Autoblog

Customize a Scion, make it out of paper [w/video]

Jonathon Ramsey — Fri, 14 Dec 2012 19:02:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Scion, Toys/Games, Design/Style

Shin Tanaka is a "Japanese artist, graffiti writer, paper toy creator, designer" with Kennedy Center credentials - his Paper Shaper sneakers are especially popular. Scion has done a DIY collaboration with Tanaka that can get you every one of Scion's five models as a Paper Shaper.

There are two ways to get in on the auto origami, the first being to stop by the Scion booth if you happen by one of the coming season's auto shows. Since that's a lot of work and waiting to acquire a perforated sheet of paper, you can also download the Scion Paper Shaper app from iTunes. In the app you can customize your model, complete with custom paper sneakers on the custom paper base, then print it out and build it yourself.

If you have any more questions, well, the video and photos below will put it all together for you.

Continue reading Customize a Scion, make it out of paper [w/video]

Customize a Scion, make it out of paper [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion xB death sentence uncertain, minor updates announced

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 08:33:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Budget, Hatchback, Scion, Toyota

The last time we discussed the Scion xB and xD, in April of this year, it was to announce a report that both models were being killed. The vice president of the brand had said, "We don't have plans for a direct xB or xD replacement," but no date was given for the termination. Turns out rumors of their deaths have been greatly exaggerated: as part of a Toyota press release that summarized feature and pricing changes for 2013, the Scion xB was included.

The 2013 hatchback (above) gets a new front bumper and lower fascia with LED lighting, and the rear end gets a black diffuser. Stingray Metallic and Elusive Blue Metallic exterior hues will disappear, Absolutely Red and Nautical Blue Metallic will take their places. Inside will be light bronze metallic and chrome accents, as well as new seat fabric and the availability of the BeSpoke Premium Audio. It increases in price by $500, the manual costing $16,800, the automatic $17,750.

The xD (inset) has been left off the list and the Scion website it still hawking the 2012 car. But 2013 xD pricing and new features were announced earlier this year, the MSRP rising by $125 to $16,500. New equipment and options includes smoked headlight covers, more airbags and a two-tone paint job.

The press release with more details and pricing changes on a range of Toyota models is just below.

Continue reading Scion xB death sentence uncertain, minor updates announced

Scion xB death sentence uncertain, minor updates announced originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 08:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion changing as brand buyers get older

Zach Bowman — Tue, 01 May 2012 08:59:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Performance, Marketing/Advertising, Scion

Toyota may seek to reposition Scion in the wake of slower sales, according to Automotive News. It's been 10 years since the Japanese automaker unveiled its youth-oriented brand, and Toyota recognizes that the original target demographic has officially grown up. After concluding a nine-month review of the Scion brand, the parent company has decided to move away from quirkiness and toward more mainstream creations.

Models like the FR-S and iQ serve more traditional buyers than the nameplate's best-selling xB, though Jack Hollis, Scion vice president, says the future of the boxy five-door remains uncertain. While speaking with Autmotive News, Hollis said the company may not replace the model with a "one-for-one" interpretation of the box as buyers are less and less interested in funky exterior designs.

Scion suffered dearly during the sales downturn of 2008 and 2009. By 2011, the company's numbers had fallen to within 25 percent of its 2006 volume. With consumer credit tightening by the day, recent college graduates have reportedly found it difficult to finance a brand-new Scion. Hollis says sales are on the mend, and the company is cautiously optimistic. In the meantime, expect to see Scion show off more mainstream marketing aimed at a wider consumer audience.

Scion changing as brand buyers get older originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 May 2012 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion xB, xD models getting the axe

Chris Paukert — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:27:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Wagon, Hatchback, Scion

Scion has long been labeled as a "youth brand," so perhaps we shouldn't be surprised to read word of parent Toyota turning over the marque's aging nameplates so quickly. According to Ward's Auto, Scion is set to kill off its xB and xD models - the first a onetime icon for the brand, the latter an econobox that never truly caught on with buyers (not unlike it's predecessor, the xA).

