Date:         Fri, 28 Nov 2003 15:39:48 EST
Reply-To:     BenTbtstr8@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Ben T <BenTbtstr8@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Re: (NVC) Scion xB
Comments: To: azsun99@EARTHLINK.NET
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"

In a message dated 11/28/2003 10:36:03 AM Pacific Standard Time,
azsun99@EARTHLINK.NET writes:
Has anyone looked at the Toyota Scion xB, The boxy one, available only in
California
for now, I believe?
Is it larger than the Hxxxx Elements?
Any comments?
Jerry,

The Scion xB and xA are NOT called Toyotas in this country. "Scion" is a new
division within Toyota.

Both of these models are essentially what was the Toyota Echo. The Echo was
Toyotas model designed for the 20-something set. It failed woefully in that
market segment. So Toyota decided to clothe them in younger sheetmetal and form
the Scion to market them.

Like the Honda Element, they were right on target. Wrong target though. Most
Scion buyers are 40 something guys who like things like Vanagons.

I saw a super fancy xA doodad up in bright yellow paint, carbonfiber body
modifications, huge wheels/tires and a massive sound system. I watched the crowd
at the SF International Autoshow around their stands last Wednesday. (The show
is on until Sunday). Anyway, just about every single person there looked not
20-something but HAVE a child who is 20-something. The younger crowds were
eyeing the offerings from Audi. Not much action in the other stands either. Who
knows maybe that will change this weekend.

I have seen lots of the xB's running around in the SF area. I know a guy who
personally owns one. He loves it. Uses it for his automotive detail business.
Looks cute in a quirky sort of way. Lot's of the xA's running around too. That
shorter wheelbase makes it look minuscule compared to the xB.

BenT
Vanagon Cafe