The 2008 Scion xB is our 2008 MotorWeek Drivers' Choice as Best of the Year. The all-new edition of the quirky right-angle compact car that propelled Toyota's youth brand to success, is now the perfect all-around family car for most day-to-day suburban duties, from school drop-offs, to grocery pickups, where a larger utility is just plain overkill.

The 5-door Scion xB has many virtues. Its laundry list of assets includes styling, which retains the xB's unique shoebox-on-wheels look, but smoothes out all the edges, to give it a more shaved shape.

This slicker box sits on a new chassis that stretches the wheelbase by 4-inches and overall length by a full foot. Which means a more useful interior for both people and bulky cargo. Cabin highlights included a trendier dash panel with its row of round instruments, and relaxed lounge-like seating.

Shortcomings in standard equipment are fixed, with everything from cruise control, to steering wheel switch-gear, to a full compliment of airbags, standard. Plus potent audio systems that start with a 160-watt Pioneer with iPod connectivity, and climb to a top system that can download images and video clips.

Moving all this cool stuff along, is a potent new engine borrowed from the big Camry sedan. The 2.4-liter-4's output of 158 horses is a big 55 pony jump over last year. Yet, real world fuel economy is in the mid to high 20s.

So the '08 xB is a whole lot quicker in a straight line. It's also much sharper in the corners, thanks to the new chassis with standard stability and traction control, plus all-disc ABS brake. And the ride is smoother and quieter than before, too.

And don't forget the thick catalogue of Scion accessories that allows everyone to personalize their xB without breaking the bank. And with base prices staring at only $16,270, it could be one of the best car values ever!

It's no wonder the 2008 Scion xB is our MotorWeek 2008 Drivers' Choice Best of the Year.