Scion XB vs Volvo V50

The Scion XB is more fuel-efficient at 29 MPG combined, against 22 MPG for the Volvo V50. At EPA assumptions that is about $1,450 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)

Side by side

	Scion XB	Volvo V50
Complaints (NHTSA)	122	26
Most reported problem	Body & structure	Engine
Crashes and fires	21 and 2	0 and 0
Typical mileage at complaint	57,000 miles	61,000 miles
Recalls	1	3
Fuel economy, combined	29 MPG	22 MPG
City and highway	27 and 32	19 and 27
Yearly fuel cost (EPA)	$2,300	$3,750

What the numbers say

NHTSA has 122 complaints for the Scion XB and 26 for the Volvo V50. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.

Safety recalls on file: 1 for the Scion XB, 3 for the Volvo V50.

Work out the fuel cost of each on your own mileage