Top ten things I DONT like about the xB [Archive]

mikem53

11-01-2005, 06:22 PM

1- Power... I would gladly give up a mpg or two for more useable power. Power to merge, climb hills are nice to have

2- Thin sheet metal... Looking hard at the box can cause a dent.. Since the panels are tall, they should be beefier... just push on a panel and see for yourself... not too hard though..

3- Interior lighting... Are they having a bulb shortage in Japan? You can't see ____ at night.. especially on the drivers side. The cruise control is also worthless in the dark.

4- Noisey.. Too much engine drone.. I like mechanical sounds... but the xB has some ugly sounds entering the cabin.. They could have used more insulation in the firewall area and made it a nicer place to be.

5- Weak AC... It works.. but can take forever to cool things down on a warm day... The weakest AC of any car around. The fix doesn't help much either.

6- Bouncy ride.. seems like they could have made the rear less stiff. The ride is good for the most part.. but they could have engineered a less stiff ride and still maintained good handling... My Z06 rides better and its very stiff.

7- Cheap ___ plastic dip stick.. Why not provide a metal stick that won't warp, harden and break with time.

8- Drum brakes.. Geeezz.. I thought these things went the way of the Dodo bird along with carburators and vapor lock..

9- Paint.. It looks good... but it doesn't hold up very well... its like it doesn't stick good.. A floating piece of styrofoam will cause it chip..
I know the new paints are water based... but I don't have these issues with my other cars..

10- People asking me when do the Klowns come out....

These are my complaints... I still like the car... Its fun to drive, makes for a great run-a-bout, its economical to buy and maintain... but like anything else... its not perfect...

IndyTruks138

11-01-2005, 06:36 PM

then why did you buy it, the ac is great, you are insane, the ride is better than 80% of cars out there right now and everyone i've known knew the paint was cheap so don't complain

SteveOs_ScionXB

11-01-2005, 06:40 PM

I support the opinionated. - Nice write up.
:clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:

mikem53

11-01-2005, 06:40 PM

then why did you buy it, the ac is great, you are insane, the ride is better than 80% of cars out there right now and everyone i've known knew the paint was cheap so don't complain

Sorry .. I thought this was a forum for open discussion... I didn't know I wasn't supposed to mention things you don't care for..

I think your estimate on ride quality of other cars is way off or you only ride in trucks and jeeps.

AC sucks.. its barely aqequate... you must like up north where its already cold.

Match_Box

11-01-2005, 06:49 PM

mikem53

11-01-2005, 06:52 PM

peterf

11-01-2005, 06:55 PM

I know this for us to list things we don't like, but my list is similar yours...just not as long. To address some of them...

1) agree
2) agree
3) I don't have a problem with the lighting. I'm sure there must be a quick "mod" for interior lighting.
4) I questioned this before I purchased my xB. Honestly, I don't think it's that bad. It's not as quiet as a lexus, but totally different mkt segment. I had a Jeep Wrangler many years back...now that's a noisy interior. :P

5) No problems for me
6) Overall the ride is very good for me. But I've hit a few highways (looks like concrete) were the ride is definitely bouncy. Overall, 95% of the time it's great.
7) Agree
8) agree
9) Haven't owned it long enough to comment. Seems good so far. :P
10) n/a

MikeC

11-01-2005, 06:59 PM

Nice write up, but ultimately do the pros outway the cons?

mikem53

11-01-2005, 07:08 PM

Nice write up, but ultimately do the pros outway the cons?

Yes... Fun to drive, economical, good utility,reliable, unique... It's my errand car... does great for zipping around town... Great for those homedepot runs where my other cars can't hang...

elusivedragon

11-01-2005, 07:12 PM

2 sides to every story I respect your dislikes! :clap:

Its all from each of our own points of view too...a/c on my corolla wasnt that great so for me im loving this lol

and the bottom line is it IS an economical car...so they had to cut corners somewhere...I think what we get vs. what we dont get are a huge difference in favor of the positive.

nice points, nice writeup as stated previously.

Chillaxin206

11-01-2005, 08:20 PM

I keep hearing people say somethig about the engine noise. I have no problem with the sound of my engine, Its not loud at all. Am I the only one? because the way people talk about their engines noise I feel like I should really be hearing something and I don't. I really agree witht he interior lighting though. I don't like the fact that there is only one light sort of in the middle which does nothing for the front. That could have been better designed.

rdclark

11-01-2005, 08:38 PM

1. Power - I'm happy right where it is, exactly as much as I need. You have to be willing to floor the pedal with a small Four. It does no harm.

2. Sheet Metal - I dunno, I have no dents.

3. Interior Lighting - I agree. It's particularly annoying when you open the tailgate at night and can't see what's in the cargo area.

