Overview

Scion calls the xD an urban four-door five-passenger sub-compact. The Scion xD is endowed with a powerful engine, abundant standard facilities and a number of dealer-installed options. The 2012 Scion xD is a good choice with stylish looks, sharp handling and strong cruising elements in its category. It receives changes to both the interior and exterior.

Powertrain And Performance

The 1.8-L four-cylinder engine of the 2012 xD, with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), pumps out 128 horsepower and 125 pound feet of torque. This engine features a roller-rocker system and lightweight pistons for better fuel economy, and a piston-cooling oil jet for better efficiency. Customers can choose either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission. The fuel mileage is impressive 27/33 mpg (city/highway) with the manual transmission and one mpg less, when equipped with the automatic transmission.

Build And Styling

The 2012 Scion xD comes mono-spec with a surprising array of standard features like all Scion vehicles and the customers only need to choose exterior color and transmission type. A new honeycomb-style grille and a rear color-keyed spoiler are new exterior features. The vehicle ride height has been adjusted, and the shock absorber tuning has been optimized for enhanced handling. The interior receives a new fabric for the door panel armrest. A versatile five-door hatchback with a top-hinged liftgate which provides easy access to the rear cargo area, the Scion xD is equipped with 16-inch wheels, power windows, exterior mirrors and door locks with remote keyless entry; air conditioning, cruise control, tachometer, trip meter, 60/40 split folding rear seat, a satellite-compatible 160-watt Pioneer audio system features MP3 capability, USB connectivity and an auxiliary audio input jack for portable music devices. The cargo area is 10.5 cubic feet.

Safety Features

Four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA); Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control (TRAC); a tire pressure monitor system; driver and front-passenger dual-stage airbags; front-seat-mounted side airbags; front and rear side-curtain airbags and a first-aid kit are standard on the 2012 Scion xD.