Scion today debuted for the first time its 2012 xD Release Series 4.0 (xD RS 4.0) and xB Release Series 9.0 (xB RS 9.0) models at the 2011 State Fair of Texas. The two limited production Scions will begin arriving at dealer showrooms in October. Scion is also pleased to announce that all 2012 Scion models will come standard with a new Pioneer™ audio system that features Bluetooth® hands-free, Bluetooth® streaming audio and HD Radio™ technology. Both models will be on display in the Scion booth at the State Fair of Texas until October 23.

Scion xD RS 4.0

2012 xD Release Series 4.0
The 2012 xD Release Series 4.0 (xD RS 4.0) comes exclusively in a premium Blizzard Pearl exterior paint and is upgraded with 16-inch alloy wheels that are finished in a smoked platinum color.

The xD’s Blizzard Pearl paint makes its way into the interior with color-tuned trim pieces on the center console, steering wheel and door panels. The seats are wrapped in a distinctively patterned soft-touch material and feature white stitching. Finally, the xD will include carpeted floor and cargo mats featuring the Release Series logo and white stitching around the border. Each xD RS 4.0 features an individually numbered badge.

Scion will only build 800 units of the xD RS 4.0. The limited edition model will carry a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $16,250 and $17,050 when equipped with a manual and automatic transmission respectively. The MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $730.

Scion xB RS 9.0

2012 xB Release Series 9.0
The 2012 xB Release Series 9.0 comes painted exclusively in Hot Lava, making sure it attracts attention wherever it goes. The xB’s hot exterior is paired with a unique honeycomb patterned lower grille that cleverly incorporates the brand name “SCION” into the mix. Upon remotely locking or unlocking the doors, the front and rear Scion badges illuminate, allowing this Release Series to be spotted easier in a parking lot at night.

The xB RS 9.0 features exclusive perforated synthetic suede front and rear seat covers that feature an embossed Scion logo and Hot Lava color-tuned highlights. The xB wears an illuminated badge that is individually numbered.

Scion will only build 1,500 units of the xB RS 9.0. The limited edition model will carry a MSRP of $18,110 and $19,060 when equipped with a manual and automatic transmission respectively. The MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $730.

Beginning on October 3, Zeus – our favorite God-of-the-Gods & creator of the High Voltage Scion tC RS 7.0 – returns to work twice as hard to introduce the xB RS 9.0 & xD RS 4.0 from the comfort of his ‘cradle’ in a :30 broadcast spot. Additional support by way of print, online & out-of-home also begins in early October. See the :30 spot at: http://www.scion.com/releaseseries.com.

The xD and xB Release Series models will come standard with an all-new AM/FM/CD/HD/USB 160-watt maximum output Pioneer™ audio system. New standard features for 2012 include HD Radio™ technology and Bluetooth® connectivity that allows both hands-free phone connection as well as streaming audio capability.

Both models come with the Scion Service Boost, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.

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The 2009 xD Release Series 2.0 comes exclusively in Electric Wasabi green exterior paint and is also distinguished with unique interior modifications. The xD features a touch screen Pioneer Audio Visual Navigation (AVN) head unit with flash memory, voice recognition, and Bluetooth®. For media player flexibility, the AVN unit comes with USB, SD card, and iPod® connectivity. The Pioneer AVN head unit is also satellite radio, rear view camera and HD Radio® ready and will play iPod videos when the parking brake is engaged. In addition, users can select from over 32,000 colors to customize the 5.8-inch high-resolution WVGA LCD touch-panel display. The driver can plan the perfect roadtrip at home by downloading the freeware application AVIC Feeds to a computer, making a personalized destination directory and then transferring the data to the headunit using SD card or USB memory device.

Electric Wasabi accents the xD’s interior with four-in-one interior lights, and “Release Series 2.0” door sills illuminated with white back lighting. Silver accented seat fabric and individually numbered badging add to the vehicle’s uniqueness.

Release Series wheel covers also distinguish this limited production xD. A color-keyed rear spoiler will be available as an option.

Scion will only build 1,600 units of the xD RS 2.0. The xD RS 2.0 model will carry a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $1,270 over the base price of the xD. The base MSRP for the standard xD with a manual transmission is $14,650, while the standard xD with an automatic transmission model carries a MSRP of $15,450. The available Electric Wasabi spoiler has a MSRP of $285, not including installation.

