a plethora of factory-available parts to customize your vehicle including: under dash and cup holder illumination, rear spoiler, exhaust tip, shift knobs, performance shocks and a lowering kit. Additional features include an array of aluminum alloy wheels, navigation system and 7-inch LCD headrest monitors.

In terms of safety, the xB has a supplemental restraint system that uses sensors in the front airbags to detect a frontal collision. Add six airbags, antilock brakes, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) and you have a comprehensive safety system.

If you’re looking for something new, and appreciate diversity, affordability and efficiency, then the 2010 Scion xB is tough to pass up.