xB1 owners, do you love your xB less since the release of xB2? Or.. Do you love it more? I'm not asking which one you think is better.. I dont' want to start a debate between 1st and 2nd Gen owners. What I want to know is this...



1. Any regrets not waiting for the new one?
2. Did you change your mind about the xB2 since you've seen actual photos?
3. If given the chance to choose one feature from the new one to apply to the 1st Gen what would it be. and vice versa...
4. 1st Gen owners do you feel inferior to the lil' monster engine that the xB2 have?
5. Would you trade your xB if you are given the chance?

Again I don't want to start a debate which one is better, I just want to see how people feel about the new xB's. No bashing please. We all could appreciate the uniqueness of both vehicles.

As for myself, I'm going to be honest and say i didn't like the design of the new xB but the more and more I see pictures of it, I kinda like it. It's different, Just like the 1st Gen. The difference is that the 2nd Gen have to be accepted not only by Non-xB owners but 1st Gen owners as well.

http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r217/toyotaisme/2008%20xb/DSC00424.jpg

Photo courtesy of scionlife member "toyotaisme" found in xB2 forum.
______________________________________________________________________

xB2 Rear Reverse Light H.I.D. Kit is now available. To blind those who dare make fun of the the one eyed monster..... :rofl:

1. no
2. not really. i do like the interior though of the new one. hate the exterior styling though.
3. the digital tach
4. i have a bike for speed, the box is the family ride :-) wouldnt have bought it if i wanted to go fast in the car.
5. no way. still worth $1500 more KBB for trade-in than what i paid 1 year used 10k miles from a chevy dealer.

The PW 1st gen has always been my favorite of the XBs and thats what i got so im very happy with my decision :love:

1. Nope
2. Yes, sort of. It's not as ugly as the stock photos make it appear. The photos people on these boards are much better (ironically enough). I still think it looks TOO MUCH like a Chevy HHR or a Honda Element - it has lost its distinctive style.
3. Bigger trunk. It looks like they made the back seat space smaller and gave the space to the trunk... one of the biggest things I liked about the xB is the rear seat space. It's comfortable for long trips.
4. I want more power, but just a little. The trade off is the gas mileage... I'm getting close to 28-30 in regular city driving, so I'm happy.
5. For an xB2? No. Maybe a 2003 Matrix if the price were right (I did try, failed).

I just picked up a 2006.5 new from a dealer not too long ago...I absolutely love it!

1. No, the new one is $1700 more on MSRP, not to mention any extras on taxes, that bumped it out of my price range
2. I like the 5 axis one, but to recreate that car you'd be in atleast 20k, I believe that bumps it into a whole nother realm of vehicle competition.
3. Size, I like the compact nature of the xB1, it was one of my attractions, I'm a weight freak ;)
4. I would hardly call a 2.4L 160hp engine a monster, especially in a 3000lb vehicle, I like getting my 36mpg, I think the xB2 was rated EPA at 22/28, which is not what I would be looking for in a commuter/daily driver. I have a sports car, I bought the box for what I stated above, size, fuel efficiency and above all, price.
5. No, but on that note, Scion needs to make a RWD vehicle, then I might consider a trade.

1. No, I bought my in August 2003, so I would not have wanted to wait almost 4 years.
2. Yes, the photo look better than the drawings.
3. The new xB grill is very nice. And I like the large reverse light on the bumper cover, it is similar to the new VW Bug back up like. I think that is pretty cool.
4. No, my car rocks.
5. No way, I am going to drive that car forever.

The best feature of my xB is that it is almost paid for. That is going to be hard for any new car to overcome. No more payments will be the best feature ever.

To me, the xB2 is simply a different car, designed to meet different needs. It's not better or worse. If I were shopping for a city car today, I would look at something like the Fit, or possibly the xD when it arrives; the xB2 has too big an engine and gets too poor fuel economy in city driving to even be on my list.

On the other hand, now that we're done shuttling kids around, we might well look at the xB2 or something else in its class to replace our minivan. The xB2 looks like it would be terrific for two people and their stuff on longer trips, and the highway mileage should be acceptable.

What we see here is the power of labeling. They call it "xB" so even we, who KNOW they are two different cars with nothing in common, can't resist endlessly comparing them.

R

make no mistake, xb2 is ugly stock but w/ a kit it is goona be killer. Im a bit jealous of the 2nd dome light, nav option, computer features, and power, but our styling is better. i also had no idea the fuel economy was so terrible. i really dont even know why its still being called an xb, its a whole diff car. totally american-ized

Simply put, I love my xB MORE now that I've experienced the new one.
I don't regret waiting, I wouldn't consider selling mine.
I was SO DISGUSTED with the larger engine & lower mpg and Element-esque styling.

1) no, its out of my price range and besides, this box is sexy!

2) a little, first i was "wtf were they thinking" then "well i guess its ok" and now im " ill have to see it in person". once ive seen it then ill make up my mind, but it is still not as great as ours.

3) i agree; that digal speedo is pretty cool, but id say cruise control. dont have it, wish i did. actually... i like my box the way it is! if i want it, ill mod it! i think the new xB lost some orignality. and lose that ugly auto shifter!

4) inferior? superior is more correct! i get like 27 mpg street, and thats gunning it sometimes too. with the new engine, id be at 24 or less! i cant do that! too poor to spend ANY MORE MONEY ON GDM GAS!

