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Article Comments - 2008 Scion xB First Drive

50 messages,  Last post on Feb 13, 2008 at 11:55 PM

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What is this discussion about? Scion xB, Wagon

Article comments for First Drive: 2008 Scion xB - The 2008 Scion xB reminds you of what was accomplished by the first 2004 xB, a car so shocking that the entire Scion brand still revolves around it. (more)

Messages Page 4 of 6

#26 of 50 2008 xB!! by icey

Jun 25, 2007 (7:39 pm)

I did all the homework and drove over 20 vehicles and bought the 2008 xB. Love it so far. The xB is about the most room you can find with highest MPG without going hybrid. I'm 6'6" and the 2nd best is the 2007 or new 2008 Ford Escape. I went with the xB due to the following:
1) More comfort than the Escape and costs less too.
2) Decent MPG for a 3000 lb machine.
3) Liked the 2006 xB, Like the 2008 look more.
4) Decent engine with the 2.4 from the Camry.
5) Better ride, smoother power, quieter, better fit and finish, more standard equipment, more comfortable than the Jeep Compass, Caliber, Matrix/Vibe, Cruiser, HHR, CRV.
6) The real IPOD connection has the rest beat! Works just fine with the standard radio.
7) Decent extended warranty package for $850 that extends the factory from 36k to 75k. Others charge $1500 to $2000 for the same coverage.
7) Did I mention lots of head and shoulder room in the new xB for a 6'6", 250lb guy?
 
I really tried to go USA on this purchase, which replaced a Ford Windstar minivan, but in the end I opted for the xB. The next best for me were the Escape, Element, the Jeep Compass (really liked it and it's CVT trans) and the Kia Rondo. The Rondo was very nice and has an optional 3rd row of seats if that interests you. The Rondos 4cyl is more than adequate. I skipped on it for the shape of the xB and the dependability of the Camry engine. It's my first Scion/Toyota, so time will tell if it was the best choice.
 
FWIW, Our new vehicle will probably be the Escape Hybrid, which will replace our 2001 Escape. So far it's been a great car too and since it's a city car the hybrid will shine.
 
BTW, I also tried to go with a Prius. Unfortunately Toyota was too clueless to offer an adjustable height seat for the driver of the Prius, so my head was against the roof. What an oversight!! Gee, just put the seats from the xB or Camry into the Prius and sell a ton more to taller people!
 
The HHR and PT were unbelievably uncomfortable to drivers of my size. The looks of both actually create an unnecessarily cramped and dangerous interior for taller drivers.
 
I'm glad my search is over and at this point I'm averaging 27 mpg with about 60% highway driving. It's not the mid 30's that i wanted, but I did make an improvement and will trade up again in a couple of years as the MPG's continue to increase in the marketplace. I'll again try for a small hybrid next time but they will have to fit me a little better somehow.

#27 of 50 Re: 2008 xB!! [icey] by trucktricks

Jun 26, 2007 (8:44 am)

Replying to: icey (Jun 25, 2007 7:39 pm)
Your idea of "decent MPG" is sure not the same as mine. With only 158 HP, this vehicle should be getting way more than 28 Highway. My HHR can run circles around this thing with its 175 HP and get 30 MPG while doing it (it actually does better than than that). I was driving a Vibe before the HHR and although a good car, its Toyota engine was very very buzzy. The Chevy 2.4 is quieter and smoother and way more powerful.
 
Toyota is slipping badly in the engine department these days.

#28 of 50 2008 Scion XB by kero1

Jun 26, 2007 (3:53 pm)

Went and looked at the 08 scion XB a few weeks ago. The dealership only had one on the lot.
 
Inside the car was nice and room. Why they covered the back seats in fabric instead of plastic is odd. When I put the seats down to create a flat surface I can see things getting caught on the carpet on the back of the seats.
 
I thought it was nice and might trade my 06 LX for this. I want a little more utility since I like to camp but don't want a true SUV and such.
 
I would have to put some type of rims on this vehicle since the hub caps are pretty cheesy.
 
I also worry about the AC condenser getting ruined by small debris just like people who own Honda Elements. They have to put make shift gutter protectors in front of the condenser to keep it from getting punctured.

#29 of 50 Test Drive Impressions by bpraxis

Jun 26, 2007 (4:29 pm)

Hello everyone and I had an opportunity to test drive the 2008 Xb last night. I was very impressed with the handling, quietness, and power for a tall heavy car. The air conditioner was very strong and one of the best that I have experienced. The stereo upgrade did not impress me and I thought the sound quality was not that good. In addition the radio controls were confusing and not very ergonomic.
 
  As a 47 year old I felt that the Xb may be a bit too young and hip for me but I came away favorably impressed. This would not rule out me buying the car though. I am looking for a road trip car with plenty of cargo space. With almost 70 cubic feet the small Xb has great cargo capacity. The rear floor seemed delicate and may not hold the weight that I need.
 
  I am also considering the Honda CRV and the Element. The CRV is very attractively styling looking somewhat European to me. The Element would be a great car to travel in but the Element is now five years old and the chasis is based on the last CRV.
 
  The new MPG standards from our infinitely wise masters in Washington is more stringent for 2008. So the two wheel drive 2008 Element will be rated at 25 MPG on the highway and the 2008 CRV will match the Xb at 28 MPG on the highway.
 
  So my decision is between these three vehicles and does anyone have any comments or advice???

