Used 2009 Scion xB

A high level of personalization through dealer-sold accessories has always been part of the Scion formula, but with the 2009 Scion xB RS 6.0, the company has done the customization for you. The RS here stands for Release Series, a designation Scion gives to various special editions of its vehicles, and one way it manages to keep the brand fresh without reinventing the lineup every few years. Mechanically, the RS 6.0 is no different from a normal xB, but to ensure buyers stand out in the crowd (beyond the fiery paint), Scion says only 2,500 RS models will be produced.

For $18,443 ($1,743 more than a base xB) the 2009 Scion xB RS 6.0 features a numbered dash-mounted plaque, a unique grille minus the Scion logo, Absolutely Red paint, a touchscreen Pioneer audio-navigation system (one that's not available on other xB models), illuminated red door sills and special red-and-black seats. Also included are unique wheel covers that don't look nearly as special as the other upgrades, but our xB RS 6.0 had optional 17-inch rims that added $1,595 to the price, plus the TRD lowering kit ($400) that drops ride height about 1 inch.

There are plenty of competent small cars that compete with Scion's xB but only a few direct competitors with the Release Series. The stylized Honda Element SC, new Kia Soul Sport and the Nissan Cube Krom are probably the closest, although the Element is considerably more expensive.

Scion's approach to keeping its cars fresh by allowing customization at the dealer means you won't often see two identical Scion xBs on any given street corner. In fact, that may be the main reason to get one. Still, the car's appeal is more than skin deep. With a reasonable price and Toyota quality, the boxy little car's value is undeniable. Just as with the base Scion xB, the RS 6.0's interior space and high feature content at this price point make it an excellent little car that just happens to look cool.