The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $670 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

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Beginning today, four self-service Zipcars — Toyota Matrix’s and two Scion xD’s — will be available for use 24 hours a day, seven days a week and will be located at the Fourth and Catherine parking lot, near the Ann Arbor Farmer’s Market, and at the surface parking lot at Main and William, next to Palio Restaurant. This will bring a total of 17 Zipcars to the Ann Arbor community (with 13 already located on the University of Michigan campus). All local residents 21+ can join the service, with gas, maintenance, insurance and reserved parking included in low hourly and daily rates. All University of Michigan students 18+, faculty and staff will also be able to use the four vehicles located off campus.

“Zipcars will help us to meet our goal of providing more transportation options for Ann Arbor residents,” said Ann Arbor Mayor John Hieftje.

Zipcar was selected as the community’s car sharing partner based on its superior technology and 10-year track record of providing cities and 120 universities with a proven, cost effective, and environmentally-friendly transportation solution. To support the local economy, Zipcar has contracted with Ann Arbor-based company Betty Brigade for cleaning services and also locally sourced the four new vehicles.

“The expansion of the University of Michigan program and partnership with the City, getDowntown and Chamber exemplifies how a community can work together to bring evolutionary solutions to the constituencies they serve,” said Matthew Malloy, vice president of global university operations. “Based on the tremendous success and member savings we are already seeing at the University of Michigan, we anticipate rapid adoption of the service in the downtown area.”

“Zipcars are a key component in transit systems of the future,” said Jesse Bernstein, Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce president. “People of all ages and livelihoods are viewing transit as part of their lives. Zipcars provide immediate access to a vehicle without the need to own one with all of the associated costs.”

Zipcar partnered with the Downtown Development Authority to provide a wealth of sustainable transportation options to downtown employees through the getDowntown Program. Having the flexibility of using a Zipcar to attend a meeting or run an errand will allow employees to bike, bus, walk and carpool to work with ease. When employees and downtown residents choose a Zipcar, they are freeing up valuable downtown parking spaces for visitors and shoppers.

Zipcar eliminates hundreds of dollars in monthly transportation costs, saving members an average of $600/month or $7,200/year when compared with car ownership — money that can be put toward other more relevant expenses such as tuition and housing.

Ann Arbor residents 21+ can now join Zipcar for $75 ($25 one-time application fee and $50 annual fee) and will gain access to Ann Arbor Zipcars starting at $8 per hour or $66 per day. As a special promotion, residents will receive $50 in driving credit when they sign up. All members will have access to Zipcar’s network of more than 5,500 vehicles throughout the UK and North America.

Along with residents who use Zipcar for their transportation needs, local Ann Arbor businesses can also take advantage of the value and convenience of the Zipcar for Business service. Joining Zipcar is a tangible way for area businesses to provide their employees with a convenient and cost-effective means to reduce their carbon footprint.

Those interested in learning more about Zipcar in Ann Arbor may visit www.zipcar.com/annarbor, and click on City Partners, for more information about membership and hourly rates.

About Zipcar

Zipcar is the world’s leading car-sharing service with more than 250,000 members and 5,500 vehicles in urban areas and at 120 college campuses throughout 28 North American states and provinces as well as in London, England. As a leader in urban transportation, Zipcar offers more than 30 makes and models of self-service vehicles by the hour or day to savvy city residents and businesses looking for an alternative to the high costs and hassles of owning a car in the city. In November 2007, Zipcar announced a merger with Washington D.C. based Flexcar, immediately expanding operations to more than 50 cities, and enabling future growth into new markets across the United States, Canada, and Europe. For more information, visit www.zipcar.com.

About the getDowntown Program

The getDowntown Program (www.getdowntown.org) encourages and assists downtown commuters in the use and development of sustainable transportation options. The Program is a partnership between the Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce, the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority, the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority, and the City of the Ann Arbor.

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Scion Styling Cues

The xD’s distinct exterior is characterized by the Scion family traits-horizontal headlamps, an integrated rectangular lower and upper grille, and turn signals built into the side mirrors. Other xD styling cues include its wide stance, thick muscular body, a long and narrow back window, and accentuated wheel flares. The xD rides on 16-inch steel wheels and 195/60 R16 tires. Customers can choose from three standard wheel covers which are also shared with the xB.

