My overall impression is that the xD improves on the xA in just about every way. The one exception that surprised me is legroom, which stays about the same. I've read comments that people think the new interior looks cheap, but this wasn't my impression. It's not quite up to the Fit, but much better than the Yaris.

Biggest advantages of the xB appear to be the larger engine and more rear seat room. The xD's instruments look quite odd, but at least they're in front of the driver.

My other impressions:

http://www.truedelta.com/blog/?p=34

 

I may be the only one that likes the center mounted gauges. I like not having to look through the steering wheel and i can drive with my hand on top of the wheel without blocking the gauges. Having them in the center is pretty dang handy!

One fact remains though, the XA is still WAY better looking than the XD!

Hodakguy

 

I love the center mount gauges, anyone who complains about how odd or stupid they are are not real car people. there just robots following what their programmed to see as cool or functional for the rest of their lives.

xA is way better looking than xD too.

Good thing, cause xD is not 2nd gen xA.

Long Live the glorious xA forever!!!

 

After a more thorough review of the specs (no interior dimensions yet), I suspect that the xD is intended to replace both the xA and the current xB. The new xB is not only quite a bit larger than the old one, but over 600 pounds heavier. Suddenly it's clear why it now has a 2.4-liter engine.

With the gains in size, weight, and power, I suspect that the price will also go up quite a bit. What if current xB owners don't like the heavier, more closed-in feel of the new xB? Then they'll be steered towards the xD.

The usability of centrally-located instruments depends a lot on the execution. My reviews of the xA and xB don't critique the instruments, so I must not have had a problem with their location. I do remember having a problem with centrally-located instruments in the Saturn Ion, Toyota Yaris, and Nissan Quest.

 

Is it just me, or does anyone else think the new xD looks like the Porche converted into a hearse in the movie, "Harold & Maude"?

 

I'm afraid it's been years since I saw that movie. Got a pic?

 

My thought exactly. I'd definitely choose the xD over the new xB as a replacement for my current xB.

Seems like the new xB is going after a different market than the original. Bigger and more powerful to compete with Element, HHR, PT Cruiser, Mazda 3 wagon. From those choices, I'd probably pick the new xB.

Although I really don't like those big C pillars with no window in the cargo area on either model- reminds me of a VW Golf or something. Maybe it'll grow on me by the time I'm ready to buy. I didn't like the original xB when it first came out either.

 

are you talking about the front or the rear? cause the rear was a lot roomier compared to the A. i pushed the front seats all the way back and sat in the back and i had a good 3" of knee room and i'm 5'10".

getting in and out was easier. it had more head, hip and legroom compared to the A and its great that you can recline and slide the rear seats.

 

I think Scion took a wrong direction with these models, the xB is definitely better looking but bleh the 2.4L engine? What for, is the mileage as good as the original xB?

I'm slightly disappointed, but planning to visit the show tomorrow to see in person so I might change my mind.

I prefer the center console too. Guess I'll end up buying a used xB when the time comes...

 

Same here. I don't like anything about the 2008 xB -- not the extra size, weight, power and cost, and especially NOT the high beltline rising upward to the rear. It looks weird on the xB but good on the xD.
If I had to replace my 2006 xB, I would get the xD. It's slightly increased size and power are just right, and I like the looks.

 

Overall, I'd agree-- I prefer the xD more; the size is better, and the engine's more fuel efficient. The only thing I'd want that only the xB has is that multi-information display. D:

 

mkaresh is mostly promoting his website and service, for free, by posting to every forum known to world of man. So dont get annoyed that he doesnt know what he is talking about about xA or xD or xB...

 

Here is a photo of the legroom in the back seat of an xD - what happened?
http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.au...ionxd---20.jpg

 

The near seat in the picture is when the seats are moved forward for greater storage capability. I think the seat on the far end is more realistic.

 

adjustable rear seat!!!

 

Yeah, pretty cool. Here is a blurb from the press release.