The xB is the largest of the 2 Scion models. But it is still one of the smallest car in the US. Just like the xA, it is based on the Toyota Echo, and uses the same engine.

And just like the xA, the interior surprises with its high quality materials. It competes with the Honda Element. But it is miles ahead in terms of interior quality. You'll find none of the cheap plastics from the small Honda. And the Honda is actually not that small. The Scion IS very small, but surprisingly large inside!

Once you get in, you are sitting pretty high, almost like in an SUV. And everything seems pretty far, even the rear view mirror. But it doesn't feel weird and detached like the Element.

There it is: the huge rear seat space. Not as much as in the Element, but again, this is a true small car. The Honda Element is only small in pictures.

The seat is comfortable, and the interior is very well finished. But like the xA, it can only be ordered in black cloth. No other color, or leather. And no sunroof !!!

Once again, this is a car you will have to drive pretty slow to enjoy. The small 1.5 Liter engine only has 105 hp. That's 10 less than a Mini Cooper or a New Beetle.

But it is refined and pretty quiet. And the automatic is very smooth. If you push it, it just makes more noise, but it doesn't really go any faster. At least, for some reason, it doesn't feel slower than the smaller xA, which has the same engine...

And the heavier Element doesn't feel quicker either. I guess, any of these cool cars are slow. So just relax and enjoy the ride...

At least it feels very solid, and the standard stereo sounds great. The ride is pretty firm, but it's not as bad as a Mini Cooper. And it has the room of 2 or 3 Minis put together.

One of the best aspect is the low price. There isn't much competition at under $16 000. Especially not with that much room. The only other cars available at that price are small Korean cars with a boring style. Or low end outdated domestics. All of the other cool cars are more expensive (Mini, Bug, Cruiser ).

Let's hope they can offer a sunroof and more interior colors soon. I can't wait for the larger xC, a coupe/wagon with 17inch wheels and the 2.4Liter Camry engine, for under $17 000. That should be great.

So far, the only competition for the xB would be the ,better looking, Nissan Cube.

If you want to know more about the Scion xB, why don't you go HERE.