2008 Scion Xd in Asheville, NC - $8,990

Boasting a futuristic exterior that categorizes it as a Scion with its simple surfaces and sharp lines that flow from front to rear, the xD shows its urban personality by its wide stance, thick muscular body, accentuated wheel flares and large tires. Other styling cues that set the xD apart include a long and narrow back window, and the Scion family traits – horizontal headlamps, an integrated rectangular lower and upper grill, and turn signals built into the side mirrors.

For 2012 the iconic xD five-door urban subcompact vehicle comes standard with Bluetooth® hands-free and Bluetooth® streaming audio, and HD Radio™ technology.

Power for the Scion wagon is generated by a 2ZR-FE 1.8L four-cylinder engine. Motion is communicated to the pavement through the standard five-speed manual gearbox. A four-speed automatic transmission is an available option.

Scion engineers designed the xD with a short, wide frame in mind for better handling and comfort. In addition, the xD features an L-arm type MacPherson strut in front and torsion beam suspension in the rear for increased stability and a pleasing ride. The wide stance of the xD sits on 16-inch steel wheels and 195/60R16 tires. The xD is equipped with front disc and rear drum brakes.

Inside the cabin, designers focused on a clean, comfortable and futuristic style. The simple dash features an instrument panel located directly in front of the driver while the center cluster – digital clock, HVAC and audio controls – flows down the center. The xD's unique, radar-like speedometer and tachometer have been consolidated into one circular gauge centered on the instrument panel. Indicator lamps, LCD fuel gauge and odometer flank the centralized gauge.

The xD features front bucket seats and 60/40 fold flat rear seats for a level cargo space. The rear seats were designed form comfort and utility as they can slide forward and back upto six inches for additional leg room and cargo area. In addition, they can recline ten degrees and can be adjusted into five different positions.

Storage and cargo space is abundant in the xD. In front, there is a storage tray located beneath the steering wheel, a small box in the front of the center console for holding portable music players or cell phones, an upper and lower glove box, and a driver's side change box. A hidden storage space is located under the rear cargo area.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 96.9; overall length: 154.7; width: 67.9; height: 60.0

All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 128 hp at 6,000 rpm and 125 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm

EPA Fuel Economy: 27 city/33 highway

Transmission: five-speed manual, four-speed automatic

Cargo capacity: 35.7 cubic feet

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, dual side curtain airbags, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, brake assist, electronic brake distribution, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, first aid kit, tire pressure monitors, remote keyless entry, traction control system, and vehicle stability control system.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile

Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2012 Scion xD starts from $15,345 for the manual and $16,145 for the automatic. Destination charges add $730.