Not a Concept

Unlike some of the vehicles that will be introduced at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit that begins in 4 days, the Scion xB Release Series 6.0 (that would be the sixth xB limited edition version) is a production car – albeit one that will be available to only 2,500 buyers.

And while most of us here at LotPro.com are not big fans of the “limited edition” vehicles used by most manufacturers to, shall we say, increase the bottom line by inflating the price of the add-on doo-dads, this particular Scion variant will actually save you money if you’re looking for at least some of the options that it comes with.

Absolutely any color as long as it’s red

To begin with, this xB is available only in what Scion calls “Absolutely Red” exterior paint. Unique wheel covers (that’s right, they’re just covers) and a black-finished grille differentiate the R.S. 6.0 from your run-of-the-mill Scion Box.

Inside, the Release Series features a touch screen navigation system with Bluetooth and iPod connectivity and a 5.8 inch touch panel display. Illuminated door sills, 4-in-one interior lights, a cargo cover and special seat fabric are also part of the package.

Such a deal

MSRP for a base xB is $15,750 with a manual transmission and $16,700 for an automatic. The R.S. 6.0 package is an additional $1,743, while the rear spoiler for the R.S. package is an additional $320, plus installation (all Scion models have an additional $670 destination charge).

So what kind of a deal is this? If you delve into the Scion web site, you’ll find a custom grille for $215, a cargo cover for $259, interior and door sill lights ($299 and $290, respectively), as well as an optional navigation system that sells for $1,800. Without the unique seat trim, this brings the total a` la carte price of these items to $2,863, which means you save $1,120 if you buy into the R.S. 6.0 package – not bad at all, if this is what you’re looking for.

The Bottom Line

For those of you out there in the market for the second generation of a very versatile people and what-have-you hauler and you’re contemplating at least the navigation option, the Release Series 6.0 is a great deal, since you’ll be getting a discount on the nav system plus a few other goodies thrown in for good measure.