4. Noise - It's no worse than other small Fours I've owned. It roars when you accelerate, but it's not a problem at 70mph (with the auto). Most of the noise then is coming from the exhaust.

5. A/C - I have no complaints, but I can understand why others might. I also noticed how I immediately started getting 2mpg better when I stopped using it, so maybe a more powerful AC would not be as welcome as one might imagine.

6. Ride - I love the ride. I love the feel of the road, the sense that the car is glued to the pavement. I can see how someone might think it's harsh, but it's one of the attractions of the car, for me.

7. Dip Stick - If it ever becomes an actual problem, let us know. Meanwhile, it's less likely to burn you than a metal one.

8. Drum brakes - I've had disc/drum on every car I've owned, except the oldest ones. It works. It's simple, it's proven, it's cheap.

9. Paint - Still waiting for a problem on mine.

10. People's opinions - a) who cares? b) around here, xB's are common and sought-after.

Me, I've been buying "the cheapest car that does the job" for 30 years. The xB is by far the best example of that I've ever owned. Of course, the current definition of "the job" changes over time.

RichC

IndyTruks138

11-01-2005, 08:57 PM

Well I agree you should be able to post your opinions I just can be quick to criticize negative posts about my baby. As far as teh ac I live in texas, hard to find hotter and more humid, and I am fine, yeah you may have to kick it up to level 3 to cool it down but I have never had a problem with it. As far as ride my whole family drives luxury vehicles and prefer to ride in the box with me, so no, I don't ever ride in trucks or jeeps. Anyways, hope you can get past the negatives and enjoy your box.

Underhill

11-01-2005, 09:03 PM

LunchLady

11-01-2005, 09:14 PM

I like it ....it's fun and easy on the pocketbook. It beats walking and a sharp stick in the eye. I don't care what kind of car you drive you will ALWAYS find something you don't like about it no matter the cost of the vehicle. So enjoy what you got and Be The Box!!! :P

mikem53

11-01-2005, 09:23 PM

Personally I think the Xb is a cheap car that doesnt feel, look or handle anywhere near as poorly as any of the other cheap cars I've driven.

And I've owned my share. Early 80's Starlet, mid 80's Omni and GTI, early 90's Tercel, Late 90's Neon and now the Xb (also an MG midget and a mini but those were novelties not true 'cheap cars').

If you can find a better one for the price, buy it.

I agree... it doesn't feel like a cheap car.. It does handle better than many other econo cars... In fact the xB like most toyotas feel very precise and refined. My family and I are very fortunate, we have some nice cars at hand. Lexus, BMW...etc.. The box feels good.. I enjoy driving it... but it does have some low spots... as I mentioned.... but then again... so does the GS400 and the Z06.... I was just pointing out what I feel is lacking in this otherwise fine car.... just making conversation... Oh and my family loves to give me grief about my cars... but they really like to tease me about the box...
When I have it parked next to the Lexus... I tell my in-laws... "See.. you could have saved $35K and bought the xB.... its almost the same thing...." So I bring on the insults myself... I made my sister in-law bow to the box when she asked me to help her return a piece of furniture that she couldn't fit in her car........ it was great..

1sicbox

11-01-2005, 09:41 PM

I live in Phoenix and have not had probs with the a/c

1. Interior lighting would help out, or maybe a light in the glove box.

2. Road noise is fairly loud, but hats why I have 2 12's in the back to drone it out =)

3. No dent problems and I drive 80miles on the freeway roundtrip to go to work.

4. The only complaint I have is the noise I get from the rear everytime I hit a bump, yes I'm lowered, but I even heard this in my buddys who is stock it was just not as loud.

Other than that I love my box, very happy with scion far.
Just wanted to put in my 2 cents.

Thanks all

mfbenson

11-01-2005, 09:59 PM

1- Power... What are you hauling? Mine has plenty of power.

2- Thin sheet metal... Never had a problem with it.

3- Interior lighting... The cruise control is worthless in the dark. Ok, but its positioned such that it ain't too easy to use in the day either.

4- Noisey.. Yep.

5- Weak AC... Set it on recirculate - makes a world of difference.

6- Bouncy ride.. Amen. This would be my #1 complaint.

7- Cheap butt plastic dip stick.. You kidding? This is nit picking. Let us know if it ever actually breaks.

8- Drum brakes.. 60 to 0 stopping distances are phenomenal, what more do you want?

9- Paint.. Amen - this would be my #2 complaint.

10- People asking me when do the Klowns come out... Hasn't been a problem, but if it was I'd say that I make my co-workers drive their own cars...

