The 2008 Scion xB is powered by Toyota’s 2.4-liter inline-four engine, the 2AZ-FE, delivering about 158 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. It was available with two transmissions—a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic—depending on the trim level.
Engine at a glance
Here is a concise look at the core engine details and how they played into the xB’s everyday performance.
Engine fundamentals
- Engine: 2AZ-FE
- Displacement: 2.4 liters
- Configuration: Inline-4 (four cylinders)
- Valvetrain: DOHC with four valves per cylinder
- Power: ~158 hp at around 6,000 rpm
- Torque: ~162 lb-ft around 4,000 rpm
The 2AZ-FE is part of Toyota’s AZ family of engines and was chosen for a blend of usable power and durability in the second-generation xB. Its design emphasizes reliability and everyday drivability rather than high-performance output.
Transmission options
Two gearing choices were offered with the 2AZ-FE in the 2008 xB, affecting both drive feel and efficiency:
- Five-speed manual transmission
- Four-speed automatic transmission (with electronic control)
Both options shipped with the same engine internals, allowing buyers to pick based on preference for engagement or convenience in daily commuting.
Performance and fuel economy context
With the 2AZ-FE under the hood, the 2008 Scion xB was designed to deliver practical city-to-suburban capability rather than performance prowess. The inline-four’s torque curve is broad enough for confident acceleration in daily driving, and the drivetrain options cater to varied buyer preferences. Fuel economy, while not class-leading, sits within typical values for compact boxy hatchbacks of that era, with variations mainly tied to transmission choice and driving conditions.
Why this engine mattered for the xB
The 2AZ-FE gave the xB a reliable, easy-to-maintain powerplant with enough low- and mid-range torque to handle cargo, passengers, and weekend trips. Its widespread use across Toyota vehicles also meant readily available parts and service, a plus for owners seeking long-term ownership without surprising repair bills.
Summary
In short, the 2008 Scion xB’s engine is Toyota’s 2.4-liter 2AZ-FE inline-four, producing about 158 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. This setup underscored the xB’s emphasis on practicality, reliability, and everyday versatility.