5) nah. its cool, its unique ish, but its not for me. but then again that was part of scions plan; to capture a new market and get those people who ALMOST got an xB.

First off mad props for constructing this topic very well! :bow:

1. Non whatsoever because the xB2 was non existent 3 years ago.
2. Nope, the actual pics made it more concrete that I had zero interest in the new one.
3. Prolly just the drive train. It'd be neat to see how fast the 1st gen would be with that power level. Only problem is mpgs might suffer too.
4. Not at all considering I won't be racing them. Monster is a stretch tho. :eyebrow:
5. Never! It ain't going anywhere in the next 20 years plus.

The new xB is unique if you could call it that. I hope the folks that get them can find their way to loving them the same way we love the 1st gens.

It's all about choosing what you love and loving what you chose. I may warm up to them after I see one in person. :tap:

1. None whatsoever.
2. No, I still don't care for it. The xB1's got that JDM thing going for it; the xB2 feels too American to me.
3. From the xB2—>xB1, I'd like the side airbags. From the xB1—>xB2, the fuel efficiency.
4. I'm getting 32mpg. How can I feel inferior?
5. Nuh-uh. Nada chance.

1. No regrets
2. I am starting to warm up to it a bit...need to see one in person.
3. not much I would need from xB2, but xB2 needs better gas mileage...especially when gas is going for $3.19 right now.
4.No Way!! xB2 might be a bit quicker, but I'm still the original here...
5.I've already been given the chance...nope...at least not til I get bored modding and want to start over :)

Nicely framed questions, Kristoffer. :D

1. Any regrets not waiting for the new one?
No, I needed to change vehicles when I did, and I wanted the US version of the bB as soon as I saw a glimpse of it in the first TV commercial.
2. Did you change your mind about the xB2 since you've seen actual photos?
No. I got to see the xB2 in December,and I liked the look of it, liked the styling, and like some of the features a whole lot. I didn't like the increase in size, the loss of "boxiness," the loss in visibility, and the "cheap looking" silver painted, overly complex, plastic dash. I recently drove one of the xB2s, and that confirmed my feel of it. It had nice power, good brakes, decent handling, excellent noise levels, good comfort, but also had massive blindspots, very high beltline, distracting dash, and to little road feel in the steering.
3. If given the chance to choose one feature from the new one to apply to the 1st Gen what would it be. and vice versa...
xB2 > xB I would choose first the side air bags, second, the cruise control. xB > xB2 I would chose the size and boxiness
4. 1st Gen owners do you feel inferior to the lil' monster engine that the xB2 have?
No, not really. My MGs had considerably less power, as did my early Hondas and Volvos. Heck, even my one and only Porsche only had 60 HP. I've had incredibly overpowered cars and underpowered cars. With the anemic cars one learns to drive better because one has to plan ahead for such simple things as freeway merging, passing, and long hills. I enjoy the challenge, and find that my box has quite adequate power for my needs.
5. Would you trade your xB if you are given the chance?
So long as my box is in good shape, I prefer it to the new xB2. If it comes to having to replace my box, I would have to look carefully at the options the market offers, and if nothing better showed up, I'd probably make do with an xB2, partly to stay within the Scion quality and community. In reality, I'd likely move to the xD rather than the xB2: It is slightly closer to replacing the xB, though not totally.

Bottom line is that I'm not after a longer, lower, wider, more powerful vehicle. I bought my xB specifically because it was not longer, lower, wider and more powerful.

http://tijil.org/xBsig.gif

Excellent points Tomas. I'm with you on just about every point. I like the MPG--especially right now. I think I would choose the map lights on the new xB as my feature. Bigger is not always better.......

Glad I'm not the only one who likes the xB1 vs xB2.

It has completely lost the original Scion approach. Sometimes listening to customers is not what's better for 'society' if you want to look at it that way. They could have easily controlled the size, weight, while adding the other features desired by xB1 owners or followers.

Wow, that's the first actual comparison photo I've ever seen. I mean, we've all seen tons of side-by-side measurement listings and silhouettes, but that's the first time I've ever seen, like, one of the new ones next to one of the old ones.

Still looks small to me. I'm pretty sure if you parked a Suburban in the background it'd make that just a teensy bit clearer.

Thanks for the comparison pic - nice to see something concrete for once.

Thanks for the comparison pic - nice to see something concrete for once.

Just for the record I found this picture in one of the topics in xB2 forum. All props about the picture is forwarded to ToyotaIsMe. Thanks for the picture! :bow:


I'm glad to hear that everyone is satisfied with their 1st Gen. Tomas pretty much summed it up and I like his points. But don't stop there folks, keep it coming, maybe someone in the design department would read this and make xB3 better. :pray:

_________________________________________________________________________

If Superman drove to fight crime.. He would drive an xB.
-Albert Einstein

I am very glad I got my xB1. I bought it last month, I could have waited for the xB2.

1. Any regrets not waiting for the new one?

No way. I always wanted an xB ever since I saw them online a few years ago. Now I finally have one and I've had it for 2 months!

2. Did you change your mind about the xB2 since you've seen actual photos?

the styling has grown on me but for me I have to follow the general trend I'm seeing. I have to see one in person.