Overall the pros still vastly outweigh the cons...

mikem53

11-01-2005, 11:06 PM

theappe

11-01-2005, 11:11 PM

No issues with the AC here and i live in the Caribbean where our winters are 80 degree temperature..lol

There are some things i dont like about the XB, like the lack of a Water temp gauge, but its not something too big of an issue.. Most of the stuff you listed can be solved by modding it..

Good point... lack of gauges should have been number 11 :)

i actually like that is DOESNT have gauges? if there are so many things wrong why did you buy it. you should stick to your z06 :blah:

theappe

11-01-2005, 11:11 PM

RedneckwithanxB

11-01-2005, 11:20 PM

ac sucks in FL

needs a lower 5th gear, MAYBE A 6TH GEAR

seats with built in arm rests like the pt cruisers

bigger inside rear view mirror

mikem53

11-01-2005, 11:25 PM

mikem53

11-01-2005, 11:38 PM

http://www.zmikem53.com/car%20pics%20020r.jpg

Rayman

11-02-2005, 12:07 AM

mikem53

11-02-2005, 12:32 AM

It would definitely feel underpowered after driving the Z06. Actually if the cooper S is turbo, I forget, then all of the cars you have listed would make it feel underpowered.

I agree with a lot of the stuff your saying. I too wish it had a little more grunt in certain situations. For the most part is serves me well as the commuter car I bought if for. Didn't want to get a Corolla or Civic(not current version) was my main reason for getting it.

I'm not comparing it to my other cars... I am saying that the xB seems underpowered at times... MOST of the time it is adequate... but sometimes you need to merge and there is not enough there to do it.. Also a full load REALLY makes the box slow... but that doesn't happen often...

Rayman

11-02-2005, 12:41 AM

Yeah, don't have to do that much merging on my commute. Stupid one lane highway for about 15 miles. There are two passes along the way but there're really no point passing because you always run into another slow car. Only had to take it on multi-lane highway about twice and wanted a little more pep on the merges.

1epoXyBox

11-02-2005, 12:55 AM

Its such a great little car for the price. To keep price down, keep all that stuff as options I say.

Underhill

11-02-2005, 02:09 AM

mikem53

11-02-2005, 02:26 AM

Making this as simple as possible let me ask this of Mikem.

What car with even a remotely comperable price has the features, comfort or drivability of the X?

I understand if you were a poor ignorant college student who just wishes he had a lexus. What I don't understand is why a person who has the cars you say you have would complain about anything.

If you want a lexus, obviously you can get one.

Every car has pros and cons... I am not slamming the xB... just commenting on what would make it better. I pointed out what I don't like... I also mentioned things I do like.. Obviously... I liked it enough to buy it. I drive this car the most out of all my cars... I enjoy it... I would enjoy it better if it had some of the things in the list I mentioned...
I can easily create a list of cons for any of my cars... It doesn't mean I wouldn't want to own them.... I'm content with the box... it suits my needs... its my beater car... I take it downtown, it carries yard crap for the lawn.. it does it all.. Can't do that with my other cars... I can but I need to make several trips... you get the point...

mikem53

11-02-2005, 02:42 AM

If you want a lexus, obviously you can get one.

I did own a Lexus... not too long ago... My wifes RX330... I hated it.. talked her into getting rid of it..
Its an overpriced sofa with wheels. No road feel, no handling... notihng... It had nav, rear camera, auto hatch closing thingy... yuck...
Would rather drive the box anyday.. I'm not a snob... I drive what I like, I don't drive to impress others.. The box handles pretty good.. easy to get in and out of too... funny lookin, hard riding... but its fun to drive... my wife likes it too.. shes says its easy to park and zip thru parking lots...

bBlover

11-02-2005, 03:46 AM

Then why did you buy an xB if you have problems?? Sell it if ya don't like it!!

svt_to_xb

11-02-2005, 01:38 PM

1- Power... I would gladly give up a mpg or two for more useable power. Power to merge, climb hills are nice to have

2- Thin sheet metal... Looking hard at the box can cause a dent.. Since the panels are tall, they should be beefier... just push on a panel and see for yourself... not too hard though..

3- Interior lighting... Are they having a bulb shortage in Japan? You can't see poop at night.. especially on the drivers side. The cruise control is also worthless in the dark.

4- Noisey.. Too much engine drone.. I like mechanical sounds... but the xB has some ugly sounds entering the cabin.. They could have used more insulation in the firewall area and made it a nicer place to be.

5- Weak AC... It works.. but can take forever to cool things down on a warm day... The weakest AC of any car around. The fix doesn't help much either.

6- Bouncy ride.. seems like they could have made the rear less stiff. The ride is good for the most part.. but they could have engineered a less stiff ride and still maintained good handling... My Z06 rides better and its very stiff.

