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:

• 

  A good choice. - 2008 Scion XD
  By Kerwin - January 15 - 1:16 am

  I went from a V8 Jeep Grand Cherokee to a V6 Cadillac CTS and now to a Scion xD, and let me tell you this car is really nice and good. My car insurance went way down, is a really safe car and comfortable. Is really good in MPG. I dont miss my Cadillac anymore, I love this car.

• 

  After much consideration - 2008 Scion XD
  By Stephanie - January 8 - 2:53 pm

  After much consideration, relying heavily on consumer reviews and expert opinions, I chose to buy a Scion xD. It took me almost 3 months of research and test drives to make up my mind, but I am very glad I bought the Scion. I would buy it again without a seconds hesitation. Other people are finally catching on because I have seen two other xDs in the last few weeks.

• 

  Surprisingly fun and inexpensive car - 2008 Scion XD
  By Carl - December 27 - 12:46 am

  Bought this guy a couple of months ago as an all-around hauler. I drive about 75 miles a day for work, was looking for practicality and fun. Also use on weekends for trips to see our daughter at college, etc. Very pleased with the xD. Lowered with TRD springs from dealer, rear spoiler, bumper protector. Have not used for overnight trip, but hauls four adults with ease (we are all short) and occasionally five for trips around town. Looked also at the Honda Fit, also nice, but glad I chose the xD. 33-36 miles per gallon (measured at fill-ups), 35-39 average on readout. Ride (w/TRD springs) is firm but comfortable. Co-worker has an xD also and has had good experience, highly recommended!

• 

  2008 XD auto - 2008 Scion XD
  By simonccny - November 8 - 6:23 pm

  got this car for $12000, 13k miles , i would say its a good deal. the car is fun to drive, totally would fit scions market. i am a 26 years old guy, and have no eager to buy those camery.

• 

  Easy to Buy, Easy to Drive - 2008 Scion XD
  By romans623 - October 26 - 1:16 pm

  Scion has everything done right, from the interactive website where you can build your vehicle, the pure pricing so you know what youre getting, to the buying experience where you pick the transmission, whether to have VSC or not, and then a list of dealer added options. Then when you get the car, everything is intuitively in the right place, and you dont even have to read the manual, since you can go to the website and watch the instructional videos. The xD is cute, spunky, has a lot of pep, and feels solid for such a small car. Its spacious enough for four adults, and very economical on the gas. It was made for Japanese domestic market so it slips into and out of traffic easily.

• 

  Decent car, but wouldnt buy it again - 2008 Scion XD
  By DJ - October 24 - 11:06 am

  I was looking for something inexpensive, reliable, and stylish; Id pretty much had my heart set on the scion tc, but I had hesitations about getting a 2 door, so I got the xd instead. This car is ok, but I have a few somewhat major gripes. There are HUGE blind spots on either side near the rear windows [& a tiny back window], so when I want to change lanes, I feel like Im taking a risk even with turning my head to look and using my mirrors. The brake system is weird, and even though its supposed to respond to a light tap, I have to press pretty hard to get the car to stop, and its a very bumpy ride (even going over parking lot speed bumps feels like off-roading in rough terrain).

• 

  Seats hurt lower back - 2009 Scion XD
  By chadsurfer8 - October 14 - 10:16 am

  The car is great over all. but ...... - major problem is the front seats hurt my lower back after 30 min or more drives. the lower back support has a hard bar that hurts. like a fold out couch sofa that has a bar going through the cushion in the middle. The lower cushion is not big enough and leaves my legs hanging. No adjustment for leg height. I am 59 and 170 lbs girls may not have this problem. i just replaced the seats yesterday with$500 TC seats set - fast for economy car. - i get 26 city and 32 hwy, i drive a little fast - great quality, just the sun visor has a line looks unfinished - Great look inside and out. - small like a SUV that was shrunk down. - cargo good

• 

  Drives Like A "Go Kart" - 2008 Scion XD
  By coytheboy - September 4 - 6:10 pm

  This is a neat little car that drives like a sports car but gives you the feel that you are in a larger car that grips the road like a Jag. The xD is very responsive and well powered in spite of its economy. It reminds me a bit like a "Go Kart" the way it handles turns. On long trips she is very comfortable and the standard stereo is high quality. MPG is in the mid 30s which is great for such a peppy car. Only negative is that the mirror buttons and dimmer controls are not illuminated at night. No big deal but it would be nice.

• 

  scionxd - 2010 Scion XD
  By pat downey - August 20 - 11:20 pm

  I have only about 500 miles on my xd manual transmission car. Overall it is a good little car and decent on MPG (about 33 on combined driving). It has a lot of features,standard equipment, that you normally would expect in higher priced cars. The one thing that I was surprised that it does not have, is a water coolant temp gauge. I bought a standard transmission because, in my experience, these little engines dont do very well with automatic transmissions. The car seems to be a little short on performance even with the 5 speed. At Interstate speeds, 70-75 MPH, there is what I think is a harmonic vibration that is very annoying.

• 

  Great choice - 2009 Scion XD
  By AZ - August 10 - 1:00 pm

  I bought the car 3 months ago, after researching cars (mostly) in the same category (e.g., Honda Fit, Nissan Versa, Mitsubishi Lancer, Mazda 3). The two finalists were the Scion and the Honda... the Honda dealers attitude (that I didnt like) and the Scions "pure price" with a nice set of standard features tipped the decision in favor of the Scion. Soon after purchase, I made a 2000 mile trip with the car--a true test for it! It aced the test and Ive been very happy with it after the trip as well. Gear shifting is smooth and acceleration is awesome for this car category. Gas mileage is much better than advertised. Comfortable for me (58"), could improve for taller people.