Spirited Performance

A snappy 1.8 L four-cylinder engine with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) generates the xD’s 128 horsepower. Customers have the choice of a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission. This 2ZR-FE engine features a roller rocker system and light weight piston for better fuel economy and a piston cooling oil jet for better efficiency. The xD’s EPA fuel economy estimates are 27 city and 33 highway for the manual transmission and 26 city and 32 highway for the automatic transmission.

The xD sits on a short, wide frame for a pleasing ride. In addition, the xD features an L-arm type MacPherson strut in the front and torsion beam suspension in the rear to help enhance control. The xD stops with front ventilated disc and rear drum brakes.

Clean Interior

The xD features a comfortable and futuristic interior. The instrument panel, located directly in front of the driver, has indicator lamps, an LCD fuel gauge, odometer and a unique, radar-like speedometer and tachometer. The digital clock, and HVAC and audio controls flow down the center console.

Storage and cargo space is plentiful with the xD. For the driver, there is a change box and storage tray located beneath the steering wheel. Other storage areas include 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 hidden storage space located below the rear cargo area. The xD also has 60/40 fold flat rear seats for a level cargo space.

For versatility, leg room and added cargo space the rear seats can slide forward and back up to six inches. The rear seats also can recline ten degrees and be adjusted into five different positions for additional comfort.

Upgraded Audio System

The xD’s standard 160-watt maximum output Pioneer audio system focuses on youth lifestyle as it features iPod connectivity and a mini-jack port located beneath the HVAC controls for easy access. This standard head unit integrates track, artist and album information from the iPod into a one-line display on the head unit’s screen. Connectivity is achieved by simply plugging the iPod into a port via a connector cable, providing outstanding sound quality through the car’s stereo system and constant power to the iPod. Music is controlled through the head unit and the steering wheel audio control buttons. The mini-jack port allows users to listen to their portable music collection through the xD’s Pioneer speakers.

The xD’s optional Pioneer Premium audio system adds several features to the standard head unit, including the ability to download “skins” to play on the organic electroluminescent (OEL) screen. Customers can download images, four-second video clips and eight-second movies from Pioneer’s website. In addition, Pioneer software allows customers to burn their own images and movies onto a CD and upload them onto the available head unit. The faceplate light also changes from deep orange to blue at the touch of a button.

Since many Scion customers add in-car entertainment systems to their vehicle, the xD’s optional Premium audio system has head unit outputs in the rear allowing for the addition of external amps to boost power to additional speakers and subwoofers. All head unit features remain unchanged if this feature is used.

Both the standard and premium head units retain key Scion audio system features such as Scion Sound Processing (SSP) where listeners can choose from three pre-set equalizer settings, satellite radio compatibility, a user-customizable welcome screen, MP3 and WMA capability, Automatic Sound Leveling (ASL) and Sound Retouch Technology (SRT), which provides clearer CD sound quality. Both systems feature six speakers: a tweeter and a speaker in each front door panel, plus two full-range speakers in the rear.

The Scion navigation system featuring a 160-watt maximum power audio/video/navigation unit with seven-inch LCD touch screen is also available.

Generous Mono Spec Features

Like all Scion vehicles the xD comes mono spec with a surprising array of standard features. Customers only need to choose exterior color and transmission type, while the only factory option is Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control (TRAC). The xD’s standard features include power steering, windows, door locks and mirrors; remote keyless entry; air conditioning; four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA); a tire pressure monitor system; driver and front passenger dual stage airbags; front seat-mounted side airbags; front and rear side curtain airbags; cruise control; first-aid kit; and tilt steering wheel with audio controls.

All Scion models come with complimentary factory-recommended maintenance services at the first 5,000 mile and 10,000 mile intervals, to be performed by an authorized Scion or Toyota dealership.

Color Availability

The xD has high-quality dark charcoal interior fabric and is available in six exterior colors, Super White, Silver Streak Mica, Black Sand Pearl, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Barcelona Red Metallic and Nautical Blue Metallic.

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To date there have been 15 Release Series Scions since the first, the xB RS 1.0 in Hot Lava that debuted at the 2004 Los Angeles Auto Show. The latest Release Series whips are the xB RS 6.0 in Absolutely Red and gloss black tC RS 5.0. In between, themes have run the gamut.

2004 Scion xB Release Series 1.0: Hot Lava

The xB Release Series 1.0 is easily spotted by its vibrant orange, Hot Lava body color and color-keyed rear spoiler. A matching orange powder-coated strut tower bar enhances handling, while a billet grille completes the urban utility vehicle’s tuner look.