7- Cheap butt plastic dip stick.. Why not provide a metal stick that won't warp, harden and break with time.

8- Drum brakes.. Geeezz.. I thought these things went the way of the Dodo bird along with carburators and vapor lock..

9- Paint.. It looks good... but it doesn't hold up very well... its like it doesn't stick good.. A floating piece of styrofoam will cause it chip..
I know the new paints are water based... but I don't have these issues with my other cars..

10- People asking me when do the Klowns come out....

These are my complaints... I still like the car... Its fun to drive, makes for a great run-a-bout, its economical to buy and maintain... but like anything else... its not perfect...

OK, MY TWO CENTS. Things I like about the car

1. power - enought to get me around and still keep me from speeding tickets
2. thin sheet metal - parts cheap to replace, and easy to work with
3. interior lighting - i like seeing whats outside, not inside
4. noise - easy to hear if something is going wrong.
5. a.c. - plenty to cool down, and doesn't draw much from engine.
6. ride - a little bouncy, but great handling for a vehicle like this.
7. dip stick - cheap to replace and i've bent my share of metal ones.
8. drum brakes - cheap to replace - we're not trying to stop a porsche.
9. Paint - gives me a reason to customize it to my likings
10. criticism - it's the highest form of flattery. :)

mikem53

11-02-2005, 04:20 PM

Then why did you buy an xB if you have problems?? Sell it if ya don't like it!!

Try reading the thread before you come to incorrect conclusions... a little comprehension goes a long way..

tat2dude25

11-03-2005, 01:54 AM

I Love my XB, but I do agree with the power opinion. It could be a little faster, but on the other hand a lot less speeding tickets! The on issue I have with the XB is the factory stereo. I didn't like the knob volume control. The worst is the in-glass radio antenna. That is garbage. If you live in a large city you probably would never notice but if you live in a sparse populated area you cannot pick up any stations. My XB is going to ziebart to get a real Mast antenna soon to replace the factory one. But its a small sacrifice for the cost and quality of this car. Besides its not a CIVIC and you dont see one in every driveway acrossed America!

akxb

11-03-2005, 03:41 AM

Here's my .02 in reply

1- Power... I don't think anything will ever have enough power for me... I'd call the xB power plant, sufficient.

2- Thin sheet metal... MPG is all about being light. I've driven in Geo Metros and Ford Festivas, compared to them the xB seems like a tank.

3- Interior lighting... I agree there isn't enough light inside!! LET THERE BE LIGHT!

4- Noisey.. ya, somewaht, but then again, I've mostly had trucks so to me it's not bad

5- Weak AC... I live in Alaska, I don't really know, haven't used it yet other than to defog the windshield.

6- Bouncy ride.. I don't mind it much, it is bouncey somewhat.

7- Cheap butt plastic dip stick.. YUK,
8- Drum brakes.. Drum breaks are more than suffiecient for this car. The only thing rear disks would really help is just looks. Most of your braking in in the front. Not an issue to me.

9- Paint.. It looks good... but it doesn't hold up very well... I haven't had mine long enough to know how it holds up, but I did get the 3m paint protection for the front.

10- People asking me when do the Klowns come out.... I am a clown, not an issue. :)

What I would add to the list being in Alaska is, I want heated mirrors. Also cruise control should be standard.

Big_Pimpin'

11-03-2005, 04:37 AM

First, unless i am missing it, there is only one power supply (I admit there is a very good chance I have overlooked the second one, if it indeed exists). How can a car that is so hip and cool, and targeted to the younger set have only 1?

Second, the cargo cover is a joke. The cover on my wife's Sante Fe works much better. I know, you are saying "How can it work better, it only covers the cargo." But the xB's has no tension, and droops / sags. Should work more like a window blind.

As for the power and speed...not a problem for me. I was in the fast lane of N-bound I-75 here in Detroit and noticed it was humming right along at 90mph. Did not seem like it. I just unloaded a Buick 6 cylinder, which felt about the same at those speeds.

Finally, I wish those darn clowns would stop jumping out at every red light. Gets annoying after a while.

Tmanion

11-03-2005, 04:51 AM

DeansBlackBox

11-03-2005, 05:32 AM

1. power - throw a header on, cat back muffler, and a air intake with the manuel and you'll have a lot more fun driving....it's a economical 4 that is great on gas and fun around corners...it probably won't beat a souped up civic...but you'll still be looking good rolling up to the next stop lights with your 17, 18s, 19's, or 20's

2. It's a cheap car that's easy and fun to customize with an already huge cult following....toyota must be doing something right.

