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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  What a great and fun car - 2008 Scion XD
  By Love It! - September 30 - 4:50 am

  My initial opinion of the car was that it looked so small. Once I opened the door and got inside, however, I was shocked! The interior is not only spacious but incredibly well laid out. Im six feet tall and fit easily into the seats with ample head room to spare. The controls were especially well designed and the overall feel of the dash was that it was designed with purpose and care. Comparable models and brands often just throw a slab of plastic on and a few radio knobs and call it a dash but Scion thoughtfully put together a great interior for its owners.

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  2008 Scion xD - 2008 Scion XD
  By Lane - September 24 - 6:26 pm

  I went to look for a new car. Open minded and looked at a number of different ones and test drove more than I probably should. I saw a nice custom jeep, looked at a number of new BMWs then I saw it from across the lot: the new Scion xD. Nice looking, great features, 100s of accessories, great gas mileage, great warranty, etc. The list just went on and on. Then I drove and immediately fell in love. My partner kept pushing the BMW, which was really nice and I was about to get it but, I liked the Scion. I would recommend this car as well as the other Scion models to anyone.

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  Very Happy With Our Scion XD Purchase - 2010 Scion XD
  By Aimee - September 9 - 10:00 am

  Before deciding on the Scion XD I checked out the competition, as I was looking for the most stylish, fuel efficient, sporty looking small car I could get at a great base price, with all the features I wanted. Honda fit, the Nissan Versa, Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, none compared..they all felt like I was driving a Chevette. The Scion XD feels and looks like a micro SUV. Base package comes with cruise control, power everything, keyless entry system, a very nice pioneer radio, and more. This is probably my favorite new car purchase in 20 years. Theres so much to rave about with the XD. I get 34-37mpg in the city, havent gotten to check out highway yet. I LOVE LOVE THIS CAR!

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  Tires are garbage - 2008 Scion XD
  By cfeather - May 21 - 6:03 am

  Research this carefully. The Goodrich tires that came on this vehicle new are garbage. Had to be replaced at 24 K. But there are only 2 manufacturers who make a tire for this car. Both are garbage. So what good is reliability, fuel efficiency, etc. if the tires are failing? New tires (Dunlop) were $600 at dealer cost. Wheel bearing went out on my XA at 32K, so I have that to look forward to next! GM parts used on these cars, so this is to be expected.

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  Would not buy again - 2008 Scion XD
  By ts16240 - May 13 - 2:02 am

  The XD was my first brand new car, and I am very disappointed in it. I will be trading it in soon. First off the tires are not great on it. It slides all over the road, rain and snow. I did however find winter tires this year and it went much better, but the cost was high ($600). Driving on the highway is horrible because any little bit of wind and it blows you all over the road. Also when driving with just the front windows down is impossible, it makes a wind tunnel effect and is a killer on your ears, so the back windows have to be down too. I also replaced the charcoal canister twice in it, which happened at 38,000 miles. $1,000+ each time replaced. Not the vehicle I expected.

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  Pitfalls of an xD - 2008 Scion XD
  By Duke - May 4 - 9:20 pm

  Due to sluggish brakes I rear-ended another car at 30 mph. The cars airbags deployed and i was fine, but the cars front end was demolished. Insurance estimates show repair cost to be half the price I paid for the car!

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  Fun commuter - 2008 Scion XD
  By nick - April 11 - 9:16 pm

  I use the car one week a month to drive 100 mi. a day, and the rest of the time it is a daily driver. On the week I drive my car pool to work there is me 60", step dad 511", mom 57" and coworker 63" and about 300 lbs. I have never had a shortage of power or room. For a car I can literally wrap my arms around that is saying a lot. The back seat that slides and reclines helps.

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  Very pleased !! - 2009 Scion XD
  By D.B - April 3 - 1:56 pm

  This is a sporty, efficient yet practical car. I would highly recommend it. The manual tranny gives more of a driving experience. Accessories are hard to get at an affordable price. Responsive steering and handling. In my opinion has plenty of power. It gets up to speed quickly. Has way more options than the competition, I.E. ABS brakes, power door/windows, etc. By far the best value out there.

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  Fun Economical Car - 2009 Scion XD
  By Steve - March 14 - 1:46 pm

  Bought this car for use as my wifes and myself commuting car and to keep the SUV in the garage to keep the miles off it and save some money in gas. We keep the rear seats down and use the area as a cargo area. The dogs love the cargo area as well. We purchased an after market rubber mat that covers the complete cargo area (with the seats down). The car looks small on the outside, but inside there is a lot more room than youd expect. We did look at the Honda Fit, but liked the look and the wat the xD drove. Also, the local Honda dealer marked up the price of the Fit by $2500 over MSRP and unwilling to negotiate off that price. Glad we passed on the Fit. The Xd fits our needs.

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  Great car - 2010 Scion XD
  By doccac - March 1 - 4:36 am

  I am very happy with the XD. My two previous cars were a 328i (2008) and a VW GTI (2009). I am very happy with this little car. Its the least expensive car I have bought in 15 years and yet fun to drive, totally reliable, utilitarian. It is fun to drive, plenty peppy getting on the freeway. I just got 36 mpg in mixed city driving. It is a great car and a great value. Highly recommend it.