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:

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  Awesome value - 2009 Scion XD
  By Paul - April 29 - 1:46 am

  This car is better than I expected. I needed a gas-saving four door with room to carry dogs and sometimes haul bikes, skis and kayaks. And something fun to drive was part of the deal. I got the 5 speed and this car is a blast to drive. It pulls well with a wide power band - dont have to strain the motor much. Quality is superb. Handling is crisp. Im getting 36 mpg on the highway, about 30 overall. For a car at this price, it is a great buy. The care comes with a bunch of standard features. Im very happy with it.

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  OK for what it is. - 2008 Scion XD
  By Craig Reinehr - April 11 - 6:20 am

  I bought the car for gas mileage and ability to still haul a few things, and thats exactly what I got. It goes down the highway fine, and of course is good around town. The standard accessories are nice because its most of the things youd "add" anyhow. Disappointed in no center arm rest as a standard option, and the "XM Ready" radio is about as ready as any radio is. It cost $500 more dollars to make it ready, which is very deceiving.

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  Worth the Wait - 2009 Scion XD
  By Mick - April 7 - 11:00 am

  I ordered my car the beginning of June and had to wait 3 months for the color I wanted but well worth the wait. I had test drove the Kia Spectra, Nissan Versa and the Xd. I have a SUV also. When on Edmunds, I fell over the review for the Xd and I am so glad I did. After reading multiple reviews I test drove and ordered all in the same day. This car is peppy, much faster than what I would have thought and great on the gas mileage. I no longer get a stomach ache when pulling up to the gas station. I have had it for one month and am averaging 36-38 MPG with about 75% freeway each day. Very happy with my choice. She is so dang cute with her rear spoiler !

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  Great car, great price. - 2009 Scion XD
  By ellie - March 29 - 6:53 am

  After driving both the Honda Fit and the Scion xD I found the Scion xD more to my liking. First of all I like how high the car sits- I feel more comfortable and have a better view than in the Honda Fit. The xD handles well and has less wind noise than the Fit. The safety features are impressive and the car is comfortable to drive. In my opinion at several thousand dollars less it is a better bang for your buck than the Honda Fit.

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  New Scion xD Rocks! - 2008 Scion XD
  By joey - February 23 - 10:26 am

  Ive had the 2008 Scion xD automatic for 2 wks and it is a pure pleasure to drive! Fun in the city! It twists a lot of heads! MPG: city 28-30 mpg, on the highway, avgd 36.5 mpg. I just love driving this car. It is roomy for 4 adults. Fantastic stereo sound w/std Pioneer radio.

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  Danger - 2010 Scion XD
  By tradwnd - February 21 - 8:49 pm

  My son had an accident late in 2012. The accident was bad and the car was destroyed. None of the air bags deployed and injuries were incured. I asked Toyota/Scion to inspect the car to see if there was a problem. After months I finally got a response which basically said that the car performed as designed. I asked for a copy of the report because the answer was suspect. They told me "the bumper, grill and hood and vaious engine components crushed as designed, thereby absorbing and lowering much of the collisions forces." This was the reason the air bags did not deploy. I am not an auto engineer but the car was totaled and first responders at the accident scene were very concerned.

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  Amazing Bang for the Buck - 2008 Scion XD
  By PA - February 19 - 5:56 pm

  We were in the market for a small, affordable car with decent space and high mpg. The xD price tag impressed us but when you add in all of the features that are included with the price such as the functionality of the interior (sliding and folding rear seats), the electronics (trip computer, cruise, great stereo with steering wheel controls and aux/iPod inputs), and the solid handling and engine, the car is a huge bargain. It really feels substantial on the road and the power is much better than expected. Its actually fun to drive and doesnt look like every other car out there! The gas mileage is excellent so far. The xD may very well become our car for long trips now.

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  Funnest Car Yet! - 2010 Scion XD
  By Leopold Peterson - February 8 - 10:50 am

  First I test drove the Kia Soul, and while I really liked the design and features of the car, I found it to be much less zippy, dare I say, gutless, even in comparison to my Hyundai Accent. The Soul had a 2.0 with 150 horses, but was so low on torque and so unresponsive on the get go that I found it a very boring drive. In comparison, when I tested the XD, I nearly popped a wheelie when I first took off. So much more responsive than the Soul. Mileage is great, mid 30s with a combination of city/hwy driving. The styling is fabulous, interior is comfortable.

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  Scion xD - 2008 Scion XD
  By melissa - January 20 - 9:56 am

  This car is fun to drive. I think that it gets good gas mileage, and has lots of space to fit five passengers.

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  I love this car! - 2008 Scion XD
  By Lenna - January 1 - 7:10 am

  After 3 months of research, my decision was b/w Civic and Xd. I decided to buy Xd because of its long list of standard features for the price. I just got it last week and have put 200 miles on and still have a half gas tank!My average MPG is 31-32, and I got almost 42 on highway!I cant wait to stretch this car out- a full tank of gas keeps this car running for 350-400 miles I reckon, which is great! I love the audio control, it lets you concentrating your eyes on traffic! I will get 18 inch wheels sometimes it makes this car look more luxury, check the parts online though it can be done cheaper. Oh, and this little car zips really well too!