The 2008 xB is a five-door economy wagon from Scion. Like other Scion models, the xB targets the young, those in the 18 to 35 age group. The Scion xB is built basically on a subcompact car platform, but its body resembles a miniature delivery truck. The 2008 Scion xB is designed to produce more torque than the 2007 models. The suspension and electric rack-and-pinion power steering are tuned to deliver quick and crisp handling.

A 2.4-liter, 16-valve, in-line four-cylinder engine utilizes variable valve timing with intelligence technology. This light and compact power plant produces 158 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, and 162 pound-feet of torque. A manual five-speed transmission is standard in every 2008 Scion xB, which gives it respectable point-and-shoot capability on the road. A four-speed automatic transmission is also available as an option. The xB maintains fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for both manual and transmissions.

The 2008 Scion xB features bigger and softer looking exteriors. It has been reshaped and the sheet metal stretched, keeping the essence of the box unchanged. Some curves have been added to the squared-off exteriors of earlier models to make them look more elegant. The xB has well-equipped and spacious interiors with a lot of headroom, legroom and storage space. Greater track and width, relatively modest height combined with new improved exterior styling makes it very attractive on the road. The xB is three inches wider and one foot longer. It rides on a wheelbase that is four inches longer.

The 2008 Scion xB comes with an exceptionally good package of standard safety and accident avoidance features. They include driver and passenger front air bags, three-across rear head restraints, side and curtain side air bags and a direct tire-pressure monitoring system. A supplemental restraint system uses sensors in the front air bags to detect a frontal collision. Anti-lock brakes with brake assist for panic stops, traction control and stability control are some of the accident avoidance features.