What is it? Scion jumps ahead a few letters with its xA replacement, the xD. Like the xA, this four-door hatchback is designed to appeal to youthful, urban drivers with a focus on value and fuel efficiency. The xD is incrementally larger, boasting almost in inch in length and width over the xA. Height is the same. The greatest dimensional distinction is with the wheelbase, where the xD has an almost four-inch advantage.
The xD has a bit more power, with a 128-hp, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, compared against the xA’s buzzy 103-hp, 1.5-liter four. Transmission choices are a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic.
What is new or notable: Like all Scions, the xD will come nearly “mono spec,” meaning there’s only one basic configuration. All include air conditioning, a 160-watt stereo with iPod compatibility, remote keyless entry, power windows, locks, and mirrors, and turn indicators in the side mirrors. On the safety front, the xD includes four-wheel antilock brakes, seat-mounted side air bags, side-curtain air bags, and a first aid kit. The only factory option beyond transmission type is electronic stability control (ESC). This one-size-fits-all approach leaves personalization to the dealership and aftermarket.
CR’s take: The small xA had plenty of room for improvement. A larger engine is a welcome upgrade. We’d like to hope that the rough ride and noisy interior have been cured. Doing away with the rear quarter window, however, won’t help rear visibility. Given the price sensitivity of this model, dealers may not stock a lot of ESC-equipped vehicles. So, consumers may need to actively seek vehicles with this proven safety feature.