The Hot Lava’s cabin is illuminated with orange under-dash, under-seat and cup holder lighting, and further distinguished with subtle black seat fabric boasting orange highlights. Approximately 2,100 units of the Scion xB RS 1.0 were produced.

2005 Scion xA Release Series 1.0: Absolutely Red

The xA Release Series 1.0 pops to life via its Absolutely Red body that features a trick sports grille and color-keyed rear spoiler. A power moonroof, plus vehicle stability control (VSC) with traction control (TRAC), enhances the urban five-door subcompact’s overall motoring capabilities. To get the most of its drive-train, the xA RS 1.0 rides on a set of 17-inch, six-spoke Enkei alloy wheels wrapped in 205/40R17 Yokohama Avid H4S tires.

The xA interior is distinguished with a subtle, black seat fabric with red highlights, along with red lighting in the center storage compartment. Just 1,550 units of the xA Release Series 1.0 were produced.

2005 Scion xB Release Series 2.0: Solar Yellow

The most retina challenging of the RS models is the bright Solar Yellow xB Release Series 2.0. Exterior features include color-keyed side mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators, color-keyed rear spoiler, a tunable sport muffler, and a metal sport mesh grille.

Inside the urban utility vehicle, stainless steel xB RS 2.0 appliqués line the door sills and black fabric with yellow accents are designed to match the brilliant yellow exterior paint. Just 2,500 units of the Scion xB RS 2.0 were made.

2005 Scion xA Release Series 2.0: Spectra Blue

All xA Release Series 2.0 vehicles glisten thanks to their bright Spectra Blue Mica exteriors. Standard features include a distinctive sports grille, fog lights, and a color-keyed rear spoiler.

Inside, black fabric with blue accents complements the exterior. A blue interior lighting kit and xA Release Series 2.0 embroidered floor mats round out the package. Only 1,700 units of the Scion xA RS 2.0 hit the streets.

2005 Scion tC Release Series 1.0: Absolutely Red

The 2005 tC Release Series 1.0 rolls on P225/40ZR18 tires wrapped around 18-inch Enkei alloy wheels in a dark graphite finish. The front fascia receives unique upper and lower grilles. Pop the hood and admirers are greeted by a splattering of red in the form of a battery tie down, billet oil filler cap, and front strut tie bar.

Black sport seats with red highlights carry the Absolutely Red exterior into the passenger cabin. A cargo mat, embroidered tC Release Series 1.0 floor mats, and brushed aluminum Release Series 1.0 door sills come standard. Only 2,500 units of the Scion tC RS 1.0 were produced.

2006 Scion xB Release Series 3.0: Envy Green

The xB Release Series 3.0’s vivid Envy Green paint makes it a standout. Other cool elements include a solid, color-keyed Aero Speed grille, seven-spoke wheel covers, and a color-keyed rear spoiler.

Inside, an Alpine DVD audio/video receiver with an extended range six-speaker system and one-inch soft dome tweeters pump out the tunes. The system features Apple iPod connectivity and can playback various formats of CDs and DVDs. The xB RS 3.0 is also equipped with XM Satellite Radio.

The focal point of the 3.0 is its Vizualogic Dual Headrest Rear Seat Entertainment System with seven-inch LCD monitor mounted on the back of each front seat headrest and two infrared wireless headphones. A keyless Scion Security System helps protect this well-equipped xB. Only 2,200 units of the xB Release Series 3.0 were constructed.

2006 Scion tC Release Series 2.0: Blitz Blue Mica

The 2006 tC Release Series 2.0 is doused in a brilliant Blue Blitz Mica. Custom features include a stainless steel mesh upper and lower front grille treatment and 17-inch satin metallic finished alloy wheels.

Inside, the tC’s front and rear seats are trimmed in black Alcantara^® material. Tunes flow from a Pioneer Premium AM/FM/CD audio system with iPod connectivity and color-changing LED display. The tC RS 2.0 is also equipped with XM Satellite Radio. Also standard is a six-inch Pioneer subwoofer mounted in the under-floor storage area, keeping it out of sight and leaving the cargo floor clear. The production run of this special tC was 2,600 units.

