NEW FOR 2015:
- Standard reverse camera
- New special edition model: 686 Parklan Edition
It’s time to say good-bye to the Scion xB, the original modernist foursquare vehicle that gave rise to the likes of the Nissan Cube and Kia Soul. Before it shuffles off this mortal coil, Scion has given it a standard reverse camera, and the customary special edition model. This year, the usual Release Series has been shelved in favour of a customized creation by snowboard apparel firm, 686. Rad, man.
Really, it was only a matter of time before the xB was discontinued – it’s riding on the previous generation Corolla’s platform. It will be succeeded by a conventional hatchback also based on the Corolla platform, albeit the European-market version of the Corolla. The xB is powered by a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine sourced from the midsize Camry sedan with transmission choices of a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.
As with all Scion models, the xB comes in “monospec”, meaning that other than colour and transmission choice, all equipment is standard. Included are 16-inch steel wheels, LED daytime running lights, air conditioning, cloth sport bucket seats, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, cruise control, digital clock, vanity mirrors, outside temperature gauge, power locks with keyless entry, power windows with driver’s auto-down, 12-volt power outlet, tilt and telescopic steering wheel with audio controls, chrome exhaust tip, projector-style headlamps, heated mirrors with integrated turn signals, variable intermittent wipers, rear washer/wiper, Pioneer display audio CD/MP3 stereo with six speakers, auxiliary input, USB port, Bluetooth connectivity, active front head restraints, and tire pressure monitoring system.
The xB 686 Parklan Edition adds Cocoa Bean Metallic (brown) paint, 16-inch black alloy wheels, gloss black mirror caps, door handles, and license plate garnish, black exterior badges, red bumper and mirror accents, quilted dark grey upholstery with 686 camo accents, all-weather floor mats, black cargo mats, zippered seatback pockets, and a driver’s side seat zippered storage pocket. No snowboard rack or heated seats to keep you warm on the way back from shreddin’ the gnar, though.
Available factory- or dealer-installed accessories include 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels, hood deflector, rear spoiler, all-season floor mats, cargo liner, mat, cover and net, heated leather seats, Alpine premium audio, navigation, XM satellite radio, block heater, and security system.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