3. If given the chance to choose one feature from the new one to apply to the 1st Gen what would it be. and vice versa...
I only get to choose one????
Well if I only get to choose one it would have to be the nav system. Anyone know if that can be used in the 1st gen xb?
There are a few comfort and convenience features I wish I had on my xb however. Some of them can be done with a little modding. The map lighting, 2nd dome light, lighted glovebox (is that available in the 2nd gen?), shift light for my manual (I like having the indicator for optimal shift points), side and curtain airbags.
The fact that there is only 1 reverse light on the xb2 bugs me. I think it's ugly. I need to have symmetry when it comes to exterior lights.

4. 1st Gen owners do you feel inferior to the lil' monster engine that the xB2 have? no way, I'm done with my leadfoot, aggressive driving and looking to street race days. besides, theres always modding or engine swaps. not to mention a turbo kit!

5. Would you trade your xB if you are given the chance?
no way!! one day the 1st gen will be known as a cult classic if not already. I see them becoming collector cars in the future[/b]

Keep in mind that the xB2 is the result of Scion actually LISTENING to the feedback they got. They were consistantly asking "what should we change about the xB?" and getting answers. 95% of the things those people asked for they got in this new vehicle.

The problem appears to me to be that the answers came, of course, from those who were dissatisfied with the original xB design - those who wanted major changes - the ones who didn't like the xB. :(

Those who liked the xB were not clamoring for changes, those who didn't were, so the "NewGen xB" is the xB for xB haters - if that makes any sense.

The xB2 is a very nice vehicle, meets a lot of folks needs and wants, and is designed specifically to please the folks asking for changes. It will sell very well, no question, and it is a bargain.

It's just not a little box.

http://tijil.org/xB2_side01.jpg

(Sadly, all the things I wanted in an updated xB are available in the current JDM bB.)

Tom

I think the nose is a tad too long in the design dept. just a hair too. too much over hang I think. Anyone chop it back a bit?

Those who liked the xB were not clamoring for changes, those who didn't were, so the "NewGen xB" is the xB for xB haters - if that makes any sense.

I guess that makes sense for some, I love my xB, wish I could have both.

Doesn't have that unique japanese flair that the 1st gen has. My reasons haven't changed for buying my xb. It's small, good on gas and it was the only new car i could afford and feel good about buying.

It costs about $1500 more, gets worse gas mileage and isn't our Lil box anymore. Might as well just by a PT Cruiser IMO.

I couldnt buy the new one. The horrible gas mileage is enough to scare me far far away. If i buy anything new it will be the XD.

i have mixed feelings about it. i dont think i could ever get rid of my 1st gen i have had it for 2 yrs and have been every where in it and got to much attachment to it if i had the chance i would keep mine and buy a 2nd gen just so i could say i have a 1st and 2nd gen. and i would prolly leave my bagged 1st gen parked and drive the 2nd gen to keep the miles off the 1st

but there are still rumors of the Scion brand hitting Japan. then there will be some cool parts for the xB2 and xD.

1. No, higher fuel consumption, higher MSRP, & lack of true JDM goodness in the XB2 model makes me happy I picked mine up a year ago
2. Not really, it'd be great if it was a totally different car. At least now I can distinguish the two by calling mine a BB and referring to the current model as the XB.
3. Stock Red Taillights, Rear Disc Brakes, and New Tach/Dash Setup w/ the exception of the shifter. The front end is too long on the XB2 giving it the Chevy HHR look.
4. Nope, I need a fuel efficient vehicle to compensate for my gas guzzling SUV. If I want more power I'd supercharge or turbo my box. Makes up for the price difference along with the loss on the trade-in variance.
5. Nope. For two reasons: It would cost me an arm an a leg to make the XB2 look the way I'd like it to look and plus my 20-month old son absolutely loves the original box. The rear seat leg room is much more desirable to me than the trunk space. If I need the space I'll fold down the seat(s).

That color green is like that one crayon in the box that never got used!

haha! your so right about that! thanks for the laugh

Finnally saw an XB2 in person at a local dealer. I walked around the thing at least 10 times, trying to figure out why... why would Toyota design this thing? Why would they take away everything that the XB (and the XA) had going for it? I do not care at all for the design, the MPG, or the price. Everything about it seems poorly thought out.

Just as far as the gas mileage alone - it seems like they changed the engine in that 3 month period where gas went down 50 cents... didn't they realize that it will probably be up to $4 by the end of the year?

I have a funny feeling this model is not going to do very well... The Xd may even outsell it....

I have a funny feeling this model is not going to do very well... The Xd may even outsell it....I'd almost put money on it! :clap:

Easyrider1 wrote:
Just as far as the gas mileage alone - it seems like they changed the engine in that 3 month period where gas went down 50 cents... didn't they realize that it will probably be up to $4 by the end of the year?

People with big,gas guzzling,road hogging SUV/TRUCK owners that ENVY small,gas saving,road sharing xB owners now can buy a box of their own. And since they're paying that much for gas to begin with, I don't think they'll mind. I'm telling you, It baffles me how people drive those trucks/suv's without thinking about the environment. Unless ofcourse you use your truck for work, but other than that.. it's mind boggling. So IMHO, Toyota wouldn't have a hard time finding buyers for these cars. People just have too much money these days. :shock:

People with big,gas guzzling,road hogging SUV/TRUCK owners that ENVY small,gas saving,road sharing xB owners now can buy a box of their own.
Sorry, Krispies, the B2 isn't a box... :)

You are right, though, that the folks coming down from some of the larger SUVs to something that gets twice the mileage will be very happy.

