2006 Scion Xa in Melbourne, FL - $0

Combining unique styling, quality and individuality, the Scion xA five-door was the first in a brace of products used to usher in a new automotive nameplate to the American marketplace with the launch of the Scion brand in 2004.

For 2006, Scion designers accentuated the muscular contours of the five-door xA body with a redesigned front fascia featuring a revised lower intake, headlamps and a new honeycomb-style grille. Color-keyed rocker panels and bumpers help unite the new design elements that also include redesigned tail lamps and new exterior side mirrors with integrated turn signals.

Based on the Toyota Echo platform architecture, the xA is powered by a capable 1.5L four-cylinder engine with variable valve timing and joined to a compact, lightweight five-speed manual gearbox. A four-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission is an available option.

Although the xA accessories list is long and comprehensive, the vehicle as equipped starts out with a wide array of standard convenience features. This list includes air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, power outside mirrors, rear window defogger, digital clock, tilt steering wheel, cargo area cover, tachometer and trip meter, driver's sun visor with mirror, front sport bucket seats with fabric upholstery, cargo area under-floor storage and 60/40 split-folding rear seat.

On the road, the xA combines a peppy engine with good control and smooth handling. At speed the xA is easy to drive, handle and enjoy -â€" a study in effortless driving. Suspension hardware consists of an independent MacPherson strut arrangement with stabilizer bar in front and a torsion beam configuration at the rear.

Inside the cabin there is ample cargo room, with numerous storage bins including an illuminated translucent storage area in the center cluster. The instrument panel trim is metal-tone with matching ventilation controls on the center console, stylized black-on-white gauges and textured treatments on the doors, dashboard and seats. The xA also boasts a center-mounted instrument cluster located high on the dash, enabling the driver to retrieve information quickly and easily.

Enhancements to the passenger compartment for 2006 include a new seat fabric, a speedometer with a new silver background and a new steering wheel with integrated audio controls. An Apple iPod compatible Pioneer audio system is now available as an accessory upgrade.

Customers now have a choice