A model like the xB was always going to be a love-hate proposition, and indeed, the subcompact sharply divided opinion because of its its t-square styling and funky stance back when it was introduced in 2004. But enough buyers fell enough with its good qualities - remarkable space efficiency, solid fuel economy, ease-of-driving and low pricing that the xB sold surprisingly well, in the process becoming something of a totem for the brand. The second-generation model, which bowed for 2007, seemed to alter all the things that made the original so endearing: the xB grew substantially, had the uniquely sharp corners of its design chamfered off, and it gained more power without adding much in the way of performance because the vehicle had been so radically upsized. Fuel economy dipped, too, as did the xB's popularity with shoppers. Last year, Scion only moved about 17,000 examples - in its heyday, the xB sold over 60,000 units.

A couple of years ago, Jim Farley, Ford's vice president of global marketing, told Autoblog that Scion's intent wasn't to be a youth brand at all - it was to be an experimental division, an incubator for product and marketing techniques. Farley, as you may recall, was one of the driving forces behind Scion, ascending to the role of its vice president before being reassigned to Lexus. By Farley's yardstick, perhaps Scion had pushed the xB and xD as far as they could go, and now it's simply time to test new vehicular hypotheses. Indeed, more recent models like the tiny iQ and FR-S coupe show the brand experimenting in bold new directions... exactly the sort of innovation we can get behind.

Scion xB, xD models getting the axe originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion prices 2012 xB and XD Release Series models

Zach Bowman — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 16:29:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Hatchback, Scion, Design/Style

Scion has released a volley of information on the company's latest Release Series models. The 2012 xD Release Series 4.0 will come to dealers dipped in an exclusive Premium Blizzard Pearl paint with 16-inch alloy wheels as standard equipment. Inside, color-matched trim panels along the center console, steering wheel and doors echo the exterior scheme, and a set of embroidered carpet floor mats round out the upgrades inside. Scion says that the company will only produce 800 examples of the xD RS 4.0, each starting at $16,250, excluding a $750 destination charge.

In addition, Scion is also rolling out the xB Release Series 9.0. The larger five-door, which can be seen above, will only be available in bright orange Hot Lava paint, and a honeycomb lower grille and illuminated Scion badges help set the model apart from the rest of the fleet. Inside, the vehicle's seats wear perforated simulated suede seat covers with an embossed Scion logo. Scion intends to manufacture 1,500 examples of the xB RS 9.0. Expect to the vehicle to start at $18,110, excluding destination. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Scion prices 2012 xB and XD Release Series models

Scion prices 2012 xB and XD Release Series models originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pandora integration comes to the 2012 Scion xB

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 18:01:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Technology, Hatchback, Scion, Infotainment

The 2012 Scion xB will begin rolling into dealerships next month, and while there's not much in the way of upgrades to the exterior, interior or powertrain, two new stereo options are included in the boxy package.

The standard xB's Pioneer head unit is now equipped with HD Radio, allowing stations to broadcast multiple audio feeds over one frequency. If nothing's playing to suit your tastes, standard Bluetooth audio streaming is included in the package, along with hands-free phone connectivity and USB audio support for iPods, iPhones and other MP3 players.

If you opt for the new 200-watt Pioneer Premium audio system, the standard OEL screen is replaced with a 5.8-inch LCD touchscreen equipped with iTunes tagging and the ability to stream Pandora internet radio directly from your iPhone.

Pricing for the 2012 xB is set at $16,300 for the five-speed manual version and $17,250 for the four-speed automatic (not including the $720 destination fee) - an increase of $300 for the manual model and $300 for the automatic. Full details in the press blast after the break.

Continue reading Pandora integration comes to the 2012 Scion xB

Pandora integration comes to the 2012 Scion xB originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Scion commissions video game-inspired xB

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 20:28:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Scion, Specialty, Design/Style

Giant Robot Scion xB - Click above to watch the video after the break

In late 2009, Scion turned over one of its xB box-wagons to Giant Robot magazine publisher Eric Nakamura, and the result is way cooler than any Release Series Scion xB the company has ever turned out. After all, how could you possibly not love a customized car that was inspired by Japan's Nintendo Famicon Gaming System and its eight bits of raw processing power?

Awesome features abound, such as the doors that are operated by big red buttons reminiscent of the ones used on Nintendo's 80's-era game controllers, each of which is programmed to make its own period-correct sound. The whole shebang is powered by its own video game cartridge, and there are game controllers in each of the two front seats that allow the passengers to play video games projected from the left front headlight.

