In 2008, the Scion xD was launched onto the market to replace the previous pint-sized xA model, and since then has gained a big reputation for a little car. It is clearly targeted towards the younger generation as a sporty urban hatchback and like its xA predecessor, uses its fuel economy as its main leverage point. There is a lot more to be said for it though, with its respectable performance, comfortable interior, plenty of gadgets and superior safety. And with the economy and fuel prices at the top of the public consciousness, it is bound to be a great seller.
2009 Scion xD Performance
The Scion xD features Toyota’s 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing 128hp and with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. It includes Variable Valve Timing and Direct Fuel Injection, and makes 27/33mpg city/highway driving (the automatic scores one mpg less). Being 300lb heavier than its xA predecessor, the xD is a bit slower on the take-off and handling is a touch less responsive, so overall it feel less sporty than the Honda Fit or Nissan Versa. However suspension is firm and with the manual it gives a zippy and fun ride, as opposed to the automatic which has trouble maintaining the revs high enough to give enough oomph. If it is performance you are looking for, it is worthwhile investing in Toyota Racing Development’s sporty add-on package for better handling and suspension features.
2009 Scion xD Interior and features
In its Scion series Toyota has made a lot more features standard using their “mono spec” philosophy, simplifying the buyer’s choices to transmission type and color, and then giving them the option to add all the packages they want for additional features. It means that there is far more included in the standard package than almost any other car in the class, including power everything, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, adjustable rear seats that also fold flat for increased carrying capacity, and plenty of safety features. Choosing the color might be more of a challenge than you think, with many on offer including Super White, Silver Streak Mica, Black Sand Pearl, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Barcelona Red Metallic and Nautical Blue Metallic.
The interior clearly shows that the folk at Scion have done their homework about what is important to their target audience, including a powerful 160-watt 6-speaker Pioneer audio system and iPod/ MP3/ WMA docking station with auxiliary port. The audio system can be upgraded to include an electroluminescent screen that allows the driver to upload their favorite photos or wallpapers. There are storage spaces everywhere you look, from the split-level glove-box to handy trunk storage nooks and crannies. The theme of the interior is dark charcoal for a slightly sophisticated look, and the seats are surprisingly comfortable for a car in this price bracket. Even the plastic surfaces feature a woven matte-look which is a huge improvement on some of those very cheap and nasty plastic-obsessed cars on the market these days. There is also a really classy multi-information display to let the driver know about fuel economy, distance-to-empty, average speed and other info with the flick of a switch.
There is plenty of space in the xD, and even the back seat is comfortable for adults thanks to the adjustable and reclining rear seat features. There is enough legroom in the front for the tallest of adults, and lots of cargo space in the trunk.
2009 Scion xD Safety
The 2009 Scion xD performs well in the NHTSA crash tests, scoring a perfect five stars for side impact for the driver and rear passenger. For front impact and rollover resistance they scored four points which is still quite acceptable. Unlike almost all other competitors in the hatchback class, the Scion xD offers electronic stability control and traction control as an extra. Standard is the Electronic Brake-Force Distribution, ABS and Brake Assist which automatically adjusts brake pressure in emergency braking situations to ensure the vehicle remains in control. Tire pressure monitoring, dual stage front airbags, curtain side airbags and a first aid kit are also standard.
Standard safety features include:
- Electronic Brake force distribution
- ABS and Brake Assist
- Front dual stage airbags, side curtain, front seat-mounted airbags
- Tire pressure monitoring
Overall the 2009 Scion xD is not the best in its class for design, performance or interior, but what it excels at is delivering an affordable blend of fuel economy, driving ability, interior comfort and gadgetry that will keep the cool urban youth, retirees and everyone in between satisfied with what it has to offer.