2008 Scion xD
Based on analysis of 19 xD reviews and test drives.
Scion xD Ranks #21 in Affordable Small Cars
Overall Score - 7.1 (Good)
Based on U.S. News editors' analysis of 19 leading automotive reviews and test drives, the 2008 Scion xD ranks #21 of 29 in Affordable Small Cars.
The xD is an acceptable car for around-town cruising and offers plenty of customization options for a unique look and feel. But it doesn't have the stamina or utility of other cars in its class and stacks up as simply adequate relative to competitors. If you're in the market for an affordable small car, you should also consider the similarly styled Honda Fit. Also consider the highly-rated Honda Civic.
The 2008 Scion xD is a new four-door hatchback that replaces another Scion hatchback, the 2006 xA. Most automotive reviewers decide the xD is an improvement in terms of styling and power. As Car and Driver says, "the xD is still a small economy car, but it's no torture chamber. It looks decent, drives all right, and houses a useful and attractive interior." However, most also admit the 2008 xD is merely acceptable compared to other affordable compacts. USA Today calls the xD a "bumpy little car with a funky look and marginally engaging personality." About.com says, "If you believe, as (for those of you old enough to remember Billy Crystal on Saturday Night Live) Fernando did, that 'it's better to look good than to feel good,' then, dahling, the 2008 Scion xD is the subcompact for you."
Only available in one trim, the xD is an inexpensive blank canvas, which allows for lots of customization. But prospective buyers should note the cost of individuality can quickly add up. IntelliChoice gives the 2008 xD an overall value rating of "Better than Average", based on the total cost of ownership compared to others in its class.
xD Performance - 6.0 (Mediocre)
Although the 2008 Scion xD's performance is considered better than its predecessor (the xA), it's not up to the standards of most of its class. Still USA Today writes the xD should still fit the subcompact driver's needs: "Urb or burb, the new car seems pretty good transport for those who don't need big, nor want brawny, nor care much about brisk." continue
xD Exterior - 6.8 (Mediocre)
Although the brand-new xD falls in the middle of the affordable small car class for exterior style, most have nothing but praise for the hatchback's distinctive look. Road and Track notes it "exhibits less of a 'cute' air than the female-oriented xA," while About.com says, "I like what I see. Actually, in terms of the styling, I love what I see." continue
xD Interior - 7.0 (Good)
Although the 2008 xD is not as spacious or versatile as its top-ranked competitors, many give it the benefit of the doubt. USA Today says the car is "generally roomy for the small exterior size." continue
xD Safety - 9.2 (Excellent)
The Scion xD has not been crash tested by the federal government, and it performs moderately in insurance industry crash tests. However, it does provide a full array of safety equipment. continue
xD Reliability - NA
Based on the U.S. News analysis of reliability information from a number of different sources, the 2008 Scion xD receives good marks for its predicted reliability. Scion provides basic warranty coverage for three years or 36,000 miles. continue