2008 Scion xD (Review)

[bad karma]

Overview

Prospective Scion buyers need to understand they're joining a cult. This is inseparable from the mechanical aspects of the car. And you have to not just drink the Kool-Aid, but buy it yourself, at least with the all-new xD.

The 2008 Scion xD replaces the efficient and cute xA, after just four years. The xA was popular, but Scion's grand plan is to offer new models frequently, so the xA had to go. Although the xD is all new, it's basically just a name change, or the second generation of the xA.

On paper, the Scion xD has the right stuff, with a longer wheelbase and wider track, but virtually the same overall length as the xA. It gains 20 horsepower over the xA, with a slightly larger 1.8-liter engine using the latest version of Toyota's brilliant VVT-i technology. But the engine has 300 more pounds of curb weight to carry, so acceleration is lost. The EPA-rated fuel mileage figures drop 6 mpg from the xA, down to 26 city and 32 highway, but that's partly if not fully a reflection of the EPA's new testing methods that take effect on 2008 models.

Unfortunately, the xD comes with a traditional four-speed automatic transmission. Performance seriously suffers with that four-speed automatic, and it feels like it needs a fifth gear. However, the five-speed manual transmission is fine.

Also, the xD offers less interior room than the old xA did, in particular less legroom: a critical four fewer inches in the rear seat, and one less inch in front. The good news is the 60/40 rear seat reclines, slides, and folds totally flat, creating an excellent cargo space.

The xD has a new boxy roofline and bulbous hood, and we think it has lost the spunky look of the xA. It looks much like the new xB. Before 2008, the xA and the xB looked totally different, but now the cars have morphed into sameness. However, the xD can be dressed up and made to be very good-looking and even distinctive, by purchasing components from your Scion dealer, starting with wheels. That's the idea. The Scion is all about personalization. It might be called My Scion, for those inclined to want everything labeled Mine, not anyone else's, but Mine Mine Mine.



Model Lineup

The Scion xD comes with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine making 128 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque. It comes with a choice of five-speed manual transmission or four-speed automatic.

Standard equipment includes air conditioning; power windows, door locks and mirrors; remote keyless entry; 60-40 reclining, sliding and flat-folding rear seat; cruise control; halogen headlights; Pioneer 160-watt, six-speaker sound system wired for MP3, iPod and satellite radio.

Safety features include frontal and side-impact front airbags; curtain airbags for both rows (for head protection); tire pressure monitor; anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist. Electronic stability control (VSC) with traction control is optional. Scion says the xD is expected to earn a Good crash rating (the top rating) for front and side impacts from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (which tests cars for the insurance industry).

Tons of accessories are available from the Scion dealers, including parts made by TRD (Toyota Racing Development), as well as aftermarket suppliers: everything from an engine supercharger to carbon-fiber window trim.