3. I actually prefer this car to most muscle cars I've owned...I don't know why...but i do....I guess I just enjoy something that was so cheap to make cool...and I can drive everyday....instead of just the weekends....and I love it

4. Gas prices.....what more do you want....it's the best on it.....!

5. Scion people are some of the nicest people i know...I've had so many nice conversations with people giving me props and sharing views on our boxes....scion rocks!

WeeMan

11-03-2005, 06:12 AM

i understand most of the stuff you are getting at, for me the AC is fine. (guam is hot sticky, and usually around 90 plus with no shade at all)
What i don't like about the box, are easily scratched. i am super careful with this car, and already it has swirls on it! ____enmehoff! and everyone tries to race me,and flips me off in it. does my car look meacing? or is it just me?

mikem53

11-03-2005, 01:07 PM

I have an 06 and it has an interior dome light, so I don't have a problem with that. However, I agree with the sheet metal issue; the fuel tank door is paper thin (not that it really matters but it makes you wonder about the rest of the panels). Also, the ride is bouncy on anything less than smooth asphalt. Another issue I have is that I wish the wheel would telescope but I understand not including it on a car at this price point.

mikem53 if you want more stopping power just buy some after market brake pads (and stainless steel lines if that's not enough) nice z06, check out the new one

Regardless of the problems, this is a phenomenal car for the money; would you rather drive a PT Cruiser?

My 05 has a dome light too... but lighting up front is lacking...

SS brake lines don't help on the street.... it helps when you constantly use your brakes and the fluid heats up causing the rubber to expand which gives you fade. this happens with heavy track use and is not a problem with me on the Scion... I just hate working on drum brakes... when changing pads on disc is so easy.... dru brakes also dont do as well with ABS... I haven't had to try that yet.. will do so this winter..... should be interesting... Thanks for the comment on the Z...

No... I don't like the PT cruiser..... much rather have the box

hammy

11-03-2005, 01:55 PM

i wish the a/c & heat vents had a knob to close certain ones up.

thats my only complaint.

schweikhard1

11-03-2005, 02:41 PM

I bought my XB in July of this year, I loved it! I like the ride, I like the gas mileage, I liked the looks I get, I liked the fact that people always asked me about it and I could brag on it!!
BUT....... 3 days ago my AC quite working completely! I took it into the service department at the dealership, and was told that my warranty WOULD NOT cover this! They stated road debris flew through the grill and punctured my condenser, to the tune of $1000.00 for the part alone I would have to replace it!
Well number 1 the condenser is wide open to road hazzard as there is nothing between it and road debris but the grill.
So needless to say, I have been on the phone with Scion because lord knows Im not going to replace something that costs that much, when I could drive off the lot and it could happen again, and then there goes another $1000.00 in a car that is only 4 months old!
There answer to me was well we can fix it so this doesn't happen again!!!! Then why wasn't it fixed in the 1st place so I wouldn't have to fork out $1000.
Well they will get there answer from me as I have hired and attorney, and intend to follow this through until they pay for this! I mean the dealership told me that the condenser is $1000 I called around and everywhere quoted me about $300-$400. When I told the dealership this they actually had the nerve to tell me if I put parts on it other than official Scion parts I would void my warranty!!! Well is my warranty worth anything anyway?
Just wanted to vent and also inform the XB owners how vulnerable your AC condenser is!
Am I wrong in my anger?

svt_to_xb

11-03-2005, 03:20 PM

schweikhard1

11-03-2005, 04:30 PM

schweikhard1

11-03-2005, 04:32 PM

Oh yeah and I work for a law firm so it costs me nothing.

svt_to_xb

11-03-2005, 04:54 PM

Oh yeah and I work for a law firm so it costs me nothing.

sorry to hear, this is the first case I've heard of this. I hope you can get this resolved. I'm just trying to help.

4est

11-03-2005, 06:09 PM

4est

11-03-2005, 06:19 PM

I tried that and I got "unfortunatly we can't help you". My point is why should I drive a car that after 3 months cost me $1000 and I could leave and it could happen again, and cost me another $1000. Equipment that important should be better protected.

I hate to hear this happened to you but ... it's called dumb luck. Most any car can be damaged by flying debris. Scion can't be held any more responsible for road debris than they can for a racoon ( http://scionlife.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=90196 ). That poor guy only had his xB for one day and 50 miles. Lick your wounds and move on.

hotbox05

11-03-2005, 06:50 PM

hotbox05

11-03-2005, 06:52 PM

oh and 4est my last car was a 1987 supra that always had problems. and if the motor wasnt dead i'd gladly keep driving it...