Remember, the xB2 was designed to meet the desires of all those folks who didn't like the xB, and felt that it needed to be "improved" in certain ways. The company LISTENED! The xB2 is what those folks were asking for. It will sell, no problem.

http://tijil.org/xBsig.gif

Have you seen the review of the xB2 at www.thetruthaboutcars.com ?

Had my oil changed yesterday and a xB2 just arrived in the service department to get "put together". It comes delivered without fuses and wheel covers, etc. so I wasn't able to power it up, but they let me climb around it in and out. The first thing I noticed is it actually has convenience lights up front! Ha!

Anyway, it is huge inside, has great headroom and actually more leg room and the seating position is more like a "normal" car (I'm 6'-3") and felt comfortable. The guage cluster is too busy for me. I think the xB cluster works in the center of the dash because it's simple. The xB2 is too much imho.

It's a totally different vehicle and I just didn't feel like it had any character or personality, I guess. The sticker was 16,XXX and I think it will sell well but I came to the conclusion that for me it moved too far away from why I bought the xB in the first place. It is not a replacement for the first gen xB, but a leap into another category altogether.

(hmm... I think this is an excellent thread for my (technically) first official post to the forum)

1. Any regrets not waiting for the new one?
Nah.

2. Did you change your mind about the xB2 since you've seen actual photos?
Not so far. In fact, the one in that picture you used there looks kinda sneaky to me for some reason. The 1st gen looks friendlier somehow.

3. If given the chance to choose one feature from the new one to apply to the 1st Gen what would it be. and vice versa...
I haven't read up enough on the new one to know what it's got going for it.
From the 1st gen to the new one? The less-slopey appearance. And the side windows at the rear.

4. 1st Gen owners do you feel inferior to the lil' monster engine that the xB2 have?
Nah. Still have the car I used to drive if I wanna waste gas. :)

5. Would you trade your xB if you are given the chance?
Nope. Haven't had it long enough to even consider that. It's still waiting for me to drive it up to visit my sister and give it a proper road test.

On a side note, I've seen that the local dealership still has at least one 1st Gen xB. Wonder where they'll hide it when the new ones come in...

I love everything about the new xb (just about) except for the styling...
BUT: I think white is the best color for the new xb... the 5axis kit makes it look 3000x better, and the middle part of the bumper needs to be painted black or chrome to complete the look.

exhibit a:
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e219/surfcityxb/TORC%202007/TORCMay07032.jpg


only problem is... by this point, you have ALOT of money invested, as where the 1st gen looks hot straight off the lot.

1. Any regrets not waiting for the new one?
nope, 32mpg= :love:
2. Did you change your mind about the xB2 since you've seen actual photos?
nope, it's fat not phat :loser:
3. If given the chance to choose one feature from the new one to apply to the 1st Gen what would it be. and vice versa...
xB1 better a/c ... xB2 more leg room
4. 1st Gen owners do you feel inferior to the lil' monster engine that the xB2 have?
32 mpg actual!! are you kidding me!
5. Would you trade your xB if you are given the chance?
nope
:P

XB 2nd gen...

IT'S NOT A BOX.

it just doesn't work for me. And I've seen one and had the opportunity to drive one.

But that's OK. I'm HAPPY with my box. It was love at first sight.

The 1st gen XB is/was a very unique vehicle and will always have a core group of enthusists.

thats a cool blue color but it looks like a bigger 4 door gti

Well said, as usual, Tomas...Sadly this is the xB everyone asked for...more power, rounded corners, 4 wheel disc, increased safety...etc. I am just glad I got the Gen1 when I did....We should also be glad Toyota still stands by their age old Slogan, even with Scion products. "You Want it, You Got it...Toyota"

Yes, I must agree with Tomas regarding the small car feeling. Right down to owning MG's! No new XB for me.

Now, about that Smart car in Jan '08.......http://www.smartusa.com/ :love:

We should also be glad Toyota still stands by their age old Slogan, even with Scion products. "You Want it, You Got it...Toyota"In this case it was "You want it. Hope you got it cause this ain't it"! Toyota.... :rofl:

I was at the Scion dealer with 'buseta' or 'Veronica' (depending on what mood she is in) for her 20k checkup, was hanging outside enjoying a rare nice day in Memphis and had an opportunity to stare at the butts of an FJ Cruiser and an xB2 and is it my imagination or are these two vehicles just about Twinkies? Slap an extra set of doors on an FJ, lower it and you have the new xB2. That would explain the mileage. :P

1. Any regrets not waiting for the new one?
NOPE, i didn't even know about the new xb2 when i bought mine last year.

2. Did you change your mind about the xB2 since you've seen actual photos?
i really like that comparison photo it puts things into perspective. i don't like how they got rid of that window in the way back or how it's not as boxy as the old one but i guess they had to evolve.. i still haven't actually seen one in person but i'm sure once i do my mind will be made up on which one i like better.. as for right now, i like the original xb's style..

3. If given the chance to choose one feature from the new one to apply to the 1st Gen what would it be. and vice versa...
definately the side airbags, i read in consumer reports that the xb had the worst side impact crash rating. but then again that was the ONLY bad rating it got. i'm not a big fan of the lower gas mileage due to the bigger engine, especially with the gas prices being super ridiculous these days!!

