MSRP: $14,650 - $15,450
Invoice: $13,917 - $14,677
MPG: 27 City / 33 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores

Overall:7.8
Performance:7.1
Exterior:7.7
Interior:7.4
Safety:8.8
Reliability:6.0
Research we analyzed for this review
Pros and Cons
  • Satisfying acceleration, especially with the automatic transmission
  • An impressive list of standard interior features for its class
  • Funky exterior styling
  • Not enough legroom in front seats, even for a small car
  • Limited capacity for larger cargo items
  • Expensive customization options

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Scion xD - What the Auto Press Says

The xD is an acceptable car for around-town cruising with plenty of customization options for a unique look and feel. But it doesn't have the stamina or utility of other small cars or hatchbacks.

Last year, most reviews of the 2008 Scion xD were favorable when comparing it to the small car it replaced, the Scion xA. But while those reviewers described it as a quirky hatch with improved styling and power, they also admit the '08 xD was acceptable, but not exceptional compared to other affordable compacts.

Now that the refreshed 2009 has arrived on lots with very few changes, only time can tell whether the automotive press will compare the car more to its contemporaries as opposed to its predecessor. If you're looking for a car with a proven track record, most agree you can't go wrong with the Honda Civic. The Civic has long been considered one of the most practical choices in the class, thanks to its outstanding power and sleekness.

However, the 2009 Scion xD does have a competitive edge on the Civic. Only available in one trim, the xD is an inexpensive blank canvas that allows for plenty of customization. Some of the xD's available aftermarket features include an Alpine Blackbird or Pioneer GPS navigation system, accessory holders and LED ashtrays from Carmate, or a Five Axis Lip and Body Kit.

  • "It looks decent, drives all right, and houses a useful and attractive interior." -- Car and Driver
  • "A bumpy little car with a funky look and marginally engaging personality." -- USA Today
  • "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." -- About.com
  • + "As the xD enters its second-year on the market, the car could start to gain more traction as yet another frugal alternative that offers decent utility as well as customization options aimed at the kids." -- Motor Trend
  • "At first glance, drivers likely wouldn't think much of the economy car. With its boxy exterior and minimum style, the xD simply isn't much to scream about." -- The Denver Daily News
  • + "The 2009 Scion xD, with its aggressive short, squat stance, four doors and convenient hatchback, is a nice addition to the Scion family line-up. Although it delivers slightly less interior and cargo room than the old xA it replaced last year, the xD offers a bigger engine with 25 additional horsepower." -- Kelley Blue Book
  • + "Cheap cars aren't what they used to be, no sir. When I was a kid, cheap cars had tiny rearview mirrors. The nicer cheap cars had AM and FM on their radios. Times have changed, and people who want a cheap car today can have their cake and eat it, too, with the 2009 Scion xD." -- Mother Proof

xD Performance - 7.1 (Good)

The Scion xD's engine is adequate and is accompanied by competent handling and responsive brakes. USA Today says, "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." Read More

xD Exterior - 7.7 (Good)

The 2009 xD has the funky, boxy appeal now associated with small hatchbacks. Mother Proof's reviewer says, "There's a hot-rod feel to it that makes it more interesting than your average hatchback. The front grille and bumper are low to the ground, and the back end is squared off. That's a good thing for those of us who like to make a style statement with our car." Read More

xD Interior - 7.4 (Good)

Though it's missing some of the space or comfort its competitors have, the 2009 Scion xD does have a simple and intuitive cabin, with quality standard and optional features, and fun customization options. About.com says, "Plastic doohickeys aside, I really like the xD's cabin. It's brimming with storage space, including a double glovebox." Read More

xD Safety - 8.8 (Very Good)

Its safety scores don't ensure the xD a top spot in its class for safety, but the hatchback does well in federal government crash tests, and earns reviewer praise for a lengthy list of standard safety equipment. Read More

xD Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)

The 2009 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 2009 Scion xD has a basic warranty good for the first three years or 36,000 miles. Powertrain coverage is offered for the first five years or 60,000 miles. Read More

Review Last Updated: 6/30/09