2009 Scion xD

March 2009. Introduced in 2008, the Scion xD comes in one body style: a five-door hatchback. Marginally larger on the outside than the Scion xA it replaced, it somehow lost a bit of interior room, reviews say. Cargo space and general utility are not strong points, critics point out, and the front seats don't offer enough adjustment for tall drivers. The movable rear seat, on the other hand, is comfortable and spacious. The Scion xD's major strengths are its distinctive styling (though some may find it to be an acquired taste) personalize the vehicle for their individual needs and lifestyle. Despite the many dealer-installed options and accessories, the Scion xD comes nicely equipped in base form, auto writers say. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, power windows, cruise control, a good stereo, ABS, six airbags, front-seat active head restraints and more. Crash test scores are good. Handling and performance get mixed reviews, however. Some editors are pleased with the engine power of the Scion xD and say it has plenty of pep, while others say it struggles up hills or when passing on the highway. Many writers like the Scion hatchback's nimble maneuverability, but report that its soft suspension allows too much body lean.

Reviews say that the Scion xD feels like a more expensive, substantial vehicle, despite its affordable pricing and economy-car roots. In fact, the Scion xD shares its chassis with the Toyota Yaris (*est. $12,205 to $15,125) but is powered by a stronger, 128-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine matched with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. Test drivers are impressed with the Scion xD's fuel-economy ratings of 26-27 mpg city and 32-33 mpg highway. Reviews say the xD feels and drives much better than the Yaris, but the 2009 Honda Fit (*est. $14,750 to $16,260) offers more interior space, more refinement, more fun and advanced technology like a five-speed automatic transmission. Recommended lower-priced alternatives include the roomier 2009 Nissan Versa (*est. $9,990 to $16,330) or 2009 Suzuki SX4 (*est. $13,299 - $18,539), although neither of these models offers the same upscale, solid feel as the xD. Some reviews suggest paying a bit more for the 2009 Scion xB (*est. $15,750), a larger five-door wagon with plenty of style and more utility, but lower fuel economy.

Car and Driver has a comparison test of eight economy cars, in which the Scion xD places near the bottom. Cars.com has a detailed, well-written road-test review with plenty of driving impressions. Edmunds.com and ConsumerGuide.com each provide a comprehensive summary review with lists of pros and cons. Consumer Reports' thorough evaluation of the 2009 Scion xD also includes valuable information on reliability. Kelley Blue Book gives the Scion xD its Best Resale Value award and has a good summary review. TheCarConnection.com also has a descriptive review based on test driving as well as research of other published sources. MotherProof.com gives a mom's perspective on the family friendliness of the Scion hatchback.