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Scion xD - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Scion xD ranks 19 out of 29 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 34 published reviews and test drives of the Scion xD, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Reviewers appreciate the xD for its around-town cruising capabilities and long list of customization options, but most say that it lacks the comfort and utility of other small cars or hatchbacks.

The Scion xD shares a platform with the Toyota Yaris, which has a starting price that is around $2,500 less that the xD, making it a tempting alternative. Nonetheless, the xD is worth every extra penny. The Yaris has an impressive list of standard features that includes things like air conditioning, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel and a Pioneer standard audio system with six speakers. By contrast, the Yaris has one of the most bare-bones interiors in the affordable small car class and demands an additional cost for many basic features (like power windows and doors) that are standard on the majority of other cars.

The 2010 Scion xD is essentially the same as the 2009 model, with a few notable upgrades. Perhaps most importantly, the xD now comes with vehicle stability control standard, making it an even safer ride. The 2010 model also offers the option of a stereo system upgrade to the Alpine Premium Package for around $500, which includes a touch screen and HD radio.

Beyond these upgrades, the xD is still the same quirky Scion that it always has been, short on space but long on available features. Indeed, many reviewers say that other than it's funky exterior styling, the xD's extensive list of optional and standard features is the main reason to consider it. Savvy car buyers should definitely cross-shop it with other affordable small cars. For those interested in cargo capacity and versatility, the Honda Fit is a must see. It's in the same general price range as the xD and leaves it in the dust with the innovative "magic seat," which offers three storage modes. Those who want a roomier, more comfortable interior should check out the Kia Soul. It costs about $1,300 less than the xD, but it has cushy front and rear seats and a similarly long list of optional and standard features.

True to Scion's tradition of providing blank canvases for car buyers, the 2010 xD is only available in one trim but allows for plenty of customization.

• "The xD shares the practical, utilitarian nature of its xB sibling but with more-conventional styling and control layout that give it broader appeal." -- Consumer Guide
• "A stylized exterior and an impressive features list should attract buyers to the 2010 Scion xD, but some competing models offer more utility and fun." -- Edmunds
• "In our last road test, we found that the xD offered excellent fuel economy, with decent handling and a versatile interior. However, there is considerable road, mechanical, and wind noise. The ride is choppy, and rearward visibility is compromised by thick C-pillars." -- Consumer Reports
• "If you want a four-door hatchback that has a solid ride, bold styling and comes with nearly everything you could or would want, look no further than the 2009 Scion xD." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "People who want a cheap car today can have their cake and eat it, too, with the 2009 Scion xD. Actually, the xD shouldn't be called cheap. It's inexpensive, and your mom will tell you there's a difference." -- Mother Proof

xD Performance - 7.2 (Good)

As a performer, the 2010 Scion xD won't win any drag races but it has a capable engine accompanied by competent handling and responsive brakes. Edmunds says, "The 2010 Scion xD won't tempt you to take the long way home, but its 1.8-liter engine offers uncommon zest for this segment." Read More

xD Exterior - 7.7 (Good)

Like many of the hatchbacks on the market today, the 2010 Scion xD has a boxy shape, but it also has a unique look that draws mixed reviews. "The funky exterior of the...xD continues Scion's distinctive look," says Mother Proof. "There's a hot-rod feel to it that makes it more interesting than your average hatchback." Read More

xD Interior - 7.2 (Good)

Scion's 2010 xD lacks both the level of comfort and versatile cargo space that many of its competitors offer, but its long list of standard and available options is still a big draw. As Edmunds puts it, "The best reason to consider the xD is the lengthy list of options that your Scion dealer will happily install." Read More

xD Safety - NA

The 2010 Scion xD receives excellent scores in government crash testing, particularly in side impact testing. Although the insurance industry has not yet had time to test the 2010 xD, the 2009 model scored similarly well, especially in side and rear impact testing. All xD's now come with vehicle stability control standard. Read More

xD Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)

The 2010 Scion xD reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2010 Scion xD has a basic warranty good for the first three years or 36,000 miles. Read More