2008 Scion xD Review

Scion's 2008 xD is a small, five-door hatchback that's geared toward young urban dwellers on a budget who need a small car yet want many of the interior appointments or flashy features of a larger, more expensive vehicle.

A 128-horsepower, 1.8L four-cylinder engine provides power for the front-wheel-drive xD, along with either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. According to the EPA's new 2008 fuel economy estimates, the xD returns 27 mpg in the city and 33 on the highway with the standard five-speed.

The xD comes equipped like a much more expensive car, with conveniences like air conditioning, cruise control, steering-wheel audio controls, a 160-watt, six-speaker AM/FM/CD sound system that's MP3 and satellite compatible, a first-aid kit, and power windows, locks, and mirrors, all included in the base price.

Front seat-mounted side air bags, front and rear side-curtain bags, and anti-lock brakes are standard on the xD, while vehicle stability control is the only factory option. There's a long list of dealer-installed options that give the xD a flashier appearance, sportier sound, or improved handling, depending on customer needs.

One of the keys to the xD's more aggressive outward appearance is the combination of flared wheel wells along with large, 16-inch wheels and tires. The xD's interior has been completely redesigned. There's a more conventional layout, with the gauge cluster now located in front of the driver, though the speedometer and tachometer are located within the same cleverly laid-out gauge, which resembles a sophisticated watch face. The back seat folds forward neatly for expanded cargo space.
The former Scion xA has been redesigned and re-named the xD for 2008, and it gets a larger, 1.8L four-cylinder engine. Sold only as a five-door hatchback, it's new inside and out, with more aggressive exterior styling and a new interior design; the xD's much-maligned central speedometer has been moved in front of the driver. And like the other cars in the Scion lineup, it comes fully loaded with safety and convenience features. see less