Overview & Reviews

Since its debut, the Scion brand has won over many young buyers thanks to its trendy image and Toyota-backed reputation. However, one of its debut models, the entry-level xA, was pretty much a dud. Looking and feeling too much like a typical economy car, it was neither hip nor cool, and seemed out of place in the Scion lineup. Hoping to improve its fortunes, Scion replaced the xA with the more appealing xD.

The xD has some typical Scion advantages, including a lengthy list of standard equipment and an abundance of dealer-installed extras -- especially the audio options. But in terms of fuel economy, driving excitement, versatility and even style, the xD has been outclassed by newer subcompacts. It still remains an acceptable choice, but overall we think you'll find other top competitors to be more appealing.

Current Scion xD
The Scion xD is a four-door subcompact hatchback that comes in one trim level. The sole engine offering is a 1.8-liter four-cylinder with variable valve timing that produces 128 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque. Transmission choices include a standard five-speed manual or an optional four-speed automatic.

The generous standard features list includes full power accessories, remote keyless entry, air-conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, stability control, front seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. Since the Scion xD caters to the youth market, it also comes with a six-speaker sound system with iPod/USB connectivity and a touchscreen interface. In lieu of factory options are plenty of dealer-installed options such as larger wheels and tires, quick-shift kits, bigger brakes, lowering springs, an exhaust system and a carbon-fiber engine cover. There are also a navigation system and a premium sound system.

On the road, the Scion xD's 128-hp engine provides fairly quick acceleration for this class. The xD also feels more substantial than one might expect, a result of the car's high beltline and heavier curb weight. However, fuel economy is only mediocre for this segment, and the interior is let down by odd center-mounted gauges, a non-telescoping steering wheel (which can make taller drivers uncomfortable) and a relatively meager amount of cargo space.

Used Scion xD
The current-generation Scion xD debuted for 2008. Stability control was optional until 2010, so used shoppers would be wise to note if an individual xD is so equipped. For 2012, Bluetooth phone and streaming audio connectivity became standard, while the following year brought a minor styling refresh. There were also various audio system upgrades made through the years (specifically in regards to radio control), but otherwise the xD has been mostly unchanged.

User Reviews:

• 

  Scion Rocks - 2008 Scion XD
  By Fun car to drive - June 24 - 1:53 am

  I have driven from GA to Key West and back, its a great car to drive in city but sure above average car in the Hwy.Road Handling is great and does not feel like a small car fear factor. I own a Maxima also and closely pay attention to the quality and overall performance. Recommend this for city zip zag. Many people compare this to Honda Fit, which I think is not the right comparison due the techinal specs to start with and also road drive pleasure in this is great. But what I wish Toyota can good better is the road noise, to compensate they have a great Pioneer system which is far better than Bose which I have in Maxima. Overall a strong buy recommendation. Good Luck,

• 

  Disappointed - 2008 Scion XD
  By Cyn - June 15 - 4:40 am

  Gas mileage not what was promised. Im only getting 22.3 MPG mostly city with some highway. My old 6 cyl Mercedes got similar! The dash board rattles, sounds like theres a hornet in the car. Lots of blind spots, the rear window is like a porthole; the wide front struts and bulky side mirrors completely obscure pedestrians in crosswalks and vehicles approaching on the right. Visibility is so poor, I dont think Ill be keeping the car. Wish Id gotten the Honda Fit. Too bad, Scion.

• 

  Love This Car - 2010 Scion XD
  By Otis - May 25 - 9:00 am

  Bought this little gem about 3 weeks ago. Simply blown away on mileage (35 mpg local driving). Car has all kinds of pep and is truly fun to drive. Only thing Im disappointed in is there is no seat height adjustment. After driving a RAV-4 since 2003 (in a RAV you have a birds eye view of everything) I wound up having to purchase a seat cushion to raise me up to see a little better. Im sure in time Ill get used to sitting lower and will eventually do away with the cushion. Husband has herniated disc and is very comfortable in the passenger seat.