2006 Scion xA Release Series 3.0: Stingray Metallic

The 2006 xA Release Series 3.0 features a stunning Stingray Metallic light blue exterior paint and attractive front and rear KenStyle^® ground effects, Release Series wheel covers, color-tuned seat fabric, and a rear spoiler. Scion produced 2,500 units of the Stingray Metallic xA subcompact.

2006 Scion xB Release Series 4.0: Torched Penny

The Scion xB Release Series 4.0’s Maziora Torched Penny paint, a color-shifting finish that changes depending on your viewing angle and how light plays off the car’s surface, really turns heads. The 4.0 also flexes a rear spoiler, Modellista speed grille, rear bumper protector and RS wheel covers.

Inside, custom floor mats announce this is no mere mortal xB, if the multicolor dash lighting, new shift knob (MT only) and standard-issue numbered plaque don’t already give it away. The production run for the Torched Penny xB was 2,500 units.

2007 Scion tC Release Series 3.0: Blizzard White

It’s easy to chill out in the frosty Blizzard Pearl white tC Release Series 3.0. You’ll get looks too as this tC is decked out with a front and rear KenStyle^® ground effects. Other exterior features include darkened headlights and a custom wide intake-style upper grille with a honeycomb insert that matches the lower grille.

The tC RS 3.0 is adorned with sporty black Alcantara seats detailed with a gray perforated center seating surface on a white background. The cargo-mounted six-inch Pioneer subwoofer from the tC RS 2.0 makes a return appearance. Only 2,500 units of the tC Release Series 3.0 rolled off of assembly lines.

2008 Scion xB Release Series 5.0: Gold Rush Mica

The xB Release Series 5.0 features dazzling Gold Rush Mica exterior paint, a trick body kit from renowned Japanese body tuner KenStyle^®, the first xB moonroof, and RS wheel covers.

Inside, the xB features Gold Rush Mica accented interior trim and color-tuned seat fabric. Only 2,500 units of the xB Release Series 5.0 were sent to showroom floors.

2008 Scion tC Release Series 4.0: Galactic Gray

The tC RS 4.0’s Galactic Gray Mica exterior paint is the blank canvas that Scion infused with VIP-themed enhancements. An aggressive DAMD body kit and upper grille bring home the luxury/sport theme of the VIP scene.

Inside, the tC RS 4.0 secures driver and passenger in gray and black wrapped Alcantara^® bucket seats, and all seating surfaces get custom embroidered logos. A leather-wrapped steering wheel and a black leather and dark wood RAZO shift knob complete the look. The tC RS 4.0 production run resulted in 2,300 units.

2008 Scion xD Release Series 1.0: Hot Lava

The first Release Series xD, the 2008 xD RS 1.0, features Hot Lava exterior paint, a DAMD body kit, rear spoiler, Release Series wheel covers and TRD lowering springs.

Inside, the xD RS 1.0 continues its volcanic theme with Hot Lava accented seats and interior trim, and a RAZO Release Series shift knob. Production was limited to 2,000 units.

2009 Scion xB Release Series 6.0: Absolutely Red

Approximately 2,500 2009 xB Release Series 6.0 are sprayed exclusively in Absolutely Red and feature a unique front grille with custom black finish. Special Release Series wheel covers differentiate this limited production xB, as does an available color-keyed rear spoiler option.

Inside, the xB RS 6.0 features a touch-screen Pioneer Audio Visual Navigation (AVN) head unit with flash memory, voice recognition, MSN Direct, and Bluetooth^®. For media player flexibility, the AVN unit comes with USB, SD card, and iPod connectivity. The Pioneer AVN head unit is also satellite radio and HD Radio ready and will play DVDs and iPod videos when the gear selector is in park.

Absolutely Red makes its mark inside the xB as well with color-tuned four-in-one interior lights, RS 6.0 illuminated door sills, and accented interior trim and color-tuned seat fabric. The xB RS 6.0 is also equipped with a rear cargo cover.

2009 Scion tC Release Series 5.0: Gloss Black

The tC Release Series 5.0 in gloss black is the only limited-run tC for 2009. The car’s theme is Toyota Racing Development (TRD), so performance will be at its heart.

Trick TRD-edition 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, in matte black with red trim, and red TRD lowering springs provide this tC with its menacing presence. For additional stability when cornering, the tC is fitted with a red TRD rear sway bar. A TRD sport muffler gives the tC RS 5.0 an aggressive sound signature, while a TRD exterior badge marks the car. A black rear lip spoiler will be available as an option.

