Hello,
I am looking to buy an xB2.
Obviously price is a deciding factor and older xB models are cheaper.

I am struggling to find all the model year differences between base model 08 and 12 models.

I understand there were seat/center console/front and rear bumper updates between the 08/10 and 11/12 year models.

What about any mechanical differences?
Anything else?
Are the new models more reliable than older ones?

Thanks, Kevin.

 

'11-12 boxes also have an updated front (and grille) and rear bumper (dual back-ups incorporated into the tailights). Doesn't fit the currently available Five Axis lip kit and, in my opinion, the older xB2 nose looks cleaner/better and accepts Bat's black-out vinyl in the squared-off lines between grilles.

 

2008-2010 model year cons:
- No center console arm rest (thin, flimsy, and hardly reliable)
- No telescoping wheel, but it does tilt vertically
- One reverse light on the driver's side

2011-current model differences:
- Center console armrest that satisfies both front passengers
- Telescoping wheel to accommodate taller drivers
- Two reverse lights integrated into the tail lamps, reflectors standard on the bottom bumper
- Low-profile driving light in the headlights
- Redesigned front and rear bumpers
- Redesigned center gauge cluster
- Redesigned fabric seat covers


I own a 2008 xB. I bolded the features that I always wanted.

Currently, most 2008-2010 models feature the windshield creak (remedied if you follow the tutorial DIY on ScionLife) and potentially a faulty waterpump that is covered under warranty. Their are other issues, but none of them are common.

All models of the xB currently feature the A pillar creak and some have the B pillar creak.

It is to be expected when you are surrounded by plastic. Everything is easily remedied, but not everyone has these problems. There are a few lucky ones, but most of us on the forums deal with creaks from the body flexing.