2004 Scion xB Published 07/01/2004

Every generation has rebelled setting fashion styles and trends that shock the previous generation. In the sixties long hair, bell-bottoms and flower power was a fashion statement of the independent young. When the older generation in a quest for eternal youth starts to adopt these styles the novelty and thus the reason for the fashion shift becomes diluted.

I wonder if the same will happen with Toyota's new line of Scions. The 2004 Scion xB is a shocker. It rebels from established traditions and automotive trends and shocks older adults. As a canvas for the creative and individual owner it is aimed squarely at the technology rich and time poor Generation Y. In addition to defining demographic profiles such as age and income for potential customers, Scion predicted psycographic profiles such as intelligence, image conscious, innovative, and influential traits. Yet I predict the Scion will not remain the exclusive domain of the "tuner" crowd. It is simply too practical for older adults to ignore. Will soccer moms and middle age dads driving this fashion statement damage the image of the Scion? Only time will tell.

For now Scion is creating a culture, lifestyle and community to be set apart from the automobile business of their parents. The experience of Scion is wired, relying on the web and technology to order and accessorize the vehicle even before it is delivered to the dealer.

Recently I had the experience of driving a Silver 2004 Scion xB customized with lime green graphics and performance wheels for an entire week. Let's be honest here. At first, I thought this was the ugliest car on the planet. It is the exact opposite of my tight fitting aerodynamic powerful dream sports car. This is a box with a small engine.

After a week however, I can tell you I have never had more fun with a car. I often park my test vehicle near the patio of an outdoor diner. Many of the cars I drive never get a second glance from other patrons. The Scion xB always stirred an emotion. Some people hate the look some love it, but nobody is neutral. Often the conversation would start out with a repulsive negative reaction and as I shared the features, benefits and price it ended with "I've gotta have this car."

Up until I actually drove the car I maintained my initial negative reaction but just a few miles down the highway a smile was forming. In spite of a lack of aerodynamic appearance the Scion xB is solid as a rock on the highway. Even though I expected the slab sides to be tossed around like a panel van by 18-wheelers, the low profile combined with front and rear stabilizer bars gave a secure feel at any speed. Weighing in less than 2,500 pounds the 1.5 Liter 4 cylinder engine pumping out 108 horsepower was more than adequate. An EPA rating of 35 miles to the gallon on the highway and 31 in the city for the manual version is a welcome relief.

The 2004 Scion contains an impressive list of standard features for a no hassle delivered price of $14,195. I enjoyed the manual transmission, but for $800 an automatic is available. Standard anti lock brakes, vehicle stability control and traction control are unexpected safety features for this class of vehicle. Air conditioning, power windows, power locks with remote, tilt wheel and AM/FM/CD are all included in the base price. Only cruise control is noticeably absent from this list.

No automaker has embraced personalization and customization accessories like Scion. Available from the dealer before delivery is a wide array of exterior appliqués, graphics, logos and wheels. A vast catalogue of interior accessories including LED lighting and sound upgrades can be included in the initial financing and covered by Scion warranty. No two Scions need to be alike.

The space and practicality of the Scion is undeniably one of its best features. Massive room is available for passengers, camping gear, or even extra audio equipment. For all the interior room the scion is easy to handle and park with excellent visibility and maneuverability. The interior is well insulated and very attractive.

Backed by Toyota reputation and reliability 2004 Scion xB has been an instant success. Now here comes the question. With such practicality, reliability, and value, Scion runs the risk of an older generation adopting this for their own. I can see the Scion xB being used by soccer moms replacing unsafe gas guzzling impractical SUV's or by small companies as a fleet vehicle. Will universal acceptance tarnish this as a fashion statement for the Y generation? Or maybe this is a fashion statement that actually bridges the generational gap. Either way you won't find a better value in a fun yet practical vehicle.

2004 Scion xB

$13,680 Base MSRP
$515.00 Destination
$14,195 Delivered.

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