My friend is interested in X-wing and is willing to have a demo game soon.

I was wondering what the best way to introduce him to the game is? What lists? scenarios?

Basic box set, either one will do just grab a pilot skill 1 TIE fighter a pilot skill 2 X-wing and a Pilot Skill 3 TIE fighter and go from there.

Alternatively, do two 50 point lists, no upgrade cards. I find it offers a bit more excitement than the usual "one X-wing two TIEs" while still offering a solid beginner's game that gives them enough time and variety to get a handle on the mechanics.

First I'd do just the old core set and just learn the basics of moving and shooting. Next throw in ranges and pilot ability. Then learn one of the missions. After that add the new core set and start squad building. That is how one of my friends learned and he's getting pretty good.

Start without upgrade cards.

First game, few rounds, give him a rookie and take two TIEs, teach him the basics of maneuvering and how and when to use target locks and focus tokens and that you shoot them with the pointy end.

After a few rounds, turn it around, take the X-Wing and he takes an Academy and a Black Squadron. Time to learn about Barrel Rolls and blocking (and hence the importance of retaining your action).

Then a few rounds with Luke, R2-D2 and a few named TIEs to learn about more modifiers and pilot abilites and then you're basically set. After that it's just a matter of getting more experience in and learning about what works well with what.

You can't go wrong with basic boxed set. Follow the learning to play section, then play the scenarios. Once you get through that make a couple of lists without upgrade cards and play them, switching sides. Do the same thing with upgrade cards and by then your friend will be hooked. Just space it out over some time so as not to overload.

Definitely. I say kindof ease into it, and he can build his own strategy over time.