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:
Showing 71 through 80 of 262.00-
Perfection. - 2008 Scion XD
By MaxM - May 8 - 5:20 pmWhen I was first looking at cars to buy I was trying to find an SUV. I wanted a vehicle that I could put stuff in the back of (home depot trips, etc.). Unfortunately, gas shot up to like $4 a gallon that day so I got rid of the SUV idea. After a lot of researching and reviewing, i went with the xD for its gas mileage, fold- down back seats (my friend and I can finagle our mountain bikes in there and trips to home depot are no problem), a low price tag, and the Toyota built engine. Ive had the car about 6 months now and i couldnt be happier. Its definitely got some pep to it when you hit the gas, too. Good for light stuff, just dont expect to do any heavy hauling.
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Top Notch! - 2008 Scion XD
By Nate - April 30 - 5:06 amWe just purchased this car last month for a gas saver (Previous vehicle a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado ext. cab) -- Skeptic at first, however I was wrong! This car is not only very good on gas, but it shows quality at every turn. From a guys point of view I must admit I have ended up being the prominent driver (no regrets). Toyota has really landed a nice concept of "a lot of car for your money". It is no wonder that they (Toyota) have secured the title of the number 1 auto manufacturer in the world. Domestic auto makers should take not. Bottom line for those considering... "Economical doesnt mean cheap!" (or boring)
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Great little car - 2008 Scion XD
By Carl - April 18 - 1:40 pmTwo months into ownership and we are extremely pleased with the xD. We wanted something that would replace our Toyota Tacoma, which had given us wonderful reliability for 110,000 miles but the 23 mpg was killing me when I drove it for work (my cheap employer who still thinks gas costs $1.20 a gallon pays only 20 cents per mile). I drove the Yaris 4 dr and liked it very much but did not like the auto transmission and the lack of a hatchback. The Scion was just the ticket, exactly what I wanted. I rode the fence between this and the Fit, but I like the bigger tires and higher ride on this and the great stereo system. Best of all is the gas mileage. 44mp on the freeway!
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Great Buy - 2008 Scion XD
By annez37 - April 18 - 1:36 pmWe looked at the Pontiac Vibe and a Kia, this car was the most bang for the buck. We got it at the TMV, there was no negotiating. Standard features on the Scion were extras on the other cars we looked at. It drives like a big car, every time I get out of it, I look at it and cant believe how small it is! The Pioneer stereo/cd are great. Cant go wrong with Toyota. 42 mpg highway so far.
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Scion xD towers over competition - 2010 Scion XD
By Barbara - March 26 - 10:20 amAfter months of researching and test driving most of the subcompacts in this price range, the Scion xD won by leaps and bounds. The exterior design is just funky enough for a hip 50+ driver and the interior design is thoughtful and practical enabling one to ignore the plethora of plastic. Mileage, even in the first week, exceeds all expectations. Love that standard equipment on the xD would mean thousands more on other makes/models. The road noise is a bit loud, but the standard 6-speaker Pioneer stereo covers that beautifully. The cargo capacity and split seat design for variety of space and ease of configuring is amazing.
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Looking for Economy? - 2009 Scion XD
By GFS - February 14 - 9:33 amI drive 2000 miles a month, so the low price and great economy of the Scion xD really fit the bill. Hwy mpg runs 38.5 at 70mph; at 65mph, 39.6, sometimes 40 mpg for the 250 mile one- way trip. 32mpg in the city, and more if I use the interstate to get to work. Dont care much for the Premium Pioneer radio--difficult to operate-- but the sound system itself is fine-- but nowhere close to the sound system in my prior 08 Mariner. Road noise bothers me a little. The car handles great and it is roomy for its size. Ive grown accustomed to no arm rest, which really irked me at first. Long distance driving causes rump rot and achy legs for me, but it is fun to drive in city. I am happy with it.
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Decieving machine - 2010 Scion XD
By Michael - January 7 - 4:43 pmI love my 2010 Scion XD. But honestly I"m a bit disappointed with some things. I love the standard features and the reliability factor and the way it looks. The thing I didnt like was the ride. I notice that when going over a man hole cover or any decent bumps in the road which we have a lot of here in NYs capital district. Its very jarring and annoying and makes me wonder if it is causing too much vibration to the chassis of the car causing premature wear. The other thing is that the cargo space even with the seats folded down is very limited compared to the fit and the Kia soul. Im a musician, though easier now,I was able to fit more into my Saturn SL. Other than that, I like it.
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Love My 2008 "Lil Hottie" Scion XD - 2008 Scion XD
By Love My Scion XD - January 6 - 11:56 amI purchased my 2008 Scion Xd a week ago and I am enjoying my drive. It is a fun car to drive and I look forward to driving it every day. It is a little noisy but the standard features outweigh the road noise. I test drove the Honda Fit, the Nissan Versa and the Honda Civic before test driving the Scion Xd and when I did I knew I had found the car. It was fun to drive and all the standard features. The gas mileage is what they say 26 city avg. and 32 hwy miles. I mainly drive city miles. I do wish it had a center armrest. Wished the VSC would come standard but other than that I love my Scion in red. Enjoy when I see turned heads as I drive by. I love its uniqueness in looks. Love it!
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Im in Love!!!! - 2008 Scion XD
By LunaFierce - December 2 - 1:10 pmI have had my xD for a little over a month now, and I absolutely LOVE IT! I feel like I am driving an SUV with out having the SUV car payment and poor fuel mileage. I am pulling about 32 city / 37 highway... YES!!! This little car has some power. It accelerates at a decent speed, and it keeps up the pace with minimal gas pedal pushing. And it is a solid car! Yeah it has a little road noise, but when you close the doors, you can hear how well made the car is.
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Wow! - 2008 Scion XD
By XD Fan - November 28 - 1:16 pmWe just traded in our gas guzzling minivan for this cute little car and what a great decision it was. The dealership did not budge on the $15,700 sticker price for the base model (which was loaded - no complaints there) with the manual transmission but it was still a fabulous price. We are averaging 38 combined city/hwy mph and a whopping 41 mpg on the highway. No more filling up at $102 a pop. This car sips! We love the ride and there is plenty of room for the kids in the back. Only downfall is that darn arm rest - a driver and passenger one would be nice. Other than that, this is a great car for the money and we highly recommend it. Cant wait to drive it in the snow.
