Automotive
Scion xD: A Youthful Urban Hatch with Attitude
In 2007, Scion unveiled the xD at the Chicago Auto Show, injecting fresh energy into its compact car lineup. Positioned as the successor to the xA, the xD arrived with bolder styling, improved interior features, and a powertrain that promised greater usability for city dwellers. Known internationally as the Toyota Urban Cruiser, the xD was tailored for the North American youth market - a generation hungry for individuality, value, and tech-savvy touches, all wrapped in a distinctive hatchback form.
At first glance, the Scion xD looked like a cross between a compact hatchback and a micro-MPV. Its short hood and front overhang, along with its swept-back headlights and angular mesh-pattern grilles, gave it a surprisingly sporty character. Scion’s designers leaned heavily into sharp body lines, continuing a design language seen in earlier models like the xB. The rear of the car featured a prominent, thick C-pillar, which gave the xD a planted, muscular stance - even if it slightly hampered rearward visibility. But for Scion’s target market, style trumped practicality, and the xD delivered with a bold, boxy silhouette that looked fresh and modern.
Built with budget-conscious consumers in mind, the xD didn’t try to be flashy on the inside - but it did offer thoughtful details and customization potential. The cabin comfortably fit five passengers, though the rear seat was best suited for two adults or three younger passengers. Up front, well-contoured bucket seats offered decent support, and the dashboard featured a three-zone instrument cluster with a central speedometer that was easy to read at a glance. One of the most eye-catching features was the color-matched center stack, which allowed buyers to add a splash of exterior color inside the cabin - a rare option at this price point and something younger drivers appreciated.
As expected for an urban commuter, cargo space wasn’t the xD’s strong suit, but it offered flexibility. The rear seats folded flat, opening up space for groceries, weekend bags, or a bike with the front wheel removed. Daily tasks and light hauling were within reach, though it wasn't intended for bulkier items.
Under the hood, Scion equipped the xD with a 1.8-liter inline-four engine, sourced from the Toyota Corolla. While it didn’t deliver thrilling performance, the engine’s 128 horsepower was more than adequate for city cruising and light highway driving. More importantly, the xD offered excellent fuel economy, which kept running costs low - another key priority for younger buyers or first-time car owners. Buyers could choose between a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic, giving drivers some flexibility depending on their preferences.
Despite its modest specs, the xD excelled in one area that truly mattered: reliability. Toyota’s engineering ensured the xD was a dependable daily driver, and it came equipped with ABS, traction control, stability control, and multiple airbags. These safety features, combined with Toyota’s low-cost maintenance, made the xD a compelling value proposition.
For Scion xD owners keeping their vehicles running strong today, SherlockLock is the trusted name in automotive locksmithing. Specializing in Toyota and Scion vehicles, SherlockLock delivers expert services like key duplication, ignition repair, transponder key programming, and emergency lockout assistance - right at your location. Whether you've misplaced your keys or need a backup fob, SherlockLock ensures your xD stays secure and functional without the hassle or expense of dealership visits.
Though the Scion xD never achieved blockbuster sales, it represented a smart blend of utility, style, and economy. With its distinct design, Toyota-backed dependability, and room for personalization, the xD offered an affordable entry point into urban driving - and thanks to dedicated locksmith services from SherlockLock, keeping your xD on the road is easier than ever.
