Pros: Excellent passenger and cargo room for the exterior size; good maneuverability; easy entry and exit
Cons: Antiquated 4-speed automatic transmission—most rivals have 5- or 6-speed automatics; middling fuel economy for the class; odd control layout puts style over ergonomics
2014 xB
CG Says: The 2014 Scion xB gets a standard touchscreen audio system, and the available premium audio system gets Aha-based smartphone integration and navigation functionality. The xB is the larger of Scion’s two youth-oriented 4-door hatchbacks, the smaller being the more-traditional xD. The xB is more radically styled than the xD, with a decidedly boxy design, and more powerful thanks to a larger 4-cylinder engine. The boxy body style makes xB a cross between a hatchback and a wagon and gives it the cargo utility of an SUV. Scion’s iconic “box” is practical and refined, but goes a little heavy on gas for its size and power. It’s not as quirky as the original model, but the shape makes it a practical, “hip” alternative to more-traditional small cars and crossovers.
2014 xB