4. 1st Gen owners do you feel inferior to the lil' monster engine that the xB2 have?
i sometimes wish my xb had a bigger engine but it does fine. like i said above, bigger engine means more gas every week and i cant afford it.

5. Would you trade your xB if you are given the chance? HELLS NO!! i'll keep it and just buy another car. i have the rs3 and i want to keep it in hopes of it being a collector someday!! so as soon as i can afford a new car i'm putting this one in storage..

(Like me, others have said they would like the side airbags in an original xB like package. The current JDM bB has side airbags, as does the LHD version available in much of the rest of the world - except the US - the "Materia." Pics and discussion over at the ALIVE AND WELL (http://www.scionlife.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=176181) topic...)

Tom

I was at a scion dealer and the guy said the 1st gen would do down in value with the release of the new one... but i think the opposite happened. It seems like everyone still loves their xbs

Ali_Cat wrote:
I was at a scion dealer and the guy said the 1st gen would do down in value with the release of the new one... but i think the opposite happened. It seems like everyone still loves their xbs

IMHO there are four types of 2nd Gen Buyers:

1. xB/bB collectors that just can't get enough of the xB product. This type of buyers like the features of the original xB as much as they love the new ones. These people respect both 1st Gen and 2nd Gen since they own both. This are the type of people that I respect a lot because they don't bash on our xB's.

2. xB/bB Newbies. These type of buyers are the ones that have no idea what the original xB's good points. These are the people that think "BIGGER IS BETTER". They tend to be biased about their cars and their xB's faster,better made, and just an overall better car than the original. Maybe it is maybe it's not, but sometimes I wish they would just keep it to themselves than bash 1st Gens. But on thing I do know is that the reason why some of these 2nd Gen owners have this attitude is because of 1st Gen owners bashing their cars.

3. Soccer Moms/Dads that needs a spacious city car. The two 2nd Gen xB's I saw on the road were both owned by two guys in business suits. I am yet to see a "younger" owner out there.

4. Four but not the least, my favorite one. 2nd Gen buyers that were too late to buy their 1st Gens and settled for the 2nd Gen. These people are cool because they know how "cool" the 1st Gen are and they hope that their 2nd Gen would be cool too. Me personally I like both cars.

So, here are my thoughts.. Stop bashing each other's cars. And if someone bashes your car, take it as a compliment that they actually took time out of their lives to look at you car and say something about it. You may or may not agree, but it's all constructive criticism. If you're gonna make comments about someone's car, make legitimate ones like Tomas, when he writes something, people read, why you ask? Because he backs it up with Articles, Numbers, and Research findings. It"s okay not to like other cars but be "open" to what they say.

Respect and Appreciate each other, this is what this forum is for.

whoa whoa...i didn't say ANYTHING about not liking the new xb so i don't know where that came from. i agree with you, so lets not be hasty.

whoa whoa...i didn't say ANYTHING about not liking the new xb so i don't know where that came from. i agree with you, so lets not be hasty.

Haha. I didn't mean to come off like that. If anything I used your quote Because I agree with you, we all still love your xB. My previous post wasn't about your quote. Sorry about the miscommunication.

its ok...all is forgiven. lol...

I believe Tomas is right. All Scion did is make a car with the improvments that many of us had asked for. But it comes in a different package then alot of us pictured. Had Scion stuck to its plan of a 3 or 4 year run on a design and given it a different name. We hard core XB lovers would more than likely embraced it. But I would not give up my XB for a new one. It has alot going for it and I well be very interested to see where it goes. With Scion it well be fun to watch.

1. Any regrets not waiting for the new one?
Yea, shoulda waited on the RS4 xB, now I'm to 3 xB payments into one.
2. Did you change your mind about the xB2 since you've seen actual photos?
I hated it when I saw the pics, but once I test drove it I loved it.
3. If given the chance to choose one feature from the new one to apply to the 1st Gen what would it be. and vice versa...
xB1 better bigger trunk ... xB2 fix the blind spot
4. 1st Gen owners do you feel inferior to the lil' monster engine that the xB2 have?
Screw the gas I'm getting about the same anyway.
5. Would you trade your xB if you are given the chance?
Yes I have and glad I did.

Noodles5666 wrote

xB1 better bigger trunk ... xB2 fix the blind spot


The blind spots caused by the absence of the rear windows or is because it's longer?

missing the rear windows

I believe Tomas is right. All Scion did is make a car with the improvments that many of us had asked for. But it comes in a different package then alot of us pictured. Had Scion stuck to its plan of a 3 or 4 year run on a design and given it a different name. We hard core XB lovers would more than likely embraced it. But I would not give up my XB for a new one. It has alot going for it and I well be very interested to see where it goes. With Scion it well be fun to watch.

i agree.

i think if it had a more boxy design, the 1st gen owners would like it more because it looked like an xb...like nothing else

sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

1. Any regrets not waiting for the new one?
when i bought my tc in early 05, it was parked next to a camo box with 18's from the dealer. i thought it was so cool but i boutht the tc instead. every since then i regreted not buying that box. when i seen the photos of the new xb on this site, i huried and traded in my tc for a new 06 xb before they were gone.(hence, i hated it), this was in feb 07.
2. Did you change your mind about the xB2 since you've seen actual photos?
it does seem to look better to me, but like many already said, it looks too much like a hhr or a pt curiser, so un scion like
3. If given the chance to choose one feature from the new one to apply to the 1st Gen what would it be. and vice versa...
i would take the bigger engine from the new xb and apply it to the first, and i would take the boxyness from the old xb and add it to the new
4. 1st Gen owners do you feel inferior to the lil' monster engine that the xB2 have?
not really, but sure wouldnt mind having my tc engine back.
5. Would you trade your xB if you are given the chance?
see answer to number 1.

i think if it had a more boxy design, the 1st gen owners would like it more because it looked like an xb...like nothing else

I don't mind the shape as much as the shift in thinking. The first xB was economical and compact but spacious. The new one is larger, a bit less economical and somewhat more claustrophobic.

