The Scion xB has scored a direct hit in the Gen Y market and become a major sales success for this new brand. For 2006, the xB - like all Scion models - features new standard portable music player connectivity and is also available with a connection for the popular Apple iPod digital music player.
The Scion xB is now available in a wheelchair-accessible Rampvan configuration. Taking advantage of the cavernous interior and wide rear hatch opening, the Scion xB Rampvan allows wheelchair or scooter access from the rear. Unique in its segment, the xB Rampvan makes this highly customizable vehicle available to customers whose only other choice might be a larger van-type model.
The xB Rampvan conversion is produced by the Braun Corporation, the largest mobility products company in the world. This company also produces the Toyota Sienna Rampvan.
"We are especially proud that we can take personalization to another level with the Scion xB Rampvan," said Mark Templin, vice president, Scion. "With the xB Rampvan, Scion now offers one of the most affordable wheelchair or scooter accessible mobility conversions on the market today."
Through the Scion Mobility Program, the company provides cash reimbursement of up to $1,000 to eligible, original retail customers for the cost they paid to purchase and install qualifying adaptive driving or passenger equipment for transporting persons with physical disabilities.
In Tune with the Digital Lifestyle
The 2006 xB's new standard 160-watt maximum output audio system now features a centrally-located volume control knob and a mini-jack port located in the center console that allows for connectivity to most portable music players. The mini-jack port allows users to listen to their portable music collection through the xB's six
speakers.
A Pioneer AM/FM/CD head unit with iPod control is now available as an all-new accessory upgrade for all 2006 Scions. This head unit integrates track, artist and album information from the iPod into a one-line display on the head unit's screen. Connectivity is achieved by simply plugging the iPod into a port via a connector cable, providing outstanding sound quality through the car's stereo system and constant power to the iPod. Music is controlled through the head unit. The upgrade unit also features audio display color change illumination.
Both the standard and upgrade head units retain key Scion audio system features such as Scion Sound Processing (SSP) where listeners can choose from three pre-set equalizer settings, satellite radio compatibility, a user-customizable welcome screen and Sound Retouch digital equalization which provides clearer CD sound quality.
Unique Design Inspires Young Customizers
The sharp-edged xB body hunkers down low over the wheels and rises tall and wide with flat panels and 90-degree angles. Multi-reflector halogen headlamps, a chrome exhaust tip and an exterior ground effects kit that includes a front air dam, rocker panel extensions, and a rear valance panel further accent the exterior.
Aside from providing an excellent canvas for custom paint and graphics, the xB shape yields a spacious interior from minimal exterior dimensions. The xB features large door openings including a large rear fifth door hatch with an electric power release handle for easy opening to a roomy rear cargo area.
Inside, the xB driver and passenger enjoy front sport seats with tall seat height and expansive head and legroom. The second-row seats fold flat in a 60/40 configuration, providing a completely flat cargo floor. There are ample storage compartments throughout the cabin.
The interior is multi-purpose and uniquely combines class-leading materials and finish with outstanding versatility. The instrument panel is covered in a cross-grain vinyl that provides a modern look, and the center stack housing the audio and ventilation controls features metal tone trim. The speedometer and odometer are more centrally located for easy readability and feature black-on-white gauges, while auxiliary controls feature amber illumination..
As in the Scion xA, extensive use of light-weight sound absorption materials made of 100 percent recyclable thermo-plasticity-resin are used throughout the cabin, contributing to a reduction in noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).