2004 Scion xB
As an upstart automotive model aimed squarely at younger consumers, Scion was filled with promise. Toyota launched the Scion nameplate in 2003, in an try to have interaction vehicle prospects earlier in life and produce a little bit spark into the considerably stodgy environs of the standard American Toyota dealership. The primary Scion autos began exhibiting up in choose California Toyota dealerships in summer time 2003, and the model expanded nationwide in early 2004.
Toyota promised that younger consumers would discover a lot to like about Scion. A lot of the purchasing/shopping for course of could possibly be dealt with on-line, and the vehicles themselves could be enjoyable, reasonably priced, and simply customizable. Toyota additionally promised that Scion fashions would by no means last more than a single era, every being changed by all-new autos–this to maintain the model ever recent and attention-grabbing to younger automotive consumers.
The center of Scion, at the least initially, was the undeniably charming xB, a tall-bodied subcompact 4-door hatchback wagon. Offered in Japan because the Toyota bB, the xB was not like something then on American roads. Easy, boxy, and begging for personalization, the xB was additionally extremely reasonably priced. Costs began at lower than $14,000, and manufacturing unit choices have been moderately priced as properly.
Scion offered greater than 47,000 xBs within the U.S. in 2004, the automotive’s first full mannequin 12 months, and gross sales reached 61,000 in 2006, the mannequin’s single greatest 12 months.
So, why did xB gross sales fall after 2006? Extra importantly, what occurred to Scion? There are many causes for the model’s demise, however listed here are a number of key factors:
- Although younger prospects may theoretically store and full a number of the buy course of on-line, they’d nonetheless want to go to a dealership to check drive a automobile, or to finish paperwork. As soon as on the retailer, would-be Scion consumers have been topic to the identical gross sales techniques as any Toyota buyer, which at some shops could possibly be off-putting.
- Many sellers lacked actual dedication to the Scion undertaking, typically failing to inventory marketed equipment, and at occasions trying to upsell consumers into more-profitable Toyota fashions.
- The promised new fashions that might preserve the Scion model recent didn’t make the identical splash as the unique xB. The primary-gen xB was changed in 2008 by a redesigned bigger model, however the brand new mannequin lacked a lot of the allure of the unique.
- A superb rear-drive small sports activities automotive, the FR-S arrived for the 2013 mannequin 12 months. Although properly regarded by the media and prospects alike, the automotive’s $25,000 beginning worth was excessive for a Scion on the time.
- Lastly, younger consumers simply aren’t that loopy about vehicles anymore. A youth-oriented auto model most likely doesn’t make sense within the twenty first century—although automotive historical past is a little bit in need of profitable automotive manufacturers aimed solely at younger consumers. Geo was arguably such a model, and it solely survived 14 years.
Scion gross sales peaked in 2006, reaching 173,000 items, although the model itself lasted via the 2016 mannequin 12 months. When Toyota pulled the plug on Scion, the model’s surviving fashions have been rebadged as Toyotas. As for the xB, credit score have to be given to the mannequin for its position in popularizing the rolling-cube phenomenon. Following the xB have been such small-box autos because the Nissan Dice, and the still-popular Kia Soul. The Jeep Renegade, too, arguably falls into this class.
What follows is Client Information’s unique assessment of the Scion xB, full with the forward-looking “Information” part on the finish of the report.
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2004 Scion xB Evaluation
Overview
This boxy wagon went on sale in California in 2003 as considered one of two fashions introducing Toyota’s youth-oriented Scion model. Scions are offered via Toyota sellers and will likely be accessible nationwide throughout 2004. Added in summer time 2004 was the tC coupe. Just like the more-conventional Scion xA hatchback, the xB is a front-wheel-drive 5-passenger subcompact. Nonetheless, it has an extended wheelbase than the xA, and a taller van-like wagon physique with a one-piece rear liftgate. It borrows its 1.5-liter 4-cyl engine, handbook and non-obligatory computerized transmissions, and different underskin parts from Toyota’s small Echo sedans. Normal gear consists of ABS, antiskid/traction management, air-con, CD stereo, energy home windows/locks/mirrors, and cut up folding rear seat. Entrance aspect airbags and head-protecting curtain aspect airbags comprise the only factory-option package deal. Sellers provide a variety of factory-approved dress-up equipment, plus useful objects together with bigger alloy wheels to interchange the usual 15-inch metal wheels.