GLN305

11-03-2005, 06:55 PM

1- Power... I would gladly give up a mpg or two for more useable power. Power to merge, climb hills are nice to have

2- Thin sheet metal... Looking hard at the box can cause a dent.. Since the panels are tall, they should be beefier... just push on a panel and see for yourself... not too hard though..

3- Interior lighting... Are they having a bulb shortage in Japan? You can't see poop at night.. especially on the drivers side. The cruise control is also worthless in the dark.

4- Noisey.. Too much engine drone.. I like mechanical sounds... but the xB has some ugly sounds entering the cabin.. They could have used more insulation in the firewall area and made it a nicer place to be.

5- Weak AC... It works.. but can take forever to cool things down on a warm day... The weakest AC of any car around. The fix doesn't help much either.

6- Bouncy ride.. seems like they could have made the rear less stiff. The ride is good for the most part.. but they could have engineered a less stiff ride and still maintained good handling... My Z06 rides better and its very stiff.

7- Cheap butt plastic dip stick.. Why not provide a metal stick that won't warp, harden and break with time.

8- Drum brakes.. Geeezz.. I thought these things went the way of the Dodo bird along with carburators and vapor lock..

9- Paint.. It looks good... but it doesn't hold up very well... its like it doesn't stick good.. A floating piece of styrofoam will cause it chip..
I know the new paints are water based... but I don't have these issues with my other cars..

10- People asking me when do the Klowns come out....

My opinions:

1 Power- Lacking, but adequate for an economy car. If ya think the box has good power, come to Germany and drive it at 80-85 for 3 hours and see how you feel then..hehe.

2- Thin sheet metal- Aren't all cars this way these days? I know my 2000 Dakota R/T TRUCK was.

3 Interior Lighting - A must fix.

4 Noisy - Yeah, I;m buying some sound deadening and fix that too.

5 Weak AC - Came to Germany from TX and yes the A/C wasn't enough in TX, but fine for Germany.

6 Bouncy Ride - Front is Bad Rear is worse...welcome Eibach springs into that situation soon!

7 Cheap Butt Plastic Dip Stick - Wife had a Nissan Sentra and Aunt had a toyota Corolla both with plastic dipsticks that broke off. Need some metal in there.

8 Drum Brakes - Braking is OK, upgrade the front to slotted/Cross drilled life will be good.

9 Paint - Not good....5 rock chips, less than 10K miles.

mikem53

11-03-2005, 06:57 PM

Anyone who is complaining about power, noise, poor brakes and such, needs to wake the hell up. Find a car that is about 20 years old and is a POS on its last leg. Drive that car for a couple years. Then you will appreciate how incredibly nice the xB really is. I'm so pleased with the xB, it might as well be a Bentley.

I am awake, thank you... I have every right to complain about power when there isn't enough at times when I need to merge safely. I know this is not being touted as a sports car, but it should have enough power to do normal traffic maneuvers.
I didnt buy a 20 year old car... I bought a new xB. I do like the car but it does lack some basic features that would make it even better.

matt_a

11-03-2005, 07:11 PM

We have a xA and a xB. I love them both. The only thing I've noticed about the xB, is when you shut the doors, it sounds very tinny and cheap compared to when I shut the door to my xA. The xA has a much more solid sounding "Thunk".

svt_to_xb

11-03-2005, 07:12 PM

svt_to_xb

11-03-2005, 07:17 PM

mikem53

11-03-2005, 07:21 PM

mikem53

11-03-2005, 07:27 PM

svt_to_xb

11-03-2005, 07:36 PM

svt_to_xb

11-03-2005, 07:38 PM

mikem53

11-03-2005, 07:44 PM

trust me folks, there are alot worse cars for the money. I think I test drove alot of them. find me another car for around 14,500 with all these power options. Traction control, abs and stability control. You won't. I think instead of hate we should say dislike. Most cars can be improved apon. fix, all those problems you hate and the car would cost you double. Enjoy it for what it is, not what it isn't.

I agree... but I would gladly give up VSC for more power, or better sheet metal. You are correct... it should say dislike, not hate... Overall.. its a great econobox...

thanks for the acknowledgement. If you really think about it, whats the benifit to thicker sheetmetal?

Would not dent as easy, more rigidity (unibody), less tinny sound. better in crashes..

mikem53

11-03-2005, 07:49 PM

svt_to_xb

11-03-2005, 07:50 PM

svt_to_xb

11-03-2005, 07:57 PM

mfbenson

11-03-2005, 08:12 PM

schweikhard1

11-03-2005, 08:14 PM

I wish that I could but the more I investigate the more upset I get, I now find out that my dealership is charging me $350 more than the 2 other surrounding dealerships. Wow talk about icing on the cake. Those dealerships also put me in contact with some of their customers and when things like this happened to them, they were given the parts at employee price and a discount on labor! Wow and I get a bill thats $300 to much. I know, my problem must lie with the dealership when it comes down to it. But if I keep having to replace $1000 parts then my cheap little car becomes a huge money pit! Thanks for the sympathy, it is nice to just be able to vent!

mikem53

11-03-2005, 08:25 PM

1- Power... What are you hauling? Mine has plenty of power.

