Scion xB Release Series 10.0 headed for New York debut
Fri, 11 Apr 2014Toyota promises that upgraded products for Scion are on the way, with the possibility of a redesigned xB coming soon. In the meantime, fans of the boxy hatchback have to make due with the new Release Series 10.0 special edition that is debuting at the 2014 New York Auto Show. The latest limited model puts an emphasis on technology with a wireless charging mat, backup camera, projected logos and a few interior changes.
All the Series 10.0 editions come in Electric Quartz, a pearlescent white color with green highlights, and their steel wheels are covered in Tungsten Gray caps. The exterior's jade color scheme flows inside with the accent stitching on the seats and door panels. This xB is equipped with three projectors – one in the rear bumper displays the company's logo on the ground, and two inside put "xB RS 10.0" on the driver's side and the car's build number on the passenger side. (That's kind of cool, honestly.) Smaller upgrades include piano black trim around the console, illuminated door sills and lit cup holders.
The Release 10.0 edition doesn't see any mechanical changes and uses the same 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 158 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque as all other xBs, mated solely to a four-speed automatic transmission. Scion plans to build 1,500 Series 10.0 models with pricing starting at $20,420, plus a $755 destination charge. Sales begin this summer. Scroll down for the full details in the release.
Scion xB Release Series 10.0 Infused With Techie Style
April 10, 2014
TORRANCE, Calif., (April 10, 2014) – Digital design never drove so well. Scion will debut the xB Release Series 10.0 at the New York International Auto Show on Wednesday, April 16, bringing together the inspiration and functionality of modern technology.
"The xB Release Series 10.0 gets a fun, technology influence with wireless charging, a backup camera and an exclusive, modern appearance to inspire drivers," said Scion Vice President Doug Murtha. "A culture of customization and passion already surrounds the xB, and Scion is delivering this unique series to further encourage fans to make these distinctive vehicles their own."
Just 1,500 limited edition models will feature Electric Quartz paint, a pearl white with subtle green highlights. Green highlighting continues inside the xB with custom colored seats with accent stitching and door inserts. The tech-driven look is carried further with three unique projections: a Scion logo from the rear bumper to the ground, "xB RS 10.0" on the driver's side interior carpet and the sequential number of the specific vehicle projected onto the passenger side floor.
Enhancing the in-car technology, the xB Release Series 10.0 will come standard with a backup camera and conductive wireless charging. The standard Scion Display Audio System in all 2014 Scion models features a 6.1-inch LCD touchscreen, AM/FM/CD/HD Radio™ technology, hands-free phone capability, music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology and AUX/USB port with iPod® connectivity.
Other unique features in the xB Release Series 10.0 include:
Piano black interior accents on the center console, steering wheel and vent rings
Illuminated door sills with the Scion name
Custom floor mats with "xB Release Series 10.0" in white stitching
Tungsten Gray colored wheel caps
Illuminated center console cup holders
The xB RS 10.0 model will carry a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $20,420, available with an automatic transmission only. The price excludes the delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee of $755. The vehicles will be available in dealerships this summer.
By Chris Bruce
See also: Consumer Reports says these are the worst new cars of 2014, Toyota GT86, Scion FR-S sales disappointing worldwide?, J.D. Power study sees new car dependability problems increase for first time since 1998.