The boxy shape of the 2009 Scion xB Base makes room for a spacious interior. This front-wheel-drive wagon seats four in two rows. Headroom measures 46 inches, and front and rear legroom clock in at 41 and 38 inches respectively. With the rear seats up, the cargo area holds 21 cubic feet, but that expands to 70 when the seats are folded flat. The 2009 xB Base sits on a Macpherson strut front and torsion beam rear suspension, powered by a 16-valve, 2.4-liter DOHC inline-four engine and choice of 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain features variable valve timing and delivers 158 hp and 162 ft-lbs of torque at 4,000 RPM, with fuel economy around 16/25 mpg.
Standard safety equipment includes traction and stability control, 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution, a front and rear stabilizer bar, and dual front-side and side curtain airbags for both rows. These earn the wagon five stars in side impact tests and four in frontal and rollover tests. Also included are 16-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires, a tire monitor, a first aid kit, mirrors with turn signals, and halogen lamps.
Full power features include remote entry and a trip computer. A tachometer, temperature readout, and two front power outlets sit up front. The leather-wrapped wheel holds cruise and audio controls. A 6-speaker sound system comes with a CD/MP3 player and iPod jack. Tilt and power steering, intermittent wipers, and a rear window wiper are also standard. Options add carbon-fiber trim, three wheel-cover choices, various lighting setups, and equipment such as a touchscreen navigation system, anti-theft device, and rear spoiler.
