Boxy cars are very much in style at the moment, and it can be tough to decide which one to actually buy.
It may help you to know that there are, in our opinion, only two that are really worthwhile: the 2016 Kia Soul, and the 2015 Scion xB.
The Nissan Cube was the other option out there, but the lack of success of this model has meant that Nissan has basically done nothing with it as of late.
It was the Scion xB that basically started the whole boxy car revolution, but the sales success that it saw when first released did not carry over to the second generation.
The same cannot be said for the Kia Soul, as it has actually improved its sales numbers with its second-generation model.
Kia went the right way with the new model by keeping the iconic look, while improving interior design, ride, and handling.
That said, you may still be lost as to which of these two vehicles is your best option. Allow us to help by breaking down the details of each one.
Kia Soul
It’s fair to say that Kia has put the emphasis on fun and drivability with the 2016 Soul, and this is a car that very definitely stands out on the road.
It helps that many of the exterior colors – Inferno Red, Solar Yellow, etc. – are hard to miss.
It is the funky features that come as part of the Soul package that have made it such a hit with the boxy car buying public.
There are 3 different trim levels available: Base, Plus, and Exclaim.
The higher end models deliver different color options, such as the interior Umber Color Package that comes with a Fathom Blue or Cloud White exterior.
This optional package also delivers Nappa leather seating surfaces, as well as gloss black wheel inserts that add a little touch of premium class.
The Base model has a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder GDI engine that delivers 130-hp under the hood.
Moving up to the Plus and Exclaim models means getting the more powerful 2.0-liter GDI engine that cranks out 164-hp mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The 1.6-liter engine is mated to a manual transmission, but automatic is available.
Scion xB
The 2015 version of the Scion xB is actually not that different from the outgoing model. The only real addition of note is a standard rear back-up camera that makes driving in reverse a little easier.
Under the hood, the 2015 model comes equipped with a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder that cranks out 158-hp.
The EPA-estimated fuel economy comes in a 22/28 mpg city/highway on both the manual and automatic transmission models.
Starting price for thee xB comes in at $17,120 for the 5-speed manual, and $18,070 for the 4-speed automatic. The prices do not include a $770 delivery and processing fee.
There are a number of standard features included, such as the Display Audio system featuring a 6.1-inch LCD touchscreen, remote keyless entry, power windows with driver side auto down, electric power steering, and 16-inch wheels offered with three standard wheel covers. There is also the option of 16- and 17-inch alloys.
The color palette for the 2015 Scion xB is as follows: Black Sand Pearl, Nautical Blue Metallic, Sizzling Crimson Mica, Army Rock Metallic, Absolutely Red, Classic Silver Metallic and Super White.
Best Boxy Car Is…
So, which one is a better choice?
That’s not difficult to guess. Both are good vehicles, but Kia Soul is a far better choice than the Scion xB (in our humble opinion).
It’s a way more modern ride that offers lots of standard safety features and premium extras. It also looks cooler and has a more premium interior with higher grade materials.
the xB could be history at the end of the 2015 model year. The xD ceased production in July 2014. The iQ is being discontinued. Toyota should just get rid of its whole Scion setup and any models that will continue just put on the Toyota logo and let it be sold at all Toyota dealers.
There is only one car which looks nice here inside and out! Kia