Car Reviews

Link: http://carreviewsonline.net/scion_xb_car_review.shtml

Analysts give the Scion xB mixed reviews, but owners sure love this car. Toyota (Scion's parent car company) released this vehicle in 2004, shocking audiences with its drastically boxy style and won over the younger segment with it's distinctive playfulness. But being hip isn't what it's all about. The Scion xB is quite practical.

It's spacious enough for four adults and a whole lot of cargo, and is and affordable option to its competitor, the Honda Element, beginning at $15,750. However, with the aerodynamics of a toaster, fuel efficiency isn't one of its high points (24 mpg average). Its 2.4-liter, 158-horsepower four-cylider engine enables the Scion xB to pick up quickly from full stops.

With all the funky interior design, special features and abundant add-on options, Scion's youthful target demographic should be pleased with the xB. It's not a bad little wagon.

Nissan is also throwing its hat into the small, boxy car ring with the new Nissan Cube, competing with Toyota Motors’ Scion and Honda’s Element. Thought it’s been available in Japan for years, we’ll see whether the U.S. market takes to this funky machine.

Its body is asymmetrical, which will probably throw OCD patients into a fit, but its interior is surprisingly spacious and aesthetically comfortable. It’s not a hybrid, and though the EPA hasn’t tested its fuel economy, it’s predicted the Cube will round out at about 30 MPG.

The standard 122-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine is paired with either an Xtronic continuously variable transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox. When it’s distributed in spring of 2009, we’ll see if this little Cube will pull out its corner of the market.