Scion’s Useless. Right here’s Which Fashions Stay on as Toyotas (Full Model Gallery)
2004 Scion xB engine specs
Acceleration
Check xB with handbook transmission did 9.8 sec 0-60 mph. Guide transmission has clean shift motion. No alternative but to check automatic-transmission mannequin, however count on about 10.6 sec 0-60.
Gasoline Financial system
Check xB averaged 24.6 mpg in metropolis/freeway driving that included gas-eating efficiency runs. Toyota recommends regular-grade gasoline.
Dealing with
Steady really feel, average physique lean in tight, quick corners. Normal antiskid/traction system a plus, however small, skinny tires have restricted grip, squeal early in turns. Fast steering, compact flip circle assist parking. Normal ABS provides competent routine braking, however our 60-0-mph panic-stop check confirmed pretty lengthy distances.
Experience Consolation
Jiggly however not uncomfortable on quick freeways, although check automotive did a gentle buck-and-bounce on some sharp bumps and large humps. Experience arduous and thumpy with dealer-available upsized wheels and/or firmer suspension parts.
Quietness
Not irksome at full throttle, however solely common by our sound meter in top-gear 60-mph cruising, with about equal components engine hum and tire drone. Wind rush modest for such a bluff field of a physique.
Controls
Giant, spherical dashtop gauge cluster is barely proper of driver however straightforward to learn. Warning lights grouped to its proper a bit small and distant. Useful audio unit to proper of steering wheel suffers from all-button controls, some fairly small. Beneath it are easy local weather controls. Meeting, cabin supplies in keeping with modest pricing, however material upholstery surprisingly stylish.
Forgotten Idea: Scion Hako Coupe
2004 Scion xB specs
Consolation
FRONT: Driver sits greater than in most small vehicles and enjoys wonderful visibility, however taller ones might really feel they’re in a minivan as a result of modest seat journey and restricted steering-wheel tilt. Nonetheless, there’s adult-size leg room, plus close to top-hat head clearance from tall physique. Seats agency, well-shaped, however cushions a bit quick for greatest leg help.
REAR: Head room beneficiant right here too, as is leg house even with entrance seats pushed far again. However rear bench too slim for 3 adults, and cushion and backrests are quick. No-strain entry/exit regardless of slim flooring passages.
Cargo Room
Usefully cubic cargo bay, however flooring simply 21 inches lengthy behind rear seat, 52 inches with seatbacks folded. Optionally available dealer-installed audio package deal bolts a space-robbing subwoofer to rear cargo subfloor. Cargo flooring lifts for entry to spare tire and an extra storage cubby. Again seat has no bins for small objects, however entrance presents assorted slots and pockets, plus three cupholders.
The Fall of the Home of Scion
2004 Scion xB costs
Worth
The xB melds hip-hop type with minivan practicality in a stable, nice little wagon bolstered by Toyota’s popularity for reliability and excessive resale values. It’s additionally priced proper at underneath $13,700 to begin, however watch out with the choices or you could possibly find yourself at over $18,000 like our check mannequin. Curiously, the boxlike xB is outselling the more-conventional Scion xA sedan by greater than 2-1.
Information
Scion started promoting within the East Coast, Southeast and Gulf states in March. It provides the remainder of the nation in June, together with a 3rd mannequin, the sporty tC midsize coupe. This blends a European Toyota platform with distinctive 2-dr styling and a 160-hp 2.4-liter 4-cyl engine. Scion says the “properly underneath $20,000” worth will embody air-con, cruise management, sunroof, and energy home windows/locks/mirrors. As for the xB, Toyota is alleged to be debating whether or not to revamp it or exchange it with one thing fully totally different. The latter plan suits Scion’s purpose of being the latest and coolest with what a Toyota exec calls “quick-hit, fast-turnaround merchandise.” But it surely’s additionally a spendthrift method that would tax even Toyota’s deep pockets, and a few analysts suppose here-today gone-tomorrow fashions may confuse and even flip off some consumers. No matter Toyota decides, you gained’t see it in showrooms earlier than model-year 2007. Till then, count on Toyota to maintain the xB on younger America’s thoughts with limited-edition trim-and-equipment choices. The primary of those debuted in March because the “Collection 1.0,” a $1000 package deal providing brilliant orange paint, roof spoiler, and particular inside trim and lighting. Solely 2100 will likely be accessible.
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2004 Scion xB Gallery
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Forgotten Idea: Scion Hako Coupe