The TRD theme rolls on in the cabin where a black leather steering wheel featuring red stitching, black seats with red accents, and floor mats with the TRD logo. The tC RS 5.0 is also equipped with a cargo mat. Like all Release Series models individually numbered badging ensures the uniqueness of this vehicle. No more than 2,000 units of the RS 5.0 tC will be produced.

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Yes, I know that gas is now below $2 at the pump, and some statistics indicate that consumers are moving back to SUVs and trucks. But that’s misleading and likely the result of huge rebates and incentives the Big Three are offering to move that product. Most serious analysts, including one from GM I talked to, think that gas prices will go up again and that the move to smaller, more fuel-efficient cars is permanent.

Obviously, a $15 billion interim buyout is not going to reposition GM, Ford and Chrysler as green companies. Much of the money will go down a debt rathole. But with new leadership in place and a dose of reality, the carmakers may finally be moving in the right direction.

The car I’m driving is the Scion XD, yours in loaded form for just $17,358. What are the American competitors? I like the Saturn Astra, and the Ford Focus has some virtues, but it’s hard to identify many other credible entries. (The Pontiac Solstice is a good car, but not really a flag-waving North American.) This is a category where Detroit needs to excel. Other Asian entries include the Mazda3, Kia Rio5, Nissan Versa, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Yaris and Corolla, really the list goes on and on.

I don’t always like Japanese car styling: Honda messed up the back end of the new Fit, for example. The Scion xB looked better in its first incarnation, but the xD is cool-looking and modern in a youthful way. That younger market segment is clearly in the sights, because the car comes standard with both an aux-in for a media player and a connector that both plays and recharges an iPod.

The 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine produces a modest 128 horsepower, but it’s enough to move this little car with spirit, even when the gears are stirred through a four-speed automatic transmission. The direct benefit is 26 mpg in the city and 32 on the highway.

This is a very good, practical small car. The controls are well laid-out, the back seat happily seats three, the cargo area is adaptable and sizable, and visibility is excellent all around. The level of safety equipment, which includes standard ABS brakes with electronic force distribution, side-curtain airbags, active front headrests, a tire pressure monitoring system and even a first aid kit, impresses me. Clearly, here’s a standard to match for our on-the-brink automakers.

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Scion’s xD five-door hatchback is the self-described youth brand’s smallest, cheapest, and most fuel-efficient small car. The xD bowed in 2007 as a 2008 model, serving as a replacement for the outgoing xA and joining the second-generationand the aging coupe in the Scion lineup. As the xD enters its second-year on the market, the car could start to gain more traction as yet another frugal alternative that offers decent utility as well as customization options aimed at the kids.

Providing power to the 2009 xD’s front wheels is Toyota’s 2ZR-FE 1.8L four-cylinder utilizing Variable Valve Timing and Toyota Direct Injection good for 128 hp and 125 lb-ft. It is available with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. With the manual shifter, the xD achieves of 27 mpg city and 33 highway, while in automatic form, the car gets 26 city and 32 highway.

The 2009 xD’s exterior design features familiar Scion cues such as wraparound horizontal headlamps, a narrow rear window, integrated rectangular lower and upper grilles, and exterior rearview mirrors with built-in turn indicators. Despite its small size, the xD’s stance appears wide and stout thanks in part to its pronounced wheel arches and minimized overhangs. Six different exterior colors — Super White, Silver Streak Mica, Black Sand Pearl, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Barcelona Red Metallic and Nautical Blue Metallic — and two different 16-in. wheel cover designs are offered for the xD.

Keeping the “fresh” theme deemed attractive to its young buyers is a dark charcoal interior said by Scion to be comfortable and futuristic. Finding their way into xD’s cabin are multiple storage spaces, including a useful split-level glovebox. Folding rear seats can lie flat in a 60/40 configuration allowing for more storage space. Standard on the xD is a 160 watt Pioneer audio system with iPod/auxiliary port. Buyers looking for a bit more bump and flare can opt for the premium Pioneer system featuring an electroluminescent (OEL) screen. The OEL screen allows owners to upload a variety of wallpapers from Scion’s Web site or from its own personal image library. Unique on the premium unit is its ability to be used in conjunction with aftermarket amplifiers and subwoofers via extra outputs.

