2010 Scion xD is a Customizable Fuel Sipper
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Are you looking for a stylish and compact car that's long on available features and short on trips to the gas station? If so, then you'll likely find much to love about the 2010 Scion xD.
In a vehicle category that has historically been geared towards affordability and bare bones feature packages, the Scion xD brought a fresh take to the compact market when it debuted in 2007 by putting style and appearance above all else. This philosophy has since caught on, and these days the stylish Scion family has plenty of youth-oriented competitors.
The trendsetting 2010 Scion xD returns with an eye-catching hatchback design and laundry list of a la carte add-ons. If you want a car that can be outfitted with such cosmetic touches as ambient lighting, illuminated logos, sport peddles and customized shift knobs, then you'll be pleased with the packages offered by the Scion xD.
The Scion xD carries the same platform as the less expensive Toyota Yaris. However, the xD is eons beyond the economy-based Yaris in terms of comfort and amenities. Standard features such as power windows, power mirrors, cruise control and a sporty suspension all add up to make the $14,900 base MSRP well worth the price difference.
Under the hood, the xD boasts a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 128 horsepower. While no one would describe the xD's performance as exhilarating, the vehicle offers plenty of zip for average day-to-day driving. Think of the Scion xD as a capable around-town commuter, and you'll have a good idea of what to expect when you climb behind the wheel.
If you prefer a little more get up and go in your compact ride, you might consider test-driving the 2010 Mazda MAZDA3. For just a few hundred dollars more, the MAZDA3 offers a ride that is oodles more fun than the Scion xD.
The EPA estimates the Scion xD's fuel consumption at 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. While a few other compacts have these figures beat, the xD remains a solid performer in the field of fuel efficiency. For those who prefer to put their carbon footprint above all else, look into the competitively priced Honda Fit. It offers better fuel efficiency, a similar slant towards styling and nearly as many customization options as the Scion xD.
While the interior of the xD is cosmetically appealing with a smart dash and sport bucket seats, the functionality of the cabin area may prove insufficient for some drivers. The rear seat does offer sliding and reclining capabilities - a unique feature in the compact class - however this does little to improve the comfort of the tight-quartered rear seating area. At a maximum of 35.7 cubic feet, cargo area is handily beaten by several competitors as well.
If you find the Scion xD doesn't leave you with enough room to spread out, consider checking out the Scion xB or Kia Soul. Both offer roomier interiors and added cargo area. The Honda Fit also receives praise for its storage capabilities.
For 2010, Toyota adds vehicle stability control as a standard feature. Safety hounds will welcome this boost in crash protection. Other standard safety features available on the xD include traction control, anti-lock brakes, six airbags and brake assist.