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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  Love it! - 2008 Scion XD
  By Juanita - January 20 - 4:30 am

  It was between the Versa & the xD. The xD won hands down! I love the cute, sporty look. It handles very well. I only wish the wheel covers werent so ugly. I test drove the fit, versa, mazda 3 and xD. By far, the xD was the most fun to drive. I get compliments all the time. I havent seen another on the road. So, I love its uniqueness!

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  Its ok. - 2009 Scion XD
  By Communter! - December 27 - 9:06 pm

  I really like all of the XDs features. The IPOD connection, steering wheel controls, and mpg calculator. I love the styling of the car. The downsides: I seem to be too tall for the car. I am 59, and my knees touch the bottom of the steering column. I try to get comfortable since I am driving 200 miles each day...but I just cant. I installed an aftermarket armrest...but its just not the same. The seats are not as comfortable as you would like, and they force you to sit up, and do not hug you like many cars.

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  On the roads of California - 2008 Scion XD
  By ACV - December 22 - 3:06 pm

  A bit noisy when driving past 50 MPH but otherwise a perfect car with lots of great features like a perfect sound system and the abs and airbags throughout features.

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  We did our homework - 2008 Scion XD
  By lowell hartig - November 12 - 3:56 pm

  Price, peppy engine, driver position and visibility, (for my wife - standard ABS), and a now proven, incredible fuel economy for our worst possible scenario, 2-mile average commute. One suddenly stormy Christmas shopping night with our kids, my son-in-laws full-sized pick-up bed, thought necessary for this excursion, was pushed aside with everything fitting into the easy access xD.

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  Fun car but fuel eco. not what expected - 2008 Scion XD
  By jpowell - September 9 - 5:20 am

  This was my wifes first new car. We bought it because of the look, the navigation system, but mostly because of the "expected" great fuel economy. I dont have much to say about the design besides that there should be an arm rest and it is crazy that the nav system doesnt allow you to use some of the options when the car is moving. The only real disappointment is the gas mileage. I read many reviews that stated 30+ and much more on trips. We have never seen anything better than 26-27/gallon city or highway or some combination. I know its not way off, but I was planning to see better than what we are getting.

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  Traded in my Clunker! - 2009 Scion XD
  By Audrey in Oregon - September 6 - 5:33 am

  I just got my new XD with the "Cash for Clunkers" program. They gave me $4500 for my 16-year old minivan with 165,000 miles on it. Love it so far. So fun to drive! My dog (Lab) does miss all the room in her van, but the back seats can be easily laid flat, and shell have plenty of room in the new car.

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  Best car choice for its class! - 2008 Scion XD
  By MichelleS - August 31 - 5:46 am

  I bought this little gem after having driven a 99 Windstar for almost 10 years. It took a little getting used to the change in size, but overall, this has been a great choice in vehicle! I mostly drive in town, but occasionally get on the highway. I find I get decent mileage in town and excellent mileage on the open road. The car defies the laws of physics. It is very comfortable for even large people and can hold a LOT more cargo than it looks. I love how I can whip in and out of parking spots easily, or slip into the next lane of traffic without cutting off the guy behind me. Overall, its been a great car to drive and the money I save on gasoline is a dream!

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  Great for city driving - 2008 Scion XD
  By hbrown - August 8 - 1:10 am

  Have for 1 year and very happy with the car. Narrowed choice was XD or Honda Fit. Mostly stop & go city driving, 27 mpg. First hatchback, will never go back to regular trunk.

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  Super fun 2nd Family Car - 2009 Scion XD
  By SoCal Driver - July 16 - 3:50 am

  Needed a 2nd car for all my kid pick- ups and drops. Our Suburban has a severe drinking problem and is in rehab. Looked and researched every car in this category. It was between the xD and the Fit. The xD was $2k less than the similarly equipped Fit and the fit/finish and engine performance was much, much better as well. Also, the Honda dealers came across as very snotty about the Fit, not my thing. Didnt notice any difference between the manual and auto when testing. Handles amazingly well. Feels sporty and luxurious inside. Great on the hwy as well as our rural roads. MPG - solid 31 city (hilly and curvy) and 38 highway. Will be the kids car in 2 yrs and they love it.

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  Absolutely Love It!! - 2008 Scion XD
  By Stephanie - July 14 - 9:16 pm

  I fell in love with this car the first time I drove it. I looked at other ones but kept coming back. Its fun, zippy, a LOT more room than the coupe I used to drive. It feels like a mini SUV. When the back seats are folded down almost anything will fit. Ive have a few problems with it, transmission slips every one and awhile in the cold, ABS and EBrake lights keep coming on. However, I have done quite a bit of research and neither seems to be a common problem so Im thinking I just got a bad one. The gas mileage is amazing, 35-45 in the summer, I have even had it to 50 on long road trips. The winter is a little lower averaging 30 mpg city/highway mix.