8- Drum brakes.. 60 to 0 stopping distances are phenomenal, what more do you want?

.

Plenty of power? compared to what? , moped...

Phenomenal brakes? You're kidding right?

Motorweek says 136 feet for 60 to 0, which they call a "solid performance". As for power, you had it in the context of enough power to get up hills, and I've driven mine up a 40 degree grade with no problem. I imagine if you were hauling something near the weight capacity of the vehicle it might be a problem, but for driving up normal hills the power is "plenty".

http://www.mpt.org/motorweek/reviews/rt2303a.shtml

What speed did motorweek use to test the brakes.... 30 mph? The brakes are far from being phenomenal.. and the accel results are nothing to write home about.... especially in real world use with more than just a driver... Sure I can make it up hills... but having to merge or speed up to change lanes can be a challenge at best.

From C&D

C/D TEST RESULTS

ACCELERATION (Seconds)

Zero to 30 mph: 3.5
40 mph: 5.4
50 mph: 7.8
60 mph: 10.6
70 mph: 15.0
80 mph: 20.9
90 mph: 29.0
Street start, 5-60 mph: 11.1
Top-gear acceleration, 30-50 mph: 5.5
50-70 mph: 8.0
Standing 1/4-mile: 18.2 sec @ 75 mph
Top speed (drag limited): 103 mph

BRAKING
70-0 mph @ impending lockup: 200 ft

HANDLING
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.75 g
Understeer: minimal moderate excessive

mfbenson

11-03-2005, 08:34 PM

They stated road debris flew through the grill and punctured my condenser, to the tune of $1000.00 for the part alone I would have to replace it!

Am I wrong in my anger?

Yes. Call your insurance company. You had a collision with road debris.

mikem53

11-03-2005, 08:34 PM

mikem53

11-03-2005, 08:36 PM

mfbenson

11-03-2005, 08:54 PM

From C&D

C/D TEST RESULTS

ACCELERATION (Seconds)

Zero to 30 mph: 3.5
40 mph: 5.4
50 mph: 7.8
60 mph: 10.6
70 mph: 15.0
80 mph: 20.9
90 mph: 29.0
Street start, 5-60 mph: 11.1
Top-gear acceleration, 30-50 mph: 5.5
50-70 mph: 8.0
Standing 1/4-mile: 18.2 sec @ 75 mph
Top speed (drag limited): 103 mph

BRAKING
70-0 mph @ impending lockup: 200 ft

HANDLING
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.75 g
Understeer: minimal moderate excessive

Ok, to put it in context here's C/D's numbers on the tC:

C/D TEST RESULTS

ACCELERATION, Seconds
Zero to 30 mph: 2.4
40 mph: 3.8
50 mph: 5.3
60 mph: 7.4
70 mph: 9.7
80 mph: 12.6
90 mph: 16.4
100 mph: 20.9
110 mph: 28.4
Street start, 5-60 mph: 8.0
Top-gear acceleration, 30-50 mph: 8.5
50-70 mph: 9.0
Standing 1/4-mile: 15.7 sec @ 88 mph
Top speed (governor limited): 127 mph

BRAKING
70-0 mph @ impending lockup: 179 ft

HANDLING
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.81 g
Understeer: minimal moderate excessive

The xB is actually one second FASTER in 50 to 70 (which is really hard to believe, I'd think I'd know since I own one of each, but whatever) and its 70 to 0 is 21 feet longer. Still, that's only 10% worse than the tC, and while the tC is no Z06 either, it is at least sporty enough to say its a sport coupe with a straight face.

In fact, I can't believe that 9.0 figure for 50 to 70 in a tC. That's got to be a typo or something. I'll time it tonight on the highway on my way home. I'm convinced its got to be a lot shorter than that.

edit: ^^^ DUH! its "top gear" acceleration, no downshifting allowed. Well of course its a dog in top gear, that one's for economy not speed.

I should really learn how to read sometime.

:P

svt_to_xb

11-03-2005, 09:02 PM

1 too slow. , doesnt respond well at all to mods... i knew it wasnt a speed demon but i figured it'd respond to mods liek a honduh does but NOPE

2 cheap horrible paint

3 ac is pretty damned weak

4 they're becoming the newest ricer mobile

5 gas mileage is hard to keep consistent whether it's high or low... my best mpg runs lately have been on a 180 mile roadtrip with an average speed of 90 believe that.....

