2008 Scion xD

by Rebecca Antioco -07/2008

With a wide stance, broad grille and raked windshield, Scion xD is the distinctive replacement vehicle for the xA hatchback, by far the most conservative looking vehicle in Scion’s line up.

In contrast, the “D” in xD could easily stand for “distinctive.” With a high beltline and wide grille, the look is sufficiently funky and cutting edge to suit the Scion brand, though probably not as polarizing as the boxier xB.

Inside, the cabin setup is more traditional than that of the xB; gauges are located directly in front of the driver as opposed to above the center stack. The speedometer and tachometer share a circular pod — Scion just has to be different in dealing with the gauges in its vehicles. xD is one of the least-expensive vehicles on the market to offer an optional navigation system. Scion also takes iPod integration to the next level by providing a dedicated port that enables the driver to control his or her tunes directly through the audio system. When paired with the nav system, all are operated via a touch-screen.

The sport bucket seats are firm and very upright, and finding a comfortable driving position takes some doing. The seats adjust fore and aft, but not up and down and the steering wheel tilts, but doesn’t telescope. There’s not a lot of legroom, but back seat passengers will find plenty of headroom and, because the seatbacks recline, should be comfortable on short jaunts — or if they are children. The rear seats split 60/40 for versatility in hauling people and objects. Total cargo capacity is 35.7 cubic feet with both seats folded, which is at the low end of the spectrum for compact hatchbacks, but ample nonetheless.

Where xD stands out from the crowd, other than in appearance, is in the hip factor. Like all Scions, xD owners can choose from a variety of dealer-installed options like alloy wheels, shift knobs, interior mood lighting, steering wheel wrap and a rear spoiler to customize their ride.

Sharing a platform with Toyota Yaris, the xD runs on a 1.8-liter 128-horsepower engine and comes with a five-speed manual transmission as standard equipment. While heavier than competitors like Honda Fit, the xD still feels a little light traveling on the highway, with the electric steering imprecise and lots of shimmy coming into play when being passed by an 18-wheeler or encountering a strong wind. I found there to be an ample amount of wind and road noise at highway speed. The ride is comfortable, but uninspiring.

Safetywise, you needn’t worry. xD comes standard with anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, dual-stage front airbags for driver and passenger, seat-seat mounted and side-curtain airbags, active head restraints, stability and traction control and tire-pressure monitor system. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the xD a second-best “Acceptable” rating in front crash tests and the highest “Good” for side impacts.

While it won’t ever be mistaken for a performance hatchback, the xD does have the hip factor inherent in the Scion brand. It’s got more cache than a Honda Fit or a Toyota Yaris, and can be built to suit your personal needs and tastes. For those reasons, it should do well with young drivers looking for an economical car that stands out in a crowd.