Best Car Reviews - 2013 Scion xD

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Introduction

The 2013 Scion xD is a five-door subcompact hatchback aimed at buyers who wanted Toyota-based dependability, a manual gearbox, and a more individual look than a typical economy car. Its 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine, roomy-for-its-size rear seat and extensive accessory catalogue helped it stand out, although it faced stronger rivals for cargo flexibility and fuel economy.

Design and Exterior Features

The xD has a short, upright hatchback shape with a blunt nose, wide stance and square rear end. At 154.7 inches long, 67.9 inches wide and 59.4 inches high, it is easy to place in town while still offering four doors and a practical rear hatch. The 2013 model carried over largely unchanged, retaining the previous model’s sporty details and customisation-friendly personality.

Five-door hatchback body with rear spoiler and rear-window wiper.
16-inch wheels and all-season tyres on the manual model.
Halogen headlamps and power mirrors with LED turn-signal indicators.
Chrome-tipped exhaust and a wide, planted visual stance.

Interior and Comfort

The cabin is functional rather than luxurious, with dark plastics, metallic-look trim and a straightforward centre stack. Front sport seats and generous headroom suit everyday use, while the rear seat can slide, recline and fold 60/40. Taller drivers should try the seating position before buying, as the steering wheel tilts but does not telescope. Cargo space is modest at 10.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 35.7 cubic feet with it folded.

Cloth front sport bucket seats and a five-passenger layout.
60/40 split-folding, sliding and reclining rear seat.
Air conditioning, cruise control, power windows, locks and mirrors.
Useful small-item storage, including a phone and music-player tray.

Performance and Handling

This front-wheel-drive xD uses a 1.8-litre DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder with variable valve timing, producing 128 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque. The standard five-speed manual is the more engaging choice; independent testing recorded 0-60 mph in 8.4 seconds. Ride quality is composed for city commuting, but the handling is competent rather than especially playful. EPA estimates are 27 mpg city, 33 mpg highway and 29 mpg combined, equivalent to about 8.7, 7.1 and 8.1 L/100 km respectively. The supplied 10.3 L/100 km figure is plausible as a real-world consumption result, but is higher than the official combined estimate.

128-hp 1.8-litre inline-four engine.
Standard five-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive.
Independent front suspension and torsion-beam rear suspension.
Ventilated front-disc and rear-drum brakes.

Technology and Connectivity

The xD’s standard Pioneer audio system included Bluetooth, USB connectivity, auxiliary input, HD Radio capability and steering-wheel audio controls. Available equipment included the BeSpoke Premium Audio system with a 5.8-inch touch-screen and app-based services. This is period-correct technology rather than a modern connected-car system: there is no standard smartphone integration, Wi-Fi hotspot, reversing camera or advanced driver-assistance suite.

Standard 160-watt Pioneer audio system with six speakers.
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming.
USB/iPod connection and auxiliary audio input.
Available BeSpoke touch-screen premium audio system.

Safety Features

Standard safety equipment includes antilock brakes, electronic stability control, traction control, front-seat side airbags, side-curtain airbags for both rows and active front head restraints. The xD earned Good ratings in the IIHS moderate-overlap frontal, side-impact and roof-strength evaluations, and it was named an IIHS Top Safety Pick. It does not offer the automatic emergency braking, lane support or blind-spot monitoring expected on many newer cars.

Stability and traction control through Scion’s Star Safety System.
Antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.
Front side airbags and two-row side-curtain airbags.
Active front head restraints and a tyre-pressure monitoring system.

Pricing and Variants

The 2013 xD manual had a starting MSRP of $16,500 in the United States. The main choices were the standard manual or optional four-speed automatic, plus the limited 10 Series anniversary edition; factory and dealer accessories offered much of the personalisation. Against a 2013 Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Sonic, Hyundai Accent or Kia Rio, the xD offered more standard equipment and a stronger engine than some rivals, but the Fit was more versatile and several competitors delivered better fuel economy.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Strong 128-hp engine for a subcompact hatchback.
Standard five-speed manual transmission.
Useful sliding and reclining rear seat.
Generous standard convenience and audio equipment for its era.
Good IIHS crash-test performance and Toyota-derived mechanical reputation.

Cons

Fuel economy trails the best subcompact rivals.
Limited cargo space compared with the Honda Fit and some hatchback competitors.
Upright driving position may not suit taller drivers.
Four-speed automatic option is dated.
No modern active safety technology or smartphone integration.

Maintenance and Common Issues

RepairPal estimates average annual repair and maintenance costs at about $344, though age, mileage, location and previous care can change that substantially. Complaint data for the 2013 model is limited, so there is no well-established list of five high-frequency defects. Sensible used-car inspection points include EVAP-system warning lights or P0441-type leak concerns, ignition-coil or misfire symptoms, wheel or hub noise, steering feel or alignment concerns, and worn seat cushions or uncomfortable seating. Confirm that all recall work has been completed by VIN and inspect service records before purchase.

Rating

Overall rating: 7.3/10. Design: 7.0/10. Comfort: 7.0/10. Performance: 7.5/10. Technology: 6.5/10. Safety: 8.0/10. The xD is an honest, well-equipped small hatchback with a useful manual option, but it is no longer class-leading in efficiency, cargo versatility or technology.

User Reviews and Feedback

Owner feedback commonly centres on long-term dependability, easy urban use and appreciation for the manual transmission. Opinions are more mixed on cabin ergonomics, cargo space and fuel economy, particularly when compared with newer subcompacts.

Owners often value the Toyota-related reliability reputation and straightforward mechanical layout.
The manual transmission is generally seen as a worthwhile choice for driver involvement.
Many appreciate the rear seat’s sliding and reclining function.
Some find the front seating position, steering-wheel adjustment and gauge layout awkward.
Fuel use and cargo capacity can disappoint buyers expecting best-in-class practicality.

Best Cars in This Category

2013 Honda Fit
2013 Ford Fiesta
2013 Chevrolet Sonic
2013 Hyundai Accent
2013 Kia Rio

Summary

The 2013 Scion xD is best for a buyer seeking an affordable used hatchback with a manual transmission, standard convenience features and an individual style. It remains appealing when condition and maintenance history are strong, especially for city use, but shoppers who prioritise maximum cargo room, top fuel economy or current safety technology should compare it closely with newer alternatives.