I've been doing more research until I can get to the range and try an XDS. Interesting results. Specifically, I was looking to compare the XDS with the Kahr PM45 (which will be joined by a lower-priced version, the CM45, later this year). There were quite a few threads, including threads on the XD owners forum and on the Kahr owners forum. First, I went to the XD forum. Not surprisingly, most of the posts favored the XDS. Then I went to the Kahr foum. I found that almost all of the posts favored the... (drumroll)... XDS! That was quite a shocker, since most gun owners and forum posters have a fairly keen sense of brand loyalty.
Just thought I'd share and keep you all updated on my little project.