The Scion xD subcompact receives only a few minor updates for 2010, including an upgraded 160-watt Pioneer audio system, which now includes an organic electroluminescent screen, a USB connection, and a subwoofer. In addition, the Scion xD now comes equipped with a vehicle stability control system as a standard safety feature. The system includes traction control and brake assist, which aids drivers when making emergency stops.

The front-wheel-drive, five-door Scion xD retains its wide stance and aggressive styling for 2010. The xD's front end has a sculped look, while horizontal headlights, wheel flares, side mirrors with integrated turn signals, a swept-back roofline, and chrome exhaust tips enhance the vehicle's sportiness. The xD sits on a short wheelbase, which can result in a rough ride at times, depending on the road surface. However, a MacPherson strut front end and torsion-beam rear suspension help even out some of the road's imperfections.

A 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine powers the 2010 Scion xD. The engine features sequential fuel injection, variable valve timing with intelligence, and a piston-cooling oil jet, which help improve engine performance and efficiency. The powerplant produces 128 hp and 125 lb-ft of torque, and links to either a five-speed manual transmission, which comes standard, or an optional four-speed automatic. Fuel economy numbers check in at a very respectable 27/33 mpg with the manual transmission and 26/32 with the automatic.

While taller drivers might find the xD's interior cramped, especially in the back, the seats are comfortable, and interior controls are well laid-out. In addition, a wide range of features comes standard, including sport front bucket seats, air conditioning, cruise control, remote keyless entry, and a tilt steering wheel. For entertainment, the xD comes equipped with a six-speaker, 160-watt AM/FM audio system, which includes two tweeters as well as a CD player and an MP3 input jack. Steering-wheel-mounted audio controls also come standard. The rear seats split 60/40 and fold down to expand the xD's relatively meager 10.5 cubic feet of storage space behind the second row.

An optional Alpine Premium audio system includes a 4.3-inch color touchscreen and HD radio, as well as a back-up camera. It can integrate with an optional plug-in navigation system, which features voice guidance and 3D map views. Both the standard and the optional audio systems automatically adjust the volume control based on driving speed.

The Scion xD comes in a single trim, which owners can customize with a variety of options, including a leather-wrapped steering wheel, sport pedals, and an interior illumination system. Owners can also choose from optional shift knobs by OBX, TRD, or Razo, add XM satellite radio, or customize the cargo area with a cargo cover, liner, and net. Scion also offers three types of wheel covers, a rear spoiler, and carbon-fiber window trim. For a sportier ride, owners can opt for such features as a limited-slip differential, performance clutch kit, a sport muffler, and lowering springs, which reduce the xD's height by 1.5 inches.

In addition to the newly standard vehicle stability control system, safety features for the 2010 Scion xD include front seat-mounted side airbags, a driver's knee airbag, and front and rear side-curtain airbags. The Scion xD rides on 16-inch wheels.