2008 / 2009 Scion XD Test Drive & Review

In my continuing quest to find a suitable small vehicle to replace my 2000 Nissan Craptima, I stopped by my local Scion/Toyota dealership to take a spin in the Scion xD, a Yaris based subcompact. It replaces the Scion xA that was part of the original Scion lineup.

As luck would have it, the only xD models that the dealership had in stock were two "Release Series" limited edition Scion xD models in a reddish orange color known as "Hot Lava". The Hot Lava model (website) offers not only a special paint job, but also some modifications to the stock xD model including a Damd Body Kit, lowering springs, and color accents within the dash and the cloth of the seats.

Exterior

The Scion xD is a little more attractive on the exterior than the Playdoh fun factory minivan shape of the 2009 Honda Fit that I reviewed a few weeks ago. The xD is more wagon shaped than hatchback shaped, with a pronounced bumper leading to a sloped hood. A thick rear pillar adds to the distinctive look (but kills some rear visibility inside).

The car has mirror mounted turn signal indicators (a nice safety feature) and the side view mirrors fold in to help reduce the chance of damage. The orange paint looks sharp, but seems to suffer from the same foggy clearcoat look I've noticed in a lot of Toyota models. The xd Hot Lava model's lowered look, Damd body kit, and spoiler make the car look much sharper than the base model, but also mean you need to be on the lookout for speed bumps.

The only real knock to the exterior is the cheap plastic hubcaps on the vehicle.

Interior