• 

  piece of junk - 2010 Scion XD
  By crazy bee - March 30 - 1:43 am

  It vibrates really bad no matter how bad the road is. I experience crazy spooky braking issues. I really like the fuel economy i get with this car. It really doesnt have much balls to get up and go(40mph-70mph). interior is pretty comfortable however a few more gauges would be nice. Cargo space is very limited but i think it is ok for normal everyday activities. The vehicle is low to the ground which make it very easy to get in or out.

• 

  This is the car you want - 2008 Scion XD
  By zzzdmd - March 20 - 1:53 am

  Looked @ xD, Fit, Yaris, Versa. For the money you cant beat xD. Went from Phx to Disney on one tank fully loaded with 5 people and luggage, no problem on hills, rained the whole way, at times by the bucket full, but xD stayed solid and true. Excellent interior design, clever dash, gets looks from other drivers. Will be using for work travel instead of my 2500 HD Duramax diesel, my gas savings will equal my new xD payment!

• 

  Very happy customer - 2010 Scion XD
  By k - March 9 - 10:00 am

  Ive had the car for less than a week, so I cant comment on reliability. However the controls are laid out simply. Being on the short side, I have no problems reaching the pedals. Good visibility, no huge blind spots. With less than 150 miles on the car Im averaging 35.4 mpg, which is above what they rate the car as. Its fun to drive, looks awesome, and is economical, perfect fit for me.

• 

  Bar None Simply the Best Buy - 2008 Scion XD
  By PT~2~Xd - February 21 - 3:03 am

  Gas Gas Gas! What can I say that would make a person downgrade/upgrade from a souped up 89 Toyota Supra (Vroom! problem child gas sucka)~ tricked out/ supped up 04 PT Cruiser Turbo (Ehh.. but still gas sucka!) ~ to a 08 almost tricked out but not there yet Scion XD. Moving from the Bay area to Virginia I honestly did not think I would ever trade in my PT but after experiencing the WORST commuter traffic in the USA, and VA to DC eats the cake over Marin County to Alameda County, I had to ditch the PT..=(. I test drove the Fit, Yaris, and Corolla before the XD. But the XD won in the end for gas as well as over all styling.

• 

  How does 46 mpg sound? - 2008 Scion XD
  By Tim - February 18 - 2:33 pm

  If youre looking to save gas - look no further. Ive had this car since last October. Overall mileage is in the mid 30s. Three recent trips at 55 mph on highway netted 46 mpg. (thats true mpg - not computer) One was with 4 people in the car. Going to & from work (mix of highway and city) has been about 37 mpg. I test drove everything in this type (Nissan Versa, Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Kia Rio 5, etc...), felt this was easily the best of hte bunch. Cant understand Consumer Reports love affair with the Honda Fit - rode like a 70s Ford Pinto. We recently took a trip to Branson with our family of 4 and did well - a little tight for luggage but it worked. Really love this car!

• 

  PUG-nacious - 2009 Scion XD
  By jowlyjawlessone - February 7 - 6:46 pm

  Some say "bulldog". I say "pug". Some say "entry level". I say "downsizer". Nimble "runabout", says Consumer Reports. "Most reliable in class" got my attention. Scion for the kids? If we already have experience and established identity and we forget the extras (really unnecessary with such a complete list of standard features) the xD has real value. Throw in Toyota quality. Dependable point A to B with a good dose of personality. For me it was dump a clunker, a great, old gas sucking Pathfinder SE. Im glad I found the xD. This little "pug" is going to do me well for a graceful, long-term, downsizing glide. And with luck a smooth landing. As is said, "May you live in interesting times."

• 

  I love my little xD! - 2008 Scion XD
  By genius163 - January 26 - 6:46 am

  I traded in my 2006 Volvo XC90 for the 2008 Scion xD for the gas savings. I get nearly double the gas mileage now. I still use a rear-facing car seat for my baby and it actually fits better in the back seat of the Scion than it did in the Volvo. I think it has as much to do with the shape of the dashboard as it does with the roominess of the back seat, but whatever the reason, the front passenger is always glad not have knees jammed up against the dashboard. Because the xD is tall with a high seating position, downsizing from an SUV was not nearly the adjustment I thought it would be.