2005 Scion xB Pros and Cons at TrueDelta: 2005 Scion xB - Thumbs up! by sbsingleton

Rear seat room & comfort

I have 3 kids, ages 15, 13, and 7, and they have all kinds of leg room in the back seat of this car. It's almost as much as a minivan. All 3 can ride comfortably in the back for up to an hour or so. Another 2 inches or so of width would make it ideal, even for longer trips.

Fuel economy

Fuel economy is surprisingly good for such a boxy car. I average well above 35 mpg in mixed driving.

Driving position & visibility

I have an old upper-back injury, and the upright seating position of the xB treats it well. Visibility is outstanding, especially for a car with chunky A-pillars, as most recent cars have. The high roof line and windows larger than gun slits make a huge difference.

Reliability & durability

With over 126k on the odometer, reliability has been quite good. Aside from maintenance items, a water pump at 114k has been the only repair.

Quietness

It's a little buzzy on the road. That's due in part to limited sound insulation, and in part to the fact the engine turns at 3500 RPMs at 70 mph in 5th gear.

Quietness

It's a little buzzy on the road. That's due in part to limited sound insulation and in part to the fact the engine turns at 3500 RPMs at 70 mph in 5th gear.