2008 Scion xD Review

Small is the New Big

The Scion xD stands out in a growing field of subcompacts with distinctive styling and peppy performance.

Introduced in summer 2007 as a 2008 model, the four-door Scion xD hatchback replaces the former xA, and improves upon its predecessor in nearly every respect. Developed in conjunction with Daihatsu Motor Company in Japan and Toyota’s European Design Development studio, the xD shares its architecture with the Toyota Yaris, though the Scion is sportier, more refined, and better equipped (it’s also costlier and gets slightly worse fuel economy, however).

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Similar in length and wheelbase to most current subcompacts, albeit slightly wider than most, the Scion xD carries a long horizontal roofline. This maximizes rear seat headroom and makes backseat ingress and egress easier than in similar-sized models with curvier profiles. With short front and rear overhangs, the wheels are pushed out to the corners of the car; the xD’s front end treatment is reminiscent of the Yaris', with a few more muscular touches. A high beltline with a narrow greenhouse of windows make the Scion xD appear to be lower to the ground than it actually is.

A 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine generates sufficient muscle to get this lightweight (under 2,700 lbs) car up to speed, though you’ll need to explore the upper rpm range to get it to move briskly. The standard five-speed manual transmission shifts slickly and makes the most of the engine’s output. The available four-speed automatic is not the most sophisticated gearbox on the planet, but it works adequately and is a reasonable alternative for the majority of motorists who prefer not to work a clutch pedal.

While the old xA got slightly better fuel economy than the xD, it was about a third less powerful. Still, the Scion xD’s mileage remains on a par with other models in the subcompact class, topping out at better than 30 miles per gallon on the highway, based on the EPA’s revised fuel economy ratings system.

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A bit livelier to drive than the typical subcompact, the Scion xD’s handling benefits from an electromechanical power steering system that swaps a quicker-responding electric motor for a traditional set-up’s hydraulic unit. The car also rides on 16-inch wheels and tires, quite large for a car of this size, for added comfort and stability. Front disc and rear drum anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist are standard; an upgrade to four-wheel disc brakes is not offered. Aside from the automatic transmission, Vehicle Stability Control with Traction Control (to help the vehicle maintain its poise on wet pavement and in extreme handling situations) is the only factory option available.

• Scion xD Vehicle Summary

The Scion xD’s interior makes the most of its available space. It’s cleanly designed in a dark charcoal finish; unlike the xB, which places the instrument cluster at the center of the dashboard, here the gauge cluster in its usual position, directly in front of the driver. All switchgear is easy to operate and is placed well within reach. The rear seats include six inches of fore/aft travel to maximize legroom or cargo capacity, and they can recline up to 10 degrees for added comfort, though it can still be a tight squeeze for larger adults. Cupholders and storage cubbies abound, and the 60/40 split rear seat folds flat to afford a maximum of 35.7 cubic feet of storage space.

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A plentiful assortment of standard features includes side- and side-curtain airbags, power locks, mirrors, and windows, keyless entry, cruise control, a tire-pressure monitor, and a premium 160-watt Pioneer audio system with full iPod connectivity and control.

Assorted dealer-installed accessories are offered. These range from interior and exterior trim items to a GPS navigation system to an upgraded audio system that lets users download “skins” to decorate the unit’s display screen.