1.5 to 2.4 is a bit of a jump. I think the 1.8 matrix/corolla engine would've been fine, at least there'd be a balance between power and economy. I also think the loss of headroom is a shame, as well as the loss of rear leg room.

By measurement it might not be much, but perception is everything.

The original xB was big on the inside, and small on the outside. The latest iteration of the xB doesn't 'feel' that way, hence the vitriol.

It's *somewhat* like how Ford contemplated switching from a RWD mustang to a 4 cyl FWD. It's not the same. Ultimately the spun the FWD 4 cyl and the probe and kept the mustang. It would've been nice if Scion thought of keeping this xB as the t2b and not modifying the 1st gen xB so much.

At this point, you can't get a shiny new toaster... just used. That stings a little.

I agree with Tomas on all his points. An improvement in safety features such as side air bags would be helpful to the original xB.

I am so pleased with the two 05xBs we have, I went scrambling to find a third one (an 06) a couple of months ago before the local dealerships ran out. Do two drivers need 3 cars? Not really, but I couldn't resist after I saw the new one.
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/Yellowsubxb/IMG_NA01354.jpg

See:
http://www.clubxb.com/forums/f2/10129-new-xb-sub-category-3-xb/

Furthermore, as I said on another bulletin board, I think the second thoughts many of us are having about the new xB is that although it's a Scion, it's not in the original xB tradition of "less is more." The original is good simple spacious, non-pretentious and very foreign feeling transportation with tons of room and a bit underpowered - it has all the hallmarks of what the VW Bug and Microbus did in the 1960s. The new one is a whole different vehicle, clearly made for the young American market. I'd be interested to see how its sales compare, espcially in my age group where the original did quite well in spite of Toyota's marketing stratgies toward the younger generation. They should have called the new one something else (xTc - as in ecstasy) and taken the original, added a bit more suspension and another 18 inches or so for baby carriages and even wheelchairs and marketed it as a Toyota for the MPG concious middle and older aged folks who don't see the need for a gas guzzling SUV (S-tupid U-nnecssary V-ehicle)

But! Did the folks at Scion listen to me. Nope! Their loss. LOL

I've recently seen 2 new 2nd Gen by my school and I would have to say.. It's not that bad.. One thing I've noticed is that it's not really that big of a difference size wise... Maybe it's an optical illusion. One thing is for certain though... I still love and always love my 1st Gen more. But the 2nd Gen has special place in my heart.. :P


Anyone else want to answer these? Let's revive my topic shall we??

I think that more people would have felt differently about the xB2 if they had given it it's own name. Why call something an xB when it is so far from the original? Scion F'd up on that one!

well it still kinda takes after the original xB, I think they improved a lot. Especially as far as the engine goes.

1) No regrets. I like the improvements, but they weren't enough for me to make the switch.
2) No; I actually like it better in person. However, it's not nearly as distinctive as the 1st-gen model.
3) The bigger engine, without a doubt. Hell, I'd be fine with the Corolla engine.
4) I don't feel inferior. After driving the new xB, it doesn't have a boatload more power than the old one, but I will say the new xB doesn't feel like you're pushing it as much as the 1st-gen does.
5) Nope. I'm running this thing until the wheels fall off.

1. Any regrets not waiting for the new one? None at all.
We love our three Gen1 xBs.

2. Did you change your mind about the xB2 since you've seen actual photos?
Nope - And we road tested the Gen2 5 speed manual at the Backstage event this past weekend.

3. If given the chance to choose one feature from the new one to apply to the 1st Gen what would it be. and vice versa...
From the new, I'd take the curtain air bags, from the old, I'd take the larger head room and leg room - I felt smothered in the new Gen2 like I was driving a Mini.

4. 1st Gen owners do you feel inferior to the lil' monster engine that the xB2 have?
The acceleration on the Gen2 was obviously better but so was the roll (tipping side to side) on the turns doing less that 30 MPH.

5. Would you trade your xB if you are given the chance?
Abolutely not! They'd have to do much more to the Gen2, including improving the MPG, the tendency to roll on turns and the interior space up front. If I wanted more power in a box, I could have gotten a Toyota Sienna or some other mini van that has more creeature comforts.