6 honduh forkers laughing..

7 worst clutch ever.... toyota didnt realize with quicker gearing , more weight and a more enthusiast based demographic that theyre cheap echo carryover parts wouldnt hold up.... nothing like a 800+ dollar clutch job to see that it doesnt happen again... hell my clutch started slipping at 5000 MILES!!!!

8 theyre starting to get REALLY played out.... and without having more than 10k in one it will never win a show at all. let alone just street cred

9 umm....overpriced parts since it's new...

10 it's WRONG WHEEL DRIVE

Wow.. you're tough... :) I don't plan on modding for more power... its not a good platform to start with... and this engine is designed for economy, not performance. FWD sucks... but it makes cars affordable... and its good in the snow. I got an automatic since my other cars are manuals.... glad I did as I use the box for city drives and its nice to have... Thanks for your comments

If front wheel drive is so bad , why is it in your track car?

The mini is the best handling FWD car on the planet.. The steering ratio, size and weight make it a great track car. It does not exhibit the traditional plowing found in FWD cars... it has some, but its very controlled... If it had RWD, it would almost be perfect...
Try driving one sometime... its amazing when it comes to the twisties..

Thanks,but I use to have an SVT focus. Which was awesome. neither front or rear suck. They both have there advantedges.

I disagree.. when it comes to performance... RWD is the only way to go..
FWD is designed for economy and packaging... RWD costs more, adds compexity but the advantages for performance are undeniable...
While many FWD cars are performance oriented, they are confined to the llaws of physics... The front unloads the drive wheels during acceleration, they plow, torque steer limits the amount of power... and the list goes on...

Then all performance cars would be rwd. In track racing front wheel my not outdo rear wheel, but it is more stable for an ametuer racer. and they only plow and have torque steer limits if there over pushed.

mikem53

11-03-2005, 09:29 PM

svt_to_xb

11-03-2005, 09:35 PM

Tmanion

11-03-2005, 09:49 PM

"Then all performance cars would be rwd. In track racing front wheel my not outdo rear wheel, but it is more stable for an ametuer racer. and they only plow and have torque steer limits if there over pushed."

You've reached a false conclusion; not all performance cars are designed to perform optimally, as there're other factors at hand, i.e. cost, safety etc. If this weren't the case every sports car would be mid engined too.

The above poster is unable to view this argument from an objective position since he obviously has an emotional attachment to FWD i.e SVT Focus

svt_to_xb

11-03-2005, 10:57 PM

Sciond

11-03-2005, 11:50 PM

Most of the issues mentioned hera can be adressed.... I fixed in mine for a small investment....still no power house....but it handles very well with upgrades...the ac..yes the fix did not do too much...noise hell I upgraded the sound system and added an exhaust...so who hears the engine? :lalala: Like Mike stated I have other cars and I prefer this to them...I was all set to buy the RX330(wife liked it)...but I just really liked the box...still do 1yr and 27,000 miles later....to me the bottem line is for the price you can't beat it..and for a reasonab;e amount you can solve most of the issues or upgrade enough to where they are palitable........

rdclark

11-04-2005, 12:12 AM

commotoed

11-04-2005, 12:35 AM

1- power adequate, barely (just dreamin) Transplant Celica engine with awd?
2-Thin sheet metal, everything else is too! unless it's plastic
3-Interior lighting, always could use some more lights, cargo lamp?
4-Noisey, not the sweet sound of a tuned Celica awd.
5-A/C no problems across the desert in July?
6-Bouncy ride? That is what "good" shocks are for, can you say Koni?
7-Dip stick, whatever?
8-Drum brakes, plenty till the Celica engine is installed.
9-Paint, I think with the large flat panels more care and wax will be involved.
10-Opinions are like a**holes, everyones got one!

hotbox05

11-04-2005, 12:57 AM

this is not my ideal car no but it's a brand new well appointed car that will be reliable and to me is very very good looking.. i just wish it had 30 more hp and rwd would be nice. i can honestly live with fwd i just don't like it....

1epoXyBox

11-04-2005, 05:14 AM

Hiddenmickey

11-04-2005, 11:18 PM

I don't know what you are complaining about with the A/C. As long as the outside temperature is less than 60 degrees, it works fine. The brakes aren't that bad, as long as you don't have to stop right away. I questioned the dealer about the weak interior lighting and he assured me it would not be a problem during the day. People always ask me about the clowns. Clowns, clowns, clowns, clowns. I tell them I didn't get the clown option. I tell them I got the imbecile detector instead and unless they go away it will sound at any moment.

mikem53

11-05-2005, 12:10 AM