With the demise of Nissan’s once-iconic Cube and Honda’s well-wrought Element, the 2015 Scion xB remains one of a pair of box-shaped compact wagons remaining, with Kia’s popular Soul being the other. The 5-passenger, 5-door xB, alas, remains the also-ran of the two squared-off commuter scooters, though this state of affairs is not for lack of trying. For the 2008 model year, Scion up-sized, up-powered and ostensibly improved the once super-small xB in an attempt to best its Japanese rivals. Unfortunately, results have been less than spectacular, sales-wise.

Nevertheless, the 2015 xB returns to the cube-configured compact wagon wars with a single Base trim and but a sole noteworthy upgrade: a rear-view camera that’s now standard. Available only with front-wheel drive (FWD) and offering little in the way of creature comforts or refinement, this pint-size Scion, actually a derivative of the Toyota family, does boast adult-size seating and some capable driving élan, while cargo area remains a Soul-beating 69.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

Powering the 2015 xB is a returning 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that mates with either a 5-speed manual transmission or an available 4-speed shiftable automatic transmission to put out a hefty 158 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. Mileage estimates, meantime, remain 22 mpg city/28 highway with either transmission.

As for profile perks and passenger pampering, look for the 2015 xB to sport standard 16-inch steel wheels and power-adjustable mirrors outside, while cloth upholstery, sport front seats, and full power accessories adorn the comparatively cavernous cabin. Cruise control and telescoping tilt-wheel steering also come standard in this slab-sided wagon, as do manual air conditioning, that new-for-2015 rear-view camera and Bluetooth hands-free calling. Entertainment components, meantime, remain a single-CD player complemented by 6 speakers, a USB port, and a 6.1-inch infotainment display.

Upgraded and upsized wheels are among the notable options for the 2015 xB, as are such available niceties as a sport steering wheel, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and various cargo and storage add-ons, while Scion/Toyota’s Bespoke premium audio upgrade, boasting GPS navigation as well as Aha internet radio and concierge services, also remains optional.

Toyota’s Star Safety System, finally, returns standard in this squared-off Scion and again includes 4-wheel antilock braking (ABS), as well as government-mandated traction and stability control. Additionally, front side-mounted airbags, front and rear head airbags, turn-signal-integrated mirrors and a first aid kit also return as standard safety stuff, while front fog/driving lights and a remote antitheft alarm remain optional.