Several consumer blog sites claim that the xD out-performs and looks more appealing than its comparables on the market. A 1.8L 2ZR-FE inline 4-cylinder engine produces up to 128 horsepower. This level of power simply fails to beat the competition. Nevertheless, the xD has been flying off of sales lots. The reason could easily be the impressive gas mileage with 26 city MPG and 32 highway MPG. Those numbers are equal or better than some hybrid models on the market.

Scion, a division of Toyota, is fairly happy with the popularity of their vehicle. Of course, Toyota has its own adaptation of the xD - the Yaris. Critics claim that the xD is merely a longer version of the Yaris. However, Scion refutes that; saying that the xD is an individual and not a replica of another model. The Scion brand is marketed to a younger consumer, and the xD is at the forefront in 2008. Extensive customization is available on the xD, and Scion knows that younger buyers can never have enough options.

Some consumers adore the manufacturer’s distinctive design choices, while others absolutely abhor the maker’s signature boxy style. Either way, Scion has certainly made its mark on the automobile industry, and the release of the Scion xD was no exception. Unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show in February of 2007, the xD replaced Scion’s earlier xA. The five-door hatchback has an unusual squared-off style that is completely unique to Scion.

Rounding out the available product line is the Scion xA, a well-built, quiet-running, gas-sipping, sedan. The xA may not have the street creds of the xB or tC, but it is still a nice looking machine, and it gets 32mpg city, 38mpg highway. Toyota believes it has addressed some of the desires of gen x and y with its Scion line of cars. Judging by the number of Scions we see on the street these days, one believes Toyota got it right.

Owning a Scion is a way for an individual to separate himself from the conservative, establishment image of Toyota while feeling he has made a quality purchase. Scion allows its owners to “personalize” their Scion xB by ordering an Exterior Ground Effects Kit which includes a front air dam, rocker panel extensions, and a chrome exhaust extension to be installed at the dealership or authorized shop.

Scion has the sports coupe segment covered with its tC 2-door, with a respectable 2.4 liter engine that rips up the asphalt with 160 hp. Personalize your tC with over 35 optional features including iPod controls mounted in the steering wheel. We think it was generous of Scion to offer on the Scion tC, a standard Panoramic moonroof - Ah-Oooo.

Shanghai Auto Show is the Florid hatchback from China’s Great Wall Motors. What’s surprising about the Florid is the fact that it actually copies the design of two vehicles, bonding in a uniquely Chinese way, the body of a Scion xA to the front end of a current generation Toyota Yaris. Inside, the Chinese automaker preferred to keep things simple, maintaining the original Scion xA’s dashboard layout.

Toyota’s seemingly youthful Scion brand has cranked out more limited/special edition models than we can remember, but it all it comes to an end for this year with the market launch of the new xD Release Series 2.0 that’s due to arrive at dealer showrooms later this month. Scion said that it will only build 1,600 units of the xD RS 2.0 that is offered exclusively in what the firm calls ‘Electric Wasabi’ green exterior paint. More like ‘washed out green’ if you ask us, but whatev.

This compact fuel efficient car is quickly becoming a favorite amongst a younger generation of drivers due to its low sticker price, great gas mileage and youth oriented standard interior and exterior features. Those of a more mature age range are also beginning to appreciate its capability as an excellent commuter car as well as a safety rich vehicle for their offspring. The 5 door economy hatchback has a high fun to drive factor and enough overall utility to make it one of the top competitors to the popular Honda Fit Sport.

Based upon the Toyota Yaris platform, the xD is available in only one trim and with one engine. The 1.8 liter 4 cylinder engine delivers an impressive 128 horsepower that is rated at 27/33 mpg with a manual transmission and 21/38 mpg with the automatic.

Despite its smaller size, it is hard to miss the bold, athletically designed front end and wide stance of the 2008 Scion XD. Its dominant posture is highlighted by 16 inch steel wheels with a choice of three different covers and bold exterior colors which include a Nautical Blue Metallic, Super White and an especially striking Barcelona Red Metallic. Its aggressive looking exterior is complimented by a feature rich interior that includes a 60/40 split back seat, a six speaker Pioneer audio system that accommodates CDs and includes an MP3 player as well as a dedicated iPod port. Additional standard features include power windows and doors, tilt steering wheel, air conditioning and cruise control. Options include a sporty rear spoiler, touch screen navigation system, leather wrapped steering wheel and interior mood lighting that is available in a choice of four colors.

Its high level of customization is only overshadowed by its inadequate engine model. However, base priced at around $14,650, the xD is more affordable than the majority of the comparables. The youthful buyer will find that the 2009 xD’s inimitable style is a good match, but the more mature consumer might deem the model to be a bit too flamboyant. Also, with 27 city MPG and 33 highway MPG, the xD is comparable to several hybrid vehicles on the market, making it a great pick for the eco-conscious buye.

Full airbag coverage protects all five passengers in the model as well. Usually an upgrade in other models, an MP3 compatible audio system with CD changer is standard in the xD too.

Personalization of the Scion xD is not only available, it is encouraged by the maker. With options like a five-axis lip kit, Putco grille inserts, Racing Code decals, and a great number of techie upgrades, each buyer can give the xD their own exclusive combinations. Pilot neon accents add ambient lighting around the stereo system and climate controls, while an Alpine Blackbird navigation unit is removable and can be taken with drivers into any other vehicle as well. This gives the navigation unit a functionality that in-dash systems lack and saves drivers the added expense of fitting all of their vehicles with a unit.

Potential buyers looking for impressive power may want to look at any of the other options on the market. However, those whose primary focus is styling will find that the Scion xD is hard to beat. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, but buyers can upgrade to a four-speed automatic with overdrive. Even with transmission options, consumers might still be disappointed that only one trim level is offered.

Nevertheless, Scion makes up in standard features what it lacks in drive train. Power windows and locks, cruise control, and a tire pressure monitoring system are all included. Also, the Scion xD has active head restraints.

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