2004 Scion xB

It took us several years, but the styling of the boxy Scion xB has finally warmed up to us at hi-mpg.org.

While it cannot be described as beautiful, it can be described as both cool, different, and fun. With its round wheel arches and very short overhangs, it can even be described as sporty. And while it could certainly be labeled a “box”, few will accuse it of being a mere “econobox.”

Indeed, it looks nothing like the Honda Civics or Volkswagen Rabbits of yore. It has been suggested that its styling was inspired by the now-defunct Chevy Astro van, which had something of a cult following in Japan. Whatever the case, we think it is a lot cooler than an Astro, all while being able to hold almost as much stuff.

In fact, as it has more cargo than just about every car on hi-mpg.org’s list, we give it a 10 for utility. The amazing thing is despite its cargo capacity, it gets an EPA rating of 35 mpg on the highway! For these reasons, the Scion xB is a true Hot Green Machine.