The success of the Gen1 Box is that "Less is more." Not true in Gen2

well it still kinda takes after the original xB, I think they improved a lot. Especially as far as the engine goes.We'll excuse this comment coming from a tC owner. The only parts that remotely look like an xB are the doors which ain't saying much. :eyebrow:

Call me crazy but it really bothers me that that thing has the xB name on it. What were they thinking??? :doh:

I must agree with some of you regarding the JDM-ability of this new platform, however being an autoholic makes me believe that you can invariably make anything look good or even great. I personally was disappointed that Toyota USA didn't bring the true 2nd gen bB here. Here is some pics of the current bB as well as some concepts i was working on before the release.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r34/mbtworks/18052006484.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r34/mbtworks/18052006488.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r34/mbtworks/P10103022.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r34/mbtworks/bbconcept.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r34/mbtworks/newbbvip2.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r34/mbtworks/newbBmbtdsports.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r34/mbtworks/newbBmbtdfixedvip.jpg

third gen bB is ugly to me as well , mayeb even worse aesthetics wise than the xB2

I prefer the look of the original xB, but would settle for the current
bB/Materia as opposed to the current xB_Too simply because I prefer the
Citycar class of vehicle.

Keep in mind that the actual cubic feet of interior space is nearly identical
between the original xB and the xB_Too, despite the xB_Too being a foot
longer and a few inches wider...

Tom

yeap , the main benefit you can tell with the xb2 is the additional cargo depth. but teh loss in cabin height kills it a bit.

but most people don't pack their nice new cars to the roof with things but just place bags or boxes and that extra cargo area depth/ length is NICE

BTW, the current bB and the left-hand-drive version, the Materia, are being discussed
over here: http://www.scionlife.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=176181

http://tijil.org/bB_2.jpg

I do agree! I love my 1st gen and don't think I would exchange mine for either of the others-
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r34/mbtworks/sa4707.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r34/mbtworks/AUTOCRAVEFLIERMBTcopy.jpg
Thanks for the link Tomas!

1. Any regrets not waiting for the new one?
2. Did you change your mind about the xB2 since you've seen actual photos?
3. If given the chance to choose one feature from the new one to apply to the 1st Gen what would it be. and vice versa...
4. 1st Gen owners do you feel inferior to the lil' monster engine that the xB2 have?
5. Would you trade your xB if you are given the chance?

1.) No. I always have liked the design of the original, plus this is the first car I've bought out of pocket.
2.) I like the xB2, don't get me wrong, but I don't think it should be called an xB. Doesn't have the same flavor as the original.
3.) Air bags, I imagine.
4.) No, not at all. The engine is one of the reasons I chose the xB. A roomy box that sipped on gas was exactly what I needed.
5.) I love my xB, but I realize the value of the new xB2. So, I'd probably trade the xB, sell the xB2, buy the xB back and pocket some cash. :P

third gen bB is ugly to me as well , mayeb even worse aesthetics wise than the xB2Exactly right. That would have been a no winner flip of the coin. Either way it lands on the edge with no true winner. :rofl:

third gen bB is ugly to me as well , mayeb even worse aesthetics wise than the xB2

There is no third gen bB. There's only two generations. This xB2 isn't actually related to either bBs in any way shape or form.

There are 3 generations of bBs. 2 look like the xb1 and the new bB which the USA didn't get.

No, there actually are three generation os the JDM bB.

Our xB is derived from the second gen bB.

The first gen bB had a smooth hatch with no recess for the plate (which was mounted in a recess in the bumper) and some other minor differences, inside and out.

The current bB is considered third gen in it's home market.

Tom

Heheheheheh... I was typing while you were posting. :D

Tom

Heheheheheh... I was typing while you were posting. :D

TomThat's OK :silly: You said it way better than I tried to. :bow:

I think that more people would have felt differently about the xB2 if they had given it it's own name. Why call something an xB when it is so far from the original? Scion F'd up on that one!

think of it this way. they changed a bunch of cars and called them the same name. for instance the camaro , Even the corolla has changed from it's original form.

Not anywhere like this. Those were more of an evolution. This xB2 thing was a giant leap over a few different versions. Heck it's not even square anymore???

I think that more people would have felt differently about the xB2 if they had given it it's own name. Why call something an xB when it is so far from the original? Scion F'd up on that one!

think of it this way. they changed a bunch of cars and called them the same name. for instance the camaro , Even the corolla has changed from it's original form.

Ford changed the Taurus, the F150s, and Dodge changed the Rams, the new Camry looks nothing like the last one, etc.

what about the blazer , or bronco? they both changed yet kept the same name.

what about the blazer , or bronco? they both changed yet kept the same name.

true, true, they went from a full size SUV to like a S-10 size SUV.

the toyota truck changed as well as the nissan trucks. just to name a few more :)

the thing though is that scion said that after each 3 years the NAMEPLATE as well as the body style dies.


the style dies the nameplate did not and since the xB (first one) is VERY unique and now there's a new xB which to most of us is an abomination of what an xB is/should be.


all the cars you mentioned above minus the blazer continued to be the same type of car aka truck , sport car , van , suv. not from a urbancar / subcompact into a compact/midsize car.

the toyota truck changed as well as the nissan trucks. just to name a few more :) those changed names.....

nissan's name changed the most , from datsun something or another to nissan truck then to the nissan hardbody , after that it was frontier , then "full size" titan in addition to the smaller frontier


toyota's were named truck/pickup from their inception until 1995 when the tacoma came out , then there was the t100 then the "full size" tundra in addition.

"What's in a name? That which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet."

--From Romeo and Juliet (II, ii, 1-2) Shakespeare


If Scion produced another box similar to the xB and called it something else, it would still be in the tradition of the "less is more" Gen 1 box.