#30 of 50 Re: Test Drive Impressions [bpraxis] by kero1

Jun 26, 2007 (7:57 pm)

Replying to: bpraxis (Jun 26, 2007 4:29 pm)
The vehicles are different as in many ways alike.
 
The real issue is the element has been on the market for a while and most problems/glitches have been worked out for the most part. If you get an element, you will have to get $6 worth of gutter protector from Home Depot and make a condenser sheild to protect your A/C system. If you don't and the condenser gets punctured honda will not cover it warranty.
 
If you like elements, join EOC (http://www.elementownersclub.com/) for more info on what to expect from the element.
 
The XB is a redesign so expect first year glitches just like I had on my 06 honda civic LX sedan. It's always best to avoid first year redesigns if you can. I did not have a choice really.
 
I like both and have sat in both and did test drive the element about 6 months ago. Element looks and feels bigger and the seats fold up against the sides of the vehicle, which makes for great cargo space. The doors open suicide style with no support in between for a large loading area, etc.
 
Either for me would do fine and either for you would most likely be a good choice. The element is more expensive and if you go for an EX prepare to spend 20K to 21K, etc.

#31 of 50 Re: Test Drive Impressions [kero1] by bpraxis

Jun 27, 2007 (8:21 am)

Replying to: kero1 (Jun 26, 2007 7:57 pm)
Happy Wednesday Kero and I hope that you are feeling healthy, happy, and having a very nice day. Thankyou for the great feedback and insight.
                                         2008 standards
  Scion XB would cost me: $17,300.00 Highway MPG: 28
 
  Element LX would cost: $18,800.00 : 25
 
  Honda CRV would cost: $20,600.00 : 28
 
  The issue that you mentioned regarding the air conditioner is somewhat disturbing. I wonder why Honda has not addressed the issue?
 
  With appreciation and kind regards,
 
  Brandon,

#32 of 50 Re: Test Drive Impressions [bpraxis] by kero1

Jun 27, 2007 (9:44 am)

Replying to: bpraxis (Jun 27, 2007 8:21 am)
Brandon,
 
Alot of people don't by the LX element as it's missing some features most people want. I don't recall what they were but on EOC forum, many people advised buying the EX for a little more money.
 
When I went and looked at the XB the A/C condensor was also in a spot that could be easily damaged. Got take another peak at the car again and you will see what I mean. It was the first thing I checked when looking at the XB since I knew the element has that problem. Other 06 civic owners have had their condensors damaged and honda did not replace them, even with only a few thousand miles on the cars.
 
I think both are nice and I would take either for myself. The element seems bigger and more roomier inside when I saw them both.
 
It's now really up to your preferences as to which you like better and has the right utility for your needs.

#33 of 50 element by girlbuffalo1

Jun 28, 2007 (8:15 am)

I test drove the Element before I got the XB and I really did like it. The problem here in Indiana is there are absolutely no 07 EX's for sale. The 'cheapest' LX they had here on the lot was $22,000 and that was just out of my price range. I wanted the EX---yay manual seats and manual windows--these are things I WANTED as on my Suzuki Vitara they were the first things to break and were EXPENSIVE to fix.
 
What I liked most about the Element was the ability to fold the seats to the side and also fold them into a double bed--as well as the ruggedness of the interior. Had the XB and Honda been equally priced I may have went for the Honda--however I am very happy with my XB--

#34 of 50 Re: element [girlbuffalo1] by bearcrkrd

Jun 28, 2007 (2:50 pm)

Replying to: girlbuffalo1 (Jun 28, 2007 8:15 am)
I've noticed the comparo's between Element and XB. I am just giving my opinion, as I've only sat in them, not driven either. The Element is a step up the ladder isn't it? The new 2.4 in the XB kinda equals the powertrain, but I don't think an Element All Wheel (4 Wheel?) Drive EX is a fair comparison to the XB. I'd like to say it's more vehicle, for sure it is different. I would think twice about driving even a dirt driveway in an XB. That is not a knock on it. That's how I take care of my Sienna, took care of the Camry I had, etc, etc. This is not meant to correct or whatever. Features, comfort, etc, those are fair comparisons, and enjoyable to read. I was just exercising and an Element drove by when I was walking the treadmill (nice view from our workout room!), so it was fresh on my mind.

#35 of 50 Thankyou for the great comments...... by bpraxis

Jun 28, 2007 (4:25 pm)

Hello Kero and everyone and I hope that you are having a nice day.
 
  I very much like the Soviet Milk Truck look of the Element and it adventure persona. The hesitation that I have with the Element is the body style is now entering its sixth year for 2008 using the old CRV chasis.
 
  As I mentioned befoe the Scion Xb is very quiet for its class, handled well and is peppy.
 
  The new Car And Driver for August had a very negative review for the Xb. They were critical of its increased size, more conservative styling, and decreased gas milage among other things.
 
  I am also noticing a lack of buzz for the new Xb on the internet. The early adoptors seem to be absent and the prior fans dont seem to like the new Xb.
 
  This does not bother me at all, and I happen to feel the Element and Xb have very fun personalities. The new CRV is very attractive and is now the best selling sport utility in the US moving about 16,000 units per month. The resale of the CRV will be much better than the other two in my opinion. But I was so bored driving it.
 
  Yes my heart will probably move me to the Element or Xb and I will keep you posted.
 
  Thankyou again for your great insights.

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