Scion xD

Starting MSRP:$14,550
Vehicle type: hatchback
EPA fuel economy: city: 26-27 / hwy: 32-33
Available engines:
128-hp, 1.8-liter I-4
Available transmissions:
four-speed automatic five-speed manual

Urban subcompact proves big looks come in small packages
from Scion

Scion's 2008 xD is a "clever new take on the five-door urban subcompact, with style and flair to match its efficiency and utility," according to Mark Templin, Scion vice president. "The xD's aggressive styling is wrapped in a small, agile package, while its interior offers impressive details and a spacious cabin."

The xD's futuristic exterior characterizes it as a Scion, with its simple surfaces and sharp lines that flow from front to rear. Its urban personality is communicated by its wide stance, muscular body and large tires.

Engineers designed the xD with a short, wide frame for better handling and comfort.

The car features front bucket seats and 60/40 fold-flat rear seats for a level cargo space. The rear seats can slide forward and backward up to six inches for additional legroom and cargo area. They also can recline 10 degrees and be adjusted to five positions.

The xD has a storage tray beneath the steering wheel, a small box in the front of the center console for holding portable music players or cell phones, an upper and lower glove box, and a driver-side change box. A hidden storage space is below the rear cargo area.

The xD comes with generous standard features, including power steering, windows, door locks and mirrors; remote keyless entry; air conditioning; four-wheel anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist; front dual-stage air bags; front seat-mounted side air bags; front and rear side curtain air bags; a first-aid kit; a tire-pressure monitoring system and a tilt steering wheel with audio controls.

All Scion models come with free factory-recommended maintenance services at the first 5,000- and 10,000-mile intervals, performed by an authorized Scion or Toyota dealership.