Rear-seat passengers needn't worry, as they get their own separate lounge complete with controllers and a rear-mounted projector. Perhaps best of all, the car is completely operational - once the correct cartridge is inserted, naturally - and it was road tested once before going on display. Do yourself a favor and check out the video after the break.

[Source: YouTube via Kotaku]

Continue reading Video: Scion commissions video game-inspired xB

Video: Scion commissions video game-inspired xB originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 20:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2010: 2011 Scion xB Release Series 8.0 dabbles in Voodoo

Jeff Glucker — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 14:27:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Wagon, Crossover, Scion, Toyota

LA 2010: 2011 Scion xB Release Series 8.0 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Just as the sun always sets in the west, we can always count on a limited-edition Scion xB to pop up at a North American auto show. This year, that honor falls on the 2010 LA Auto Show and the Scion in question is the 2011 xB Release Series 8.0. Surprise!

Standing out on the show floor thanks to its brilliant VooDoo Blue paint job, the 2011 Scion xB Release Series 8.0 is the latest in a line of low-run examples of the boxy, compact wagon. Scion is producing just 2,000 units of the xB RS 8.0, and all of them feature an aggressive front fascia and RS 8.0 logos throughout the interior. The TRD wheels are also available but as an optional extra.

Pricing is set at $18,405 for the manual transmission-equipped xB or $19,355 for the auto gearbox. That price also features a power tilt-and-slide sunroof, which, along with the VooDoo Blue paint, is not available on the standard xB. Check out our high-res image gallery of live shots below and the full set of details after the break.

Gallery: LA 2010: 2011 Scion xB Release Series 8.0

Photos copyright (C)2010 Jeff Glucker / AOL

[Source: Scion]

Continue reading LA 2010: 2011 Scion xB Release Series 8.0 dabbles in Voodoo

LA 2010: 2011 Scion xB Release Series 8.0 dabbles in Voodoo originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Nov 2010 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Consumer Reports picks best cars for teens and seniors

Zach Bowman — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 13:59:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Budget, Minivan/Van, Sedan, SUV, Safety, Hatchback, Acura, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Nissan, Subaru, Luxury

Consumer Reports picks the best cars for teens and seniors - Click above for high-res image gallery

The car-savy folk over at Consumer Reports have released a new list of its best picks for vehicles suited for teens and seniors. The group suggests parents looking to send their teens off to school with a newer vehicle should try to avoid the common misstep of assuming that a larger SUV is safer than its smaller, more efficient counterparts. Instead of opting for a heavy roller, Consumer Reports suggests that parents look toward cars with standard traction control and side curtain airbags - cars like the Mazda 3, Scion xB, Honda Accord or Nissan Rogue.

Meanwhile, the publication points to a number of models for seniors that offer good visibility and easy access, including the Honda Odyssey, Hyundai Azera and Subaru Forester XT Limited. As you might expect, CR notes that each of the vehicles on the list can boast at least average reliability and carry the publications' Recommended label.

Interestingly enough, the only vehicle that Consumer Reports recommends for both driver types is the Honda Accord. Check out our galleries of the winners below and hit the jump to peruse the full press release.

Gallery: Consumer Reports Best Cars for Teens

Gallery: Consumer Reports Best Cars for Seniors

[Source: Consumer Reports]

Continue reading Consumer Reports picks best cars for teens and seniors

Consumer Reports picks best cars for teens and seniors originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion xB restyled and repriced for 2011

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 17:29:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Budget, Hatchback, Scion

2011 Scion xB - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Scion brand's poster car, the boxy xB, gets a freshened face for the 2011 model year, as well as some minor interior upgrades. Overall, the exterior changes give the econobox a more aggressive appearance - a good thing, since the second-generation xB wasn't appealing to the young, hipster crowd nearly as much as the automaker would have hoped. (We much prefer the first-generation car, for what it's worth.)

Up front, the revised fascia features slightly redesigned headlamps, as well as a honeycomb grille and larger outer vents on the bumper. Around back, the single rear backup lamp has been integrated into the taillamps, which cleans up the car's back end rather nicely. Other cosmetic changes include the addition of two new metallic paint colors - Army Rock and Elusive Blue.

Moving inside, the xB's front seats have been given more bolstering for better overall comfort and support. Additionally, a new center console has been added that offers better storage solutions, as well as a sliding armrest, and the steering wheel now offers with both tilt and telescope adjustments (a simple feature that we wish were standard fare on every make and model).

