Scion arrived in 2004, a new brand from Toyota designed to capture the interest, sales, and ultimately, loyalty of younger consumers (read: Gen Y). The first two Scion models on the market were versions of cars Americans had never seen before. The tiny xA 5-door hatchback was the least expensive, and most conventional, of the two while the diminutive xB 5-door wagon was the most popular, and intriguing, Scion model. A box on wheels with big personality, the xB attracted youthful buyers eager to customize it and make it their own, despite a rather weak 1.5-liter, 108-horsepower engine. Scion redesigned its box for 2008, adding plenty of interior space, lots more power under the hood, and more comfort and convenience features in response to customer requests. We arranged a 2009 Scion xB for a review and photo shoot because the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says it’s a “Top Safety Pick.”

Changes to the 2009 Scion xB include:

• New Stingray Metallic paint replaces Nautical Blue Metallic
• Mid-year debut of the xB Series Release 6.0 model
• Series Release 6.0 model is painted Absolutely Red
• Other Series Release 6.0 features include a unique grille, differentiated wheel covers, a body-color rear roof spoiler, special interior lighting, unique interior trim, and color-coded seat fabric
• Series Release 6.0 touchscreen Pioneer navigation system includes flash memory, voice recognition, MSN Direct service, Bluetooth, USB port, SD card slot, iPod connectivity, and pre-wiring for satellite and HD radio. When the xB’s transmission is in Park, it can play DVDs and iPod videos.
• Only 2,500 Series Release 6.0 models were produced. Comes with numbered holographic badge.

The 2009 Scion xB is sold in what the company refers to as “monospec,” which means it comes one way from the factory and accessories are added on by the dealership. According to Scion, buyers need only choose a paint color and transmission. Air conditioning, cruise control, a 160-watt audio system with iPod connection and an auxiliary input jack, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power windows, power mirrors, dark tinted rear glass, rear defroster, and a tilt steering wheel with stereo controls are all included as standard equipment. The xB also comes with a sport-tuned suspension, side mirrors with integrated signal lights, projector beam headlights, a rear wiper, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, a first-aid kit, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, and an armrest for the driver’s seat.

The only variation from this “monospec” method of equipping the xB is the occasional limited production model, dubbed “Series Release.” In 2009, Scion built 2,500 examples of the xB Series Release 6.0, painted Absolutely Red and equipped with numerous cosmetic enhancements to help it stand apart from the crowd. It even comes with its own numbered holographic badge. Aside from cosmetic differences, the main benefit of getting the Series Release 6.0 is the touchscreen Pioneer navigation system which includes flash memory, voice recognition, MSN Direct service, Bluetooth, a USB port, SD card slot, iPod connectivity, and pre-wiring for satellite and HD radio. When the xB’s transmission is in Park, this infotainment system can also play DVDs and iPod videos.

A perusal of the Scion website indicates that the xB owner can do serious damage to the wallet by adding aftermarket parts and accessories to the car, but then, that’s always been a part of the xB’s appeal. This is an easy ride to customize. Among the numerous features available for the xB are a navigation system, dual headrest video screens for rear seat passengers, a variety of interior lighting options, 19-inch Toyota Racing Development wheels, and numerous performance upgrades to make the xB go faster, handle better, and stop sooner.

The 2009 Scion xB is equipped with a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine making 158 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm, driving the front wheels through a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission with sequential manual shifting. According to the EPA, the Scion xB is rated to get 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway regardless of transmission choice.

Our review vehicle was equipped with an automatic transmission and averaged 22.9 mpg in mixed driving. Combined with the xB’s standard 14-gallon fuel tank, this actual fuel economy figure results in an approximate 320-mile range between fill-ups of regular unleaded. Notably, Scion provides free servicing at the 5,000- and 10,000-mile intervals.

Standard safety equipment on every 2009 Scion xB includes dual front airbags, side-impact airbags for the front seat occupants, and side curtain airbags for both rows of seats. Additionally, the xB comes standard with four-wheel-disc ABS, with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist; a stability control system; and traction control.

J.D. Power and Associates says the 2009 Scion xB competes against other compact SUVs, such as the Chevrolet HHR, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Honda Element, Jeep Compass, and Subaru Forester. JDPower.com would also include models such as the Dodge Caliber, Kia Soul, Pontiac Vibe, and Toyota Matrix as direct competitors for the xB.