2005 Scion t2B Concept

The 2005 Scion t2B Concept, short for “Tall 2 Box,” was a daring and unconventional prototype created by Calty Design Research, Toyota’s California-based design studio. It made its debut at the New York Auto Show in 2005, having been kept completely under wraps until the moment of its unveiling. Although loosely based on the existing Scion xB, the t2B was not intended as a direct successor. Instead, it was an exploration of a more advanced, lifestyle-focused vehicle that prioritized individuality and functionality, particularly for younger drivers.

The t2B stood out for its asymmetrical design and futuristic functionality. It featured an all-new platform and measured approximately 4,100 mm in length, with a low stance that contributed to its athletic yet boxy silhouette. On the driver’s side, the vehicle sported two doors that opened in opposite directions and eliminated the B-pillar, allowing for unobstructed cabin access. In contrast, the passenger side had a single, oversized sliding door, further emphasizing the vehicle’s unorthodox design. The roof included two elongated skylights, each roughly the size of a snowboard, while narrow, horizontally stretched side windows gave the t2B a sleek, beltline-hugging profile.

Mechanically, the concept was powered by a 2.4-liter inline-four engine mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. It rode on large 20-inch aluminum wheels, which further emphasized its strong stance. A singular fog light was fitted on the left side of the front fascia, a deliberate asymmetrical choice justified by its high-lumen output, which Scion claimed equaled the performance of dual conventional fog lamps.

Inside, the cabin was conceived as a modern urban lounge. It was spacious, clean, and geared toward a tech-savvy generation. The dashboard featured three stacked digital displays, which could be color-customized to match the user’s preferences. iPod docking stations were integrated into the upper dashboard, while a video projector provided rear entertainment. Speakers were embedded in the driver’s door and designed to broadcast music outward when the doors were open, suggesting the vehicle was as much a social hub as a mode of transportation.

The Scion t2B Concept represented a bold vision of automotive design that challenged conventions in form, layout, and technology. While it never progressed to production, it remains a memorable example of Scion’s willingness to experiment and its commitment to appealing to young, forward-thinking drivers. It encapsulated the essence of early 2000s concept car culture—unrestrained by tradition and shaped by a desire to redefine how a car could look, feel, and function.