Pricing for the new xB starts at $16,000 for the manual transmission model and $16,950 if you prefer a conventional automatic - increases of $150 over the 2010 car. The 2011 xB will make its way to a Scion dealer near you later this month. Hit the jump to read Toyota's official press release, and click through our attached gallery to see dozens of high-res shots of the new xB.

Gallery: 2011 Scion xB

[Source: Scion]

Continue reading Scion xB restyled and repriced for 2011

Scion xB restyled and repriced for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Scion to get stronger Stateside focus, two new models

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Scion

2009 Scion tC - Click above for high-res image gallery

Despite the fact that Scion is a uniquely American invention for Toyota, only one of its current models - the rapidly aging tC coupe - was actually designed here in the States. Perhaps it shouldn't come as too big a surprise, then, that U.S. Scion sales are down by 49-percent compared to 2008 levels.

According to Automotive News, Yoshi Inaba, president of Toyota Motor North America, says that's all set to change in the near future as the youth-oriented Japanese brand draws up two new models that will be heavily influenced by American tastes. We certainly hope that doesn't mean bigger and unnecessarily bloated like the second-generation xB.

A redesigned tC model will reportedly come first, followed by the Scionized version of the mini-me Toyota iQ. Inaba didn't give any sort of timetable on new model launches and even said that the automaker hasn't yet determined what new vehicles will come after what's currently scheduled.

Whatever comes our way, it seems that we should expect Scion to continue marketing to a young audience. To that end, the company will continue to focus on innovative new technologies that will boost "connectivity," though that could have a number of differing meanings. We'll see what Toyota has in mind soon enough, as the redesigned tC is scheduled to go on sale later this year.

Gallery: 2009 Scion tC

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd.]

Report: Scion to get stronger Stateside focus, two new models originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Jan 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0 limited to 2,000 copies

Frank Filipponio — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Hatchback, Scion

Scion xB Release Series 7.0 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Just yesterday we shared with you some pics of and specs on the latest Scion Release Series, the xB 7.0. It's a tradition of sorts for Scion to come out with a new Release at the LA Auto Show. For this go-around, Scion seems to have been indulging in some fermented grapes, as the bloody thing is painted Murasaki! That would be purple for those of us not fluent in Japanese. Well, we have just one thing to say now that we've seen it in person, we're glad it's going to be limited to just 2,000 units.

It's not so much the underlying xB, or the DAMD body kit, or the custom stitching on the interior. It's not the TRD springs for sure, and the new exhaust tips aren't that bad. It's just that when the whole thing is swathed in purple, we can't get past the color. In any case, you can check out the high-res gallery below and the press release after the jump and judge the 7.0 for yourself.

Gallery: LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0

Gallery: Scion xB Release Series 7.0

Continue reading LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0 limited to 2,000 copies

LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0 limited to 2,000 copies originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Square Deal: Nissan releases complete Cube pricing, Krom to start at $20,065

Chris Paukert — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 16:26:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Budget, Hatchback, Nissan

Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Nissan Cube and Cube Krom

While Nissan revealed preliminary pricing on its new Cube compact earlier this month at the Chicago Auto Show, it has now released more figures for the entire lineup, and it is launching a pre-order website today, too.

As noted earlier, the Cube will start at $13,990 for a base 1.8-liter model with a six-speed manual transmission. The midline 1.8 S model will command $14,690 in manual and $15,690 in Xtronic CVT configuration, while the uplevel SL (available only with the Xtronic) will command $16,790. The top-shelf Krom, also an automatic-only proposition, is pegged at $19,370. All of the aforementioned prices do not include destination charges, so be sure to tack on an additional $695 in your calculations. For comparison's sake, Scion's larger xB will set you back a minimum of $16,420 (including destination), versus $14,685 in-your-garage for a Base Cube S.

For more information including details on standard equipment, please check out the official press release after the jump. If you're interested in speccing out or reserving a Cube with such eccentricities as 20-color interior illumination or dashboard shag, click here. Initial Cube shipments are expected to hit dealers in early May.