They've done the opposite - they've kept the name and created an entirely new vehicle that bears no resemblance in style, function and culture to the original.

To paraphrase Master Will, "What's in the name of a car? That which we call a Gen 1 xB, by any other name would drive as sweetly."

No, there actually are three generation os the JDM bB.

Tom

I stand corrected. :doh:


"What's in a name? That which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet."

--From Romeo and Juliet (II, ii, 1-2) Shakespeare


That technically doesn't apply, as the rose in that quote is still the 1st gen rose. If it were a 2nd gen rose but it actually looked like a tulip, calling it a rose would make no sense. :lol:

It's how Ford thought of changing the Mustang from a RWD beast to a FWD Japanese 4 cyl. The mustang community was absolutely outraged, which is why there is a Ford probe and a ford Mustang. Ford recognized that fundamentally changing the design but keeping the name would outrage their very fanatical patrons and hurt their bottom line.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Mustang#Proposed_replacement

I'm not going to say the jump from the xB to the xB2 was as ridiculous. However, there is something to be said about the original xB with its counter culture message of 'less is more'; and the xB2, the heir apparent, with its almost formal apology for its elder's 'dirty hippy' attitude and acquiescing to the US market.

A true fellow "Intellect In A Box"

"To stir men's blood: I only speak right on" Antony in Shakespeare's Julius Ceasar
:bow:

1st gen wins. that's my take.
xB2's are getting eaten up by those who are in the bigger is better category. And yes, all cars nowadays are getting too "big" and rounder and fatter. i don't like the trend.
ok maybe not that drastic, but it's a debate. like everyone said, it's like you take an older ferrari or something and compare it with the 599 GTB. oh sure, the 599 is ridiculous and is probably the best touring ferrari has ever produced, but you absolutely must bow down to an old 250GT or even a 575 maranello.
this is just my opinion.

The first gen was a simple seeming passenger carrier designed for a crowded environment. Basically design a spacious, comfortable 5 person transport pod with good visibility, easy access, and that would fit with room left over in a 2x5 meter parking space.

Put in a small motor to move it and wrap it in a sheath with no wasted spaces: The original bB, and eventually the xB.

The xB_Too takes essentially that same space, but attaches a larger than necessary motor, and wraps it in a sheath with rounded corners and bulbous hips. It is less comfortable in that parking spot, and on crowded streets, but it tries.

The xB_Too is a good product, and should sell well, but it is not the unapologetically square, strictly form-follows-function people box the original was.

There was something about how focused the original was that was endearing, that made it a cult icon both here and in it's native land.

The xB_Too takes it's cues from the rest of the cars in the marketplace - the original thumbed it's snub little nose at them.

Tom

http://tijil.org/xB_xB2_Chev01.gif

This is kinda like what Ford did to the Mustang back in 74' with the Mustang II. They went and made a Mustang out of a Pinto and look how long it took to get back to where it should have always been.
They should have at least called it the xB2 so people wouldn't confuse it with the original one.

Tomas - You read my mind. I was thinking more of the profile of the old Astro passenger van but the xBGenToo does fit many American profiles.

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/Yellowsubxb/Astro.jpg

I test drove a new xB and if you travel interstate, it is no comparison. The new xB is much better on the open road.

I test drove a new xB and if you travel interstate, it is no comparison. The new xB is much better on the open road.So when are you trading yours in and getting one??? You just repeated what most everyone else has already stated. :doh:

No I don't drive interstate much.

Yeah, same here. With probably less than 5% of my driving being spent on the wide open highways, and 95% being spent in tight urban crawl, I have no reason to buy a freeway cruiser.

If the box couldn't handle the few longer high-speed trips I take, I could always rent something to take the punishment... So far, though, the box has done just fine going up and down over mountain ranges and across deserts on runs to Montana, etc.

http://tijil.org/xBsig.gif

i drive about 80% on the highway and i'd never give up the xB for an xB deux

what's the handling like with the xb2 relative to the xB1 ?
seeing as how it's a bigger car, heavier of course, and built by scion now, how does it feel ? anyone?

they say it handles better , everyone who's driven one and stock versus stock it probably does , but i KNOW my car outhandles one.

More lean and roll, smoother feel, steering has less feedback, and it doesn't seem as happy with being 'tossed' into corners as the box does.

It is a competent platform and handles well, but doesn't have the "closed go cart" feel of the xB. The driver is just a bit more removed from what is really happening out there.

The xB_Too does as well or better than others in it's general class, but that class is larger and heavier than the original.

http://tijil.org/short_vanilla_av.gif

1. Any regrets not waiting for the new one?

Not really, but mostly because the original worked out so well.

2. Did you change your mind about the xB2 since you've seen actual photos?

No. It's a different vehicle, and will probably be loved by the new owners like I love my box.

3. If given the chance to choose one feature from the new one to apply to the 1st Gen what would it be. and vice versa...

I'd take the engine from the new one and put it in mine, and I'd take the styling from mine and put it in the new one.

4. 1st Gen owners do you feel inferior to the lil' monster engine that the xB2 have?

I like the new xB's engine, but I've been content with the one in mine from day one.

5. Would you trade your xB if you are given the chance?

Yeah... I'll trade it straight up to anyone for a new Corvette, Elise, Supra or even an Escalade. I highly doubt that will happen though, so I guess my answer must be No.