2008 Scion xB
Don't call it a Toyota bB anymore. With styling evolved from the CALTY-designed Scion t2B concept, the new xB is specifically tailored for the U.S. While the original xB was a version of the Japanese market Toyota bB, Scion bypassed the option to pick up the new bB – which was released in Japan last year – to follow in the footsteps of the tC coupe, also a U.S.-only product. As speculated in forums, the new xB gets a new 2.4L powerplant (from the tC) with a reported 158 hp and 166 ft-lbs of torque. Compare that to the 103 hp (108 under old SAE testing specs) that the OG xB pulls with and the reasoning for a U.S.-specific xB becomes clearer.
The styling of the new xB also seeks to appeal to new audiences while keeping close to the original box theme. Most notably, the new xB features a high-beltline, a relatively dynamic profile, and a strong C pillar. Features like the semi-recessed headlight fixtures (HID projector units), the C pillar, the implied pinch of the lower body, and the visor-like wrap around glass area were all previewed on the t2B, which was designed by a CALTY team led by Alex Shen. While not as straight edged as the current car, the new xB keeps a longer, but still short front deck, tall wagon profile and features a dual slot front grille that is unmistakably xB in heritage. Attendees to the Miami event reported that the single pod center gauge cluster is now gone, replaced by a more conventional layout, and the floor mounted shifter has moved up to the dash a la the Honda CR-V and the debut confirms this. The information cluster is still centered but in four-circle pod which is in turn enclosed in a driver-centric binnacle.
2008 Scion xD
The all-new xD also represents a maturing Scion – not only in its next-letter-in-the-alphabet nomenclature, but in the image tweak of its roll in the Scion lineup. While the youthful image of Scion has been solidly cast, the xA has been well behind its xB and tC siblings in sales. So, the xA, which was a mechanical twin of the xB, has been voted off the island so to speak. The new xD is a replacement only in the sense that it is a five-door hatchback taking the xA's place in the lineup. Mechanically and stylistically, the xD brings an edginess that was perceived to be lacking in the xA – especially when compared to its unorthodox xB brother.
According to the CD report, the new xD now moves to a slightly larger Yaris platform. That means it also gains a boost from a bigger 1.8 liter VVTi mill that pumps out 128 hp. Most notably from the exterior, the xD has been drawn with a ship-like prow similar to that of the Toyota Urban Cruiser Concept from Geneva 2006. Also interesting is the sharing of the strong C pillar and dual slot front grill with the xB – togther with the dual slot grill on the tC, they represent familial styling elements from a brand that originally shunned them. Expected features include standard 16 inch wheels, stability control, and an upgraded interior.
02-08-2007, 12:14 PM
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