Gallery: Chicago 2009: Nissan Cube and Cube Krom

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Square Deal: Nissan releases complete Cube pricing, Krom to start at $20,065

Square Deal: Nissan releases complete Cube pricing, Krom to start at $20,065 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion sales are down, brand image in flux

Chris Shunk — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 19:28:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Scion, Toyota

Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2008 Scion xB.

My older brother Brian drives a Scion xD. He's 39 years old, and probably considered anything but cool by 18-24 year-old standards. He bought his little xD because he was tired of filling up his AWD 2001 Chevy Astro conversion van, and he's gone from getting 12 mpg to about 30. While that's a big-time win for Scion sales, the brand's marketing arm has to cringe. Scion was built to be Toyota's youth-oriented brand, with cars that would finally bring younger buyers into the Toyota showroom. The early days of Scion were a boon, with 80% of Scion buyers having never shopped Toyota before. Young people were clamoring for the xB and tC, and 100-200k online shoppers flocked to the Scion site each month.

Only a year after the redesign of the xB and xD, the Scion site is seeing less than half the traffic. Overall, year over year sales fell for 17 strait months until March, when gas prices skyrocketed. Even then, sales were back down by June, which was the peak of high fuel prices. The problems began to surface when the redesigned Scions were little more than larger versions of their former selves. A larger xB became more attractive to the mother of two, while losing some of the edginess that made it a smash hit with teens and early-20-somethings.

Scion's leadership would like to turn the tide by creating a fourth member of the Scion family that exudes cool for under $20k. It could be an SUV or a hybrid, but Scion execs want it to be free from the grasps of the parent company. The current models also have to be refocused to once again attract the coveted 18-30 crowd. That's a tall order, and a lot of work for a brand that's only five years old.

Gallery: 2008 Scion xB

Gallery: 2008 Scion xD

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Scion sales are down, brand image in flux originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Aug 2008 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion's newest ad campaign puts reader's rides on billboards

Michael Harley — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 17:32:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Budget, Contests, Hatchback, Scion

Scion owners recently submitted pics of their personalized vehicles, including tC, xA, xB, and xD models, to the company for evaluation. The loyal owners were participating in Scion's "United by Individuality" brand campaign, designed to put individuals' modified vehicles in magazines, on billboards, even projected onto movie screens. More than 300 cars made the cut, and they soon found themselves in the Nevada desert for a photo shoot that included racing, tuning events, and even music performances. Shown above is a stunning aerial shot of more than 200 cars parked - very well we might add - at the event. The ad campaign launches in movie theaters July 21, while the other media won't go live until August 4th.

[Source: Edmunds Inside Line]

Scion's newest ad campaign puts reader's rides on billboards originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 31 Jul 2008 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion prices the 2009 xB and tC. Tacks another $100 onto the box.

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 17:31:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Coupe, Crossover, Scion

Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Scion xB.

Scion announced pricing for the 2009 xB and tC today, and if you want to get your hands on the love-it-or-hate-it toaster on wheels, you'll have to pony up an extra $100 this year. The xB's base price is now $16,370 (including shipping), and comes equipped with a five-speed manual as standard equipment. If you can't stand swapping your own cogs, you can shell out another $950 for a four-speed automatic. The tC's price remains the same as the 2008 model, starting at $17,620 with a five-speed manual and $18,420 for the four-speed auto 'box. Sales of the xB begin this month and the "slightly tweaked" tC will arrive in May.

Scion's press release is available after the jump.

Gallery: 2009 Scion xB

Gallery: 2009 Scion tC

Continue reading Scion prices the 2009 xB and tC. Tacks another $100 onto the box.

Scion prices the 2009 xB and tC. Tacks another $100 onto the box. originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Apr 2008 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: 2007 Scion xB In the Autoblog Garage

Dan Roth — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 12:03:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Videos, Scion, Toyota

click above to watch video

Here's a little something we've been cooking up for a while. We've seen your cries for more video reviews, and it's on our minds, too. We've been trying to bring you more video in a lot of ways lately; Chris Shunk recently walked us through the new Grand Caravan, and Damon and Sam shot some video when they went to visit Tesla to drive the Roadster. You can visit our YouTube Channel to see just how many videos we've been producing lately.

We decided to try our hand at producing an In the Autoblog Garage new car review on video, and you'll find our results after the jump. Let us know what you think of our first video review, which stars the 2007 Scion xB, as we hope to make it a regular feature. Also check out Sam Abuelsamid's review of the 2007 Scion xB in written form.

