Scion xB Overview: Generations, Specs, and Which One to Buy
A factual guide to Scion xB generations from 2003 to 2015, covering engines from 108 to 160 hp, gearboxes, and the best versions to buy used.
The Scion xB is a compact van produced from 2003 to 2015 across three generational stages, with power outputs ranging from 108 to 160 hp. All versions are front-wheel drive with a choice of Automatic or Manual gearboxes. It suits buyers who want a boxy, practical compact van with simple mechanics, and this scion xb specs rundown covers each generation and the versions worth targeting.
Scion xB generations
1 generation (2003–2006)
The 1 generation Scion xB was sold from 2003 to 2006 as a compact van in 2 modifications, all rated at 108 hp and all front-wheel drive. Buyers could choose between Automatic and Manual gearboxes. The mass-market version was the 1.5 AT: a 1496 cc engine with 108 hp, an Automatic gearbox, and 0–100 acceleration in 12.5 seconds. This is the smallest engine ever fitted to the xB, and the entire generation sits at the bottom of the model's 108–160 hp span.
2 generation (2007–2010)
The 2 generation Scion xB ran from 2007 to 2010, again as a compact van with 2 modifications, Automatic and Manual gearboxes, and FWD only. Power jumped to 158 hp across the range — a gain of 50 hp over the first generation. The volume version was the 2.4 AT (2 generation): a 2362 cc engine producing 158 hp, paired with an Automatic gearbox and front-wheel drive.
2 generation, restyling (2010–2015)
The restyled 2 generation Scion xB was built from 2010 to 2015, keeping the compact van body, 2 modifications, FWD, and both gearbox options. Output rose slightly to 160 hp. Two versions stand out. The 2.4 AT (2 generation, restyling) carries the same 2362 cc engine at 160 hp with an Automatic gearbox and was the mass-market choice. The 2.4 MT (2 generation, restyling) offers the same 2362 cc and 160 hp with a Manual gearbox and posts fuel consumption of 9.8 l/100 km — the only version in the data with a published consumption figure.
Which Scion xB to buy
- 2.4 MT (2 generation, restyling): the most economical documented choice at 9.8 l/100 km, while still delivering the model's peak 160 hp.
- 2.4 AT (2 generation, restyling): the mass-market version of the newest years (2010–2015), with the full 160 hp from its 2362 cc engine.
- 2.4 AT (2 generation): the volume 2007–2010 version with 158 hp — nearly the restyled car's output in an older, typically cheaper body.
- 1.5 AT (1 generation): the mass-market 2003–2006 version with 108 hp and a 1496 cc engine; acceleration of 12.5 seconds to 100 km/h reflects its modest output.
On the used market, the newest examples date from 2015, so any Scion xB is now a mature purchase; the 2010–2015 restyled cars are the youngest and the most numerous years in the model's final form. The lineup's simplicity works in a buyer's favor: one body style, front-wheel drive only, and just 2 modifications per generation make comparing scion xb generations straightforward.
Which Scion xB to avoid
Within the second generation, the 2.4 AT (2 generation, 2007–2010) is dominated on paper by the 2.4 AT (2 generation, restyling, 2010–2015): the restyled version offers 160 hp against 158 hp from the same 2362 cc engine, in a newer car. Unless the pre-restyling price advantage is decisive, the 2010–2015 version is the stronger pick between the two.