With its Scion brand, Toyota has implemented what it calls “mono spec” features, meaning all a buyer need specify is the car’s exterior color and transmission type. All other features are standard, including power steering/windows/door locks/mirrors, remote keyless entry, air-conditioning, four-wheel anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, a tire-pressure-monitor system, driver and front-passenger dual-stage airbags, front-seat-mounted side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, cruise control, first-aid kit, and tilt steering wheel with audio controls.

Optional on the xD is Stability Control with Traction Control. Of course, in true Scion fashion, there are over 40 different accessories from TRD, Scion Genuine, and Five Axis if you want to set your xD apart from the pack. All the kids are doing it.

Although Scion sales have been on the decline of late, company officials have optimistic sales expectations for the xD. We wouldn’t be surprised if the xD brings in more of the 18-to-24-year-old hipsters the brand continues to covet, especially if fuel prices continue to remain high. Sales of the 2009 xD are underway, with a base MSRP for 2009 that grows by $100 to $14,560.

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Search by Make/Model:

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Because the site provides the latest live auctions from eBay, you will need to register on eBay.com to complete your purchase. Click here to register. Be sure to bookmark your favorite page(s) on ScionTRD.com because the site is automatically updated with the latest items for sale. Whether you’re searching for OEM products, TRD performance parts, or parts and accessories from other aftermarket manufacturers, be sure to check ScionTRD.com for the best deals.

ScionTRD.com is also a NOPI Authorized Dealer, which means you can visit ScionTRD.com and then search by make, then year to find performance parts available from a trusted name in the automotive industry.

URLs: http://www.ScionTRD.com & http://www.TRDScion.com

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To ‘raise awareness’ of Scion’s new 2008 xD Release Series 1.0 (MSRP $17,169), specially attired street teams will be targeting urban hangouts (those shields might prove useful) in select areas, attempting to (in Scion’s words) ‘engage young trendsetters’, handing out ear buds and Hot Lava-colored socks. Not for the feet, of course. Young trendsetters need such socks for their iPods and sundry MP3 players.

Why Hot Lava? This burnt orange hue is the color the xD RS 1.0 comes in. The interior also has some Hot Lava accents on the center console, steering wheel and various bits of trim. Scion will only be making 2,000 of this limited-edition model. Other bespoke features include a DAMD body kit, Toyota Racing Development (TRD) lowering series, Release Series wheel covers and a rear spoiler. The cabin also gets a Razo Release Series shift knob and a holographic badge bearing the car’s individual number.

The xD has a 1.8-liter engine (don’t let the 1.0 in the RS name fool you), that sips fuel to the tune of 27/33 mpg (city/highway).

This is an auspicious time for Scion in general, as the brand celebrates five years of being in the American auto market. It launched on June 9, 2003 into 105 California dealerships. Since then, over 600,000 Scions have been sold throughout the country.

– Colin Ryan

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The microsite opens with an animation of lava erupting from a volcano in an urban landscape. The lava pours over a stock xD, and the car melts and reshapes into the Release Series vehicle. When site visitors click on steaming manhole covers, they blow open to show vehicle features.

The smoke-expelling billboards, which will roll through 12 cities, show the flaming xD RS 1.0 image. Street teams will hand out Hot Lava-themed promotional giveaway items. York-based Zenithmedia is handling the billboard placement. The effort starts with billboards in Los Angeles, Kansas City and Atlanta.

Scion started rolling out limited-edition Release Series versions of cars in 2004, a year or so after the division’s launch. The company has introduced three such vehicles this year, including a Release Series xB 5.0. Scion, of which the company made only 2,500, and an RS version of the tC.

The xB, with mica-gold exterior paint scheme, got a grassroots effort in 10 cities in California, Texas, Florida, Georgia, Oregon and Washington with teams in security uniforms driving campaign-branded armored transports. Scion made only 2,300 of the “Galactic Grey Mica”-colored tC 4.0 cars. Preordering at dealerships, which get only two or three of the vehicles, is first-come, first-serve.

“I think we have always consistently marketed the Release Series, because it’s a great avenue to be able to do cool, fun stuff and it’s also a great opportunity for Scion to get across its personalization message,” says Simon Needham, AOR Attik’s group creative director and co-founder. “Even though there are only a couple of thousand to sell, there’s a great message for reinforcing the brand.”

Karl Greenberg can be reached at karl@mediapost.com

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