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Acceleration
"Test xB did 9.8 sec 0-60 mph with slick-shifting manual transmission. Automatic
saps power, so acceleration only adequate around town, weak for merging and passing."
Value
"The xB melds hip-hop style with minivan practicality in a solid, pleasant little
wagon, bolstered by Toyota's reputation for reliability and high resale value.
It's also priced right at around $14,000 to start. But watch those options or
you could end up at over $18,000 like one of our test xBs."
Ride
"Jiggly but not uncomfortable on fast freeways, though test car bucked and bounced
over some sharp bumps and big humps. Ride hard and thumpy with dealer-available
upsized wheels and/or firmer suspension components."
Economy
"In our tests, a manual-transmission xB averaged 24.6 mpg in city/freeway driving
that included gas-eating performance runs; an automatic version logged 26.3 mpg
in normal driving. "
Noise
"Not irksome at full throttle, but only average in top-gear 60-mph cruising,
with about equal parts engine hum and tire drone. Wind rush modest for such a
bluff box of a body."
Comfort - Front
"Drivers sit higher than in most small cars and enjoy excellent visibility. Some
may wish for more seat travel and steering-wheel tilt, but tall body provides
near top hat head clearance, adult-size leg room. Seats firm, well-shaped, though
cushions a bit short for best thigh support."
Comfort - Rear
"Head room generous here, too, as is leg space even with front seats pushed far
back. But rear bench too narrow for three adults, too short in cushion and backrest.
No-strain entry/exit, despite narrow floor passages."
Controls
"Large, round dashtop gauge cluster is slightly right of driver, but easy to
read. Warning lights grouped to its right a bit small and distant. Audio unit
to right of steering wheel with climate panel below; all have large, simple controls.
Assembly, cabin materials in line with modest prices, but cloth upholstery surprisingly
classy."
Cargo Room
"Usefully cubic cargo bay, but floor just 21 inches long behind rear seat, 52
inches with seatbacks folded. Cargo floor lifts for access to spare tire and
hidden storage cubby. Rear seat has no bins for small-item storage, but front
offers assorted slots and pockets, plus three cupholders."
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