2008 Scion xB and xD first drive

The 2008 Scion xB is a foot longer and has a smoother body.

(Credit: CNET Networks)

Thursday morning was a good day for CNET Car Tech editors--we got to drive the 2008 Scion xB and 2008 Scion xD. Even since Scion was born (some say fully-formed, bursting out of Toyota's head), the xB has been a polarizing car: some hate it, some love it. Whatever your opinion, you have to admit that the car is unique. But the xB has been around for three years, and Scion needs to keep it fresh. The new xB has a smoother body and more powerful engine. It's also about a foot longer, with plenty of rear seat space.

The xD replaces the xA, and isn't nearly as interesting. But, like the xB, it comes with standard iPod integration plus an auxiliary audio input. And this is really good iPod integration, letting you select songs from the iPod through the stereo interface. One side to the story that Scion doesn't particularly emphasize is that these cars represent excellent value. They are built well and come with road-holding gear such as traction control and electronic brakeforce distribution, all for well under $20,000.

Click here for a photo gallery of our drives in the 2008 Scion xB and xD.

[rusty182004]

Dumbed down for typical american appetite

This thing looks like a chevy venture van, makes me want to go out and buy a current generation xb before they're gone. I bet they'll become a somewhat hot commodity on the used market since the new ones will blend into the sea of minivans, PT cruisers, HHRs etc.

[scionblogger43]

Scion Parts

I was browsing the Internet for Scion (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scion_%28car%29)parts over the last week because I was in need of scion xb parts. When I found this Scion parts website, http://www.sciongeneration.com I found that and then some. They?ve got scion xd exhaust?s, and even antenna for those unfortunate enough to have broken theirs. I was really digging their prices and assortment of accessories and I think other Scion owners will to if they take a look at the site.

[cartaker]

2008 Scion xB and xD first drive

I realize that Scion is trying to be "hip" and all...but their naming is ridiculous. TC, XB, XD???? To quote Jerry Seinfeld "What's up with that?"

Now Pontiac is using G6 and G8. Arrggggh!!! For example.... lexus auto parts and the 'IS' parts...haven't they noticed that I-S spells 'is'. That is just a silly name!

I wish the manufacturers would use real names on cars again. Everyone wants to be like the Germans.