The xD is the smallest and least expensive Scion, a three-car division aimed at the young and hip. With four doors and an uncommon tapered hatchback shape, the xD doesn’t look as some others in the class.

Appealing touches such as the dimpled dashboard material are found throughout the xD (MSRP $15,470), which make it interesting to look at inside and out. The tachometer is inside the speedometer in a novel and stylish arrangement.

The little xD has a cost-saving solid beam axle, and also is equipped with antilock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution (which shifts braking front to rear depending on the load in the car). Side airbags are standard, and it also offers stability control as an option. This is not your father’s bare-bones economy car.

More equipment includes cruise control, power windows, locks and mirrors, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls – even split/folding rear seats. There are three levels of audio systems, a fact that points to the desires of the youthful market at which the xD is aimed, and all are naturally available with iPod connections and auxiliary input jacks. Beyond the audio head units, optional subwoofer speakers are available, and aftermarket companies have targeted the xD with accessories tailored specifically for it like special seats and racks. Some software makers have dedicated digital video skins and images to be used by xD owners to personalize their audio experiences on the audio systems’ organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays.

From the inside, the five seating positions are comfortably upright, and generous headroom makes the car feel quite roomy.

Driving the xD offers excellent acceleration. Its 1.8-liter twin-cam four-cylinder drives the front wheels through a smooth-shifting five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. With the manual transmission, getting to 60 mph takes a quick eight seconds, and the best part is that the EPA rates the xD at 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.

The manual transmission in the xD is often preferred, mostly because the clutch is easy to modulate and the shifter is linear and direct. Braking the xD is a treat – its rear drum brakes are quick and confident.

Scion has recognized that xD owners desire individuality and has provided accessories through parent Toyota’s TRD parts division. Larger wheels and tires with unique styles of spokes, ranging from 16- to 19-inch diameters are available for the xD. Pieces that make the shifter quicker, larger brakes, stiffer and shorter springs that lower the ride height and more expressive exhaust systems can be added to the xD with the factory’s blessing. Cosmetic additions such as engine covers, pedal covers and cargo area covers are also offered.

The variety of parts available makes the 2010 Scion xD seem like a canvas waiting for a creative painter. Is that you?