I think you made a good choice. The engine-tranny combo is a good match. Of all the cars I've driven, the xB is one of the easyest to learn on. After a little while, you'll not even think about shifting- it will be natural.just picked up my 2008 BSP xB, 5speed manual. This is my first scion, second toyota, first manual. still trying to get the hang of it. i'll post some pictures in the morning.