2010 Kia Soul vs 2010 Scion xD December 13, 2009 AUTORIVALS.NET
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Kia's new Soul adds another competitor to the wagon/hatchback segment that Scion started with their xB and xA, now known as an xD. The xA never shared the same customers' love of its sibling, the xB, and so Scion (Toyota) decided to rename it the xD.
2010 Kia Soul vs 2010 Scion xD

The Soul takes the usual wagon/hatchback formula but applies an interesting design to it. It's actually quite handsome when you compare it to other cars in this segment. Nothing is particularly eye-catching but the overall design still catches the eye.

The xD is shorter in height and length than other vehicles in this segment which gives it a low, wide stance. It hasn't grown as large as the xB thankfully and retains its nimble dimensions. The redesigned front is more muscular than before but isn't exactly the prettiest thing out there.
The Soul's roofline is distinct and Kia actually pulls off the look. It's more angular and flat than the rest of the car and is angled slightly downward leading into a slightly large (but not too large) D-pillar. It creates a look that make the roof, D-pillar, and doors all look as if it were one piece. The xD's profile isn't as interesting and has a large (too large) C-pillar. It could benefit from an added window (like the xA had) or a rear that is more steeply raked.
The Soul's rear is the best part of the design and may be the best looking out of other wagon/hatchbacks. The clean flat shape is matched well with interesting taillights. The xD's rear is fairly generic and might appeal to a broader audience.
Kia calls the dashboard "laid back" and comes in a variety of color options such as the red/black combination shown. The center stack protrudes out rather than being flush which Kia says makes the controls easier to reach. Standard features include air conditioning, power windows and locks, USB connectivity and a free 3-month satellite radio subscription. Multiple options are available such as Bluetooth and speakers that flash lights as they play.

The xD's interior isn't as funky as the Soul or any other car in this segment. The dashboard is toned down with a more traditional look except for the uniquely styled gauge cluster. Scion offers a number of accessories (not options) that are available for the xD and all other Scions.
SPECIFICATIONS
PRICE: $13,300 - $17,195
ENGINE: 1.6L I4 - 2.0L I4
HORSEPOWER: 122 - 142 hp
TORQUE: 115 - 137 lb-ft
SIZE (L x W x H): 161.6 x 70.3 x 63.4 in.
WEIGHT: 2560 - 2820 lbs
0-60 MPH: 8.3 sec (2.0L)
1/4 MILE: 16.6 sec @ 82 mph (2.0L)
FUEL (CITY/HWY): 24-26 / 30-31mpg
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SPECIFICATIONS
PRICE: $14,650 - $15,450
ENGINE: 1.8L I4
HORSEPOWER: 128 hp
TORQUE: 125 lb-ft
SIZE (L x W x H): 154.7 x 67.9 x 60.0 in.
WEIGHT: 2625 - 2665 lbs
0-60 MPH: 7.9 sec
1/4 MILE: 16.4 sec @ 85 mph
FUEL (CITY/HWY): 26-27 / 32-33 mpg
RECAP RECAP

PROS
+Interesting design that looks good
+Best looking rear
+Interior customization

CONS
-Still won't appeal to everybody, but then again, no car in this segment does

PROS
+Muscular design

CONS
-Not the prettiest
-Not that unique
-Oversized C-pillar
Video Source: YouTube via Motor Week Video Source: YouTube via Motor Week
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