Scion xD: new for 2008

The Scion xD replaced the xA in 2008. Taller and heavier, the xD is larger outside than the xA, but in some dimensions smaller inside; and while the engine gained in size and power, it also has more weight to pull around. Brakes were beefed up but the rear stabilizer bar was dropped.

It's bigger and faster, but remains firmly planted on the Yaris platform; the four-door hatchback provides lots of usable interior space, thanks partly to a wider suspension and axle than the Yaris (resulting in one inch greater overall width). The Scion also uses the Corolla 1.8 liter four-cylinder engine, which boosts power from 103 to 128 horsepower, and torque from 101 to 125 pound-feet; gas mileage fell by 5-6 mpg, but that is partly due to the change in the way mileage is calculated, partly due to the weight hike (around 280 pounds, but that includes new safety equipment). The sticker price is expected to increase from the current $13,360 to around $15,000 - $16,000.

The xD retains rear drum brakes, not really an issue with a car of this weight; the rear suspension is a weight-and-cost saving torsion beam design, hearkening back to the prior decade's auto fashions, but many people prefer this kind of suspension for the “solid feel.” Also retained are the integrated speedometer and tachometer, placed directly in front of the driver. The interior has been restyled and looks considerably more upscale than in the first generation; there are also more storage areas.

New are rear seats that can actually recline by 10 degrees, if pulled forward; and they can be pulled forward a full six inches.

Standard features are generous for the expected price: cruise, air, trip computer, intermittent wipers, power windows amd mirrors, remote, six airbags with adaptive front head restraints, tilt wheel with built-in audio controls, 160 watt Pioneer CD stereo with auxiliary input, 16 inch wheels, and fold-flat rear seats.

Airbags are driver and front passenger; front seat-mounted sides; front and rear side curtains. Vehicle stability control with traction control is optional; a first aid kit is standard; antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist are standard.

Scion xD specifications

Selected Scion xD standard features

• 60/40-split folding, reclining and sliding rear seat
• Air conditioning
• Auxiliary audio input and iPod jacks
• Cargo area under-floor storage
• Choice of three wheel cover designs
• Chrome exhaust tip
• Cruise control
• Cup holders
• Deep orange instrument panel illumination
• Digital clock
• Driver and front passenger dual stage airbags SRS
• Driver and front passenger sunvisor with mirror
• First-aid kit
• Four-wheel anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist
• Front seat-mounted side airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags
• Front sport bucket seats with fabric upholstery
• Headrests and three-point seatbelts in all five seating positions
• Intermittent front wiper
• Multi-information display
• Multi-reflector halogen headlamps
• Pioneer 160-watt maximum output AM/FM/CD head unit (MP3/WMA and satellite-tuner capable) with iPod compatibility, six speakers, Scion Sound Processing, a user-customizable welcome screen, and Sound
Retouch digital equalization for clearer MP3/WMA-CD sound
• Power door locks, outside mirrors, and windows with one-touch auto down on driver’s side
• Rear window defogger
• Rear wiper
• Remote keyless entry
• Roof-mounted antenna
• Side mirrors with turn indicators
• Tachometer and trip meter
• Tilt steering wheel with audio controls
• Tire pressure monitor system

Read our Scion xD car review!