Gallery: Review: 2008 Scion xB

Continue reading VIDEO: 2007 Scion xB In the Autoblog Garage

VIDEO: 2007 Scion xB In the Autoblog Garage originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Feb 2008 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Friday Fun: RWD Scion xB with Chevy V8 power!

Dan Roth — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 12:54:00 EST

Filed under: Tuners, Etc., Scion

click above for more high-res iamges of the V8-powered Scion xB

Forget about body kits, custom fiberglass enclosures for your woofer and LCDs in the headrests. This is the only way to make the Scion xB entertaining in our humble opinion. Oh yeah, Scion wants you to think its cars are more fun than a box of rocks, but like Flava Flav said, don't believe the hype. We'll even forgive the fact that there's a big, dumb carburetor sitting atop the Chevy-based small block. This first-generation xB is owned by a guy named Rick, who apparently knows his way around plasma cutters, nibblers and welders. It's not quite finished yet, as evidenced by the photos showing a stripped interior and lots of zip ties, but Rick's Scion is already quite the sleeper.

Peering inside the engine bay, it's the tidy dimensions of the small block FTW. A transmission hump/center tunnel had to be added, and the chassis was converted to rear-wheel drive, too. Keep in mind, this is the smaller, original xB. The overinflated second-generation would have even more space in the engine room for this sort of chicanery. There's obviously some time and money spent to give this ho-hum little box a big infusion of epic cool, and we bet that's all worth it when you can take in the looks of discongruity as you blow the doors off the unsuspecting.

[Source: Carscoop]

Gallery: V8-powered Scion xB

Friday Fun: RWD Scion xB with Chevy V8 power! originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Jan 2008 12:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion announces xB Release Series 5.0 for February

John Neff — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 15:55:00 EST

Filed under: Tuners, Wagon, Scion

click above for more high-res images of the 2008 Scion xB R.S. 5.0

Scion does this all the time - unveils a special Release Series version of a model and affixes an X.0 appendage to the name like it's a firmware update. Very hip, edgy stuff. The newest one and first special edition Scion model for 2008 is the xB R.S. 5.0. This edition's main selling point is its Gold Rush Mica paint job since it's the same color that appeared on the xB show car unveiled at last year's Chicago Auto Show. It also features a body kit by KenStyle that's tasteful enough, but the tuner vibe is totally killed by the set of exclusive Release Series wheel covers that the vehicle is wearing. This thing needs solid alloys if it wants to be taken seriously. The R.S. 5.0 is the first of the new xB models with a moonroof, however. Not much has changed with the interior except for a splash of the same Gold Rush Mica on some trim pieces and the seats.

One thing that the Scion xB R.S. 5.0 will be is exclusive, since only 2,500 will be made and priced from $15,650 for the manual and $16,600 for the automatic. The only option appears to be a rear spoiler dipped in, what else? Gold Rush Mica paint. That adds another $320 to the bottom line. The xB R.S. 5.0 will go on sale in February at your nearest Scion dealer. No need to rush, we doubt there'll be a line unless a TRD supercharger suddenly becomes an option.

[Source: Scion]

Gallery: 2008 Scion xB Release Series 5.0

Scion announces xB Release Series 5.0 for February originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Jan 2008 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA 2007 Spotlight: Making it stick like snot with Hotchkis

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 16:28:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show

When it comes to comprehensive suspension tuning, Hotchkis has established itself as a premium player for both domestic and imported performance rides. Their WRX sway bars have proven to be some of the strongest and lightest on the market (not to mention three-way adjustable), and they've constantly been ahead of the curve by offering new products for vehicles soon after they appear on the market. Unfortunately, they're not as good about keeping their website up-to-date or being able to rattle off the diameter of their sway bars when inquiring minds, well... inquire.

Regardless, by the end of 2007 Hotchkis will begin offering sway bars for the E92 BMW 335i and they've got prototype bars for the Infiniti G37, due to be on sale in the beginning of 2008. They're already offering Stage One kits (springs and sway bars) for the Volkswagen GLI and the new Scion xB, and have begun to sell sway bars for both the Mazdaspeed3 and Audi RS4.

SEMA 2007 Spotlight: Making it stick like snot with Hotchkis originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Nov 2007 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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