Nissan Rogue Vs. Honda CR-V: Compare Cars
For small families, the vehicle of choice is no longer the minivan or the SUV; it's the compact... Read More
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driving dynamics don't match the car's fun, quirky looks
the engine is a typical Toyota torque monster so the "stick or automatic?" decision is strictly personal preference
a solid performer with good handling and confident acceleration
The automatic is sometimes slow to downshift for more power.
surprisingly zippy
PERFORMANCE | 7 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
driving dynamics don't match the car's fun, quirky looks
Edmunds
the engine is a typical Toyota torque monster so the "stick or automatic?" decision is strictly personal preference
The Auto Channel
a solid performer with good handling and confident acceleration
CNET
The automatic is sometimes slow to downshift for more power.
Consumer Guide
surprisingly zippy
Winding Road
The engine is mated to a five-speed manual or four-speed sequential automatic, and the manual is the pick of the two as the combination of good shift quality, the smooth-revving big four, and solid clutch uptake make the powertrain pleasant to drive. While the automatic is just fine around town, its wide gaps between ratios become a handicap on the highway.
With front struts and a torsion-beam rear, and electric power steering, the xB is decently responsive and confident at low speeds—and of course quite maneuverable—but its weight and soft springs cause it to feel clumsy in any faster maneuvers. It's forgiving, but not exciting. Strong disc brakes haul the xB to a stop quickly, but again plenty of nosedive remind you that the standard xB makes no sporty claims.
[It should be noted that through dealerships, Scion offer a long list of dealer-installed upgrades, some of them improving cornering prowess.]
Conclusion
The 2011 Scion xB is softly sprung and feels heavier than it looks—which amounts to an unexciting driving experience.
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