Used 2014 Scion xD

The xD is a compact hatchback from Toyota’s youth-oriented Scion brand. While younger drivers will be attracted to the xD’s funky exterior styling and sub-$17,000 starting price, this small car can appeal to a wide range of buyers thanks to its flexible interior space and good fuel economy. The 5-passenger 2014 Scion xD can also offer peace of mind with its history of reliability, two years of complimentary maintenance and high resale value. That said, the xD’s light has dimmed in recent years amid fresher competitors. The Kia Rio 5-door, for instance, continues to innovate, while the xD lags with an aging powertrain and 4-speed automatic transmission. Likewise, the Nissan Versa Note appeals with a lower price and higher fuel economy, and the Fiat 500L offers Euro charm.

The latest Scion xD retains the same powerplant it’s been using since the car’s introduction for 2008. Producing 128 horsepower, the 1.8-liter 4-cylinder is adequate to move the front-wheel-drive hatchback around town without complaint. Like other economy cars, the motor strains when tackling steep hills or overtaking slower traffic. Those who want to wring the most out of the xD – and save a few dollars – should select the 5-speed manual transmission. Most buyers, however, will choose the optional automatic transmission. This setup can still do the job with its four gears but is looking aged as the xD’s competitors usher in smoother and more efficient 6-speed automatics or continuously variable transmissions (CVTs). The Scion xD is capable of handling curves and dips with ease, though rough road surfaces can become uncomfortable in this compact hatchback. Unfortunately the steering wheel does not telescope, making it harder to find the perfect driving position.

You won’t confuse the 2014 Scion xD’s interior with one from Toyota’s luxury brand, Lexus. Then again, if you wanted luxury, you wouldn’t be looking at a Scion. Where the xD excels is packing a tidy amount of space into a flexible cabin. The hatchback’s tall ceiling nullifies headroom concerns, and its 3-passenger rear seat serves up considerable legroom. In addition to folding to create more cargo space, the rear seat reclines for passenger comfort. The new touch-screen display notwithstanding, the xD’s dash remains a bit drab. The large controls are easy to use, and plenty of nooks are ready to swallow phones and other accessories.

The 2014 Scion xD may be small and not nearly as fresh as it once was, but it still packs some visual attitude. As the little brother to the Scion xB, the xD is appropriately boxy with a squat stance. Its hood is short and its beltline – where the metal sides meet the windows – is rather high. A rear hatch door opens upward for easy loading of cargo. In addition to several features like a rear spoiler and carbon-fiber applique on the B-pillar, buyers have a choice of two 2-tone paint schemes on the 2014 xD that contrast the roof and body colors

SCION DISPLAY AUDIO SYSTEM
This new unit injects the 2014 xD with fresh audio and visual appeal. The system features a 6.1-inch touch-screen display that bundles the standard AM/FM/CD receiver with an HD Radio to receive free, digital broadcasts as well as Bluetooth streaming audio, phone connectivity and USB port.

CONVENIENT STORAGE
Despite its small exterior dimensions, the xD features a profusion of storage cubbies, boxes, trays and hidden compartments for your mobile life.

Every 2014 Scion xD comes respectably equipped with power windows/door locks, air conditioning, cruise control, remote keyless entry and the new 6.1-inch touchscreen Display Audio Unit with AM/FM/CD/HD Radio and aux/USB inputs. The xD also comes with two years or 25,000 miles of complimentary maintenance such as oil changes, and two years of 24-hour roadside assistance.

Scion has long been known for offering buyers an array of features and accessories to personalize their car, and that continues with the 2014 xD. Among the offerings are a 4-speed automatic transmission that most buyers will opt for, 16- or 18-inch alloy wheels, and Scion’s BeSpoke Audio unit with navigation. The xD can also be equipped with Toyota Racing Development (TRD) hardware such as a sport muffler, rear sway bar, performance shocks and lowering springs.

Powering the 2014 Scion xD is a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers 128 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque. The Scion’s singular engine choice can be matched to a 5-speed manual or an antiquated 4-speed automatic transmission.

1.8-liter inline-4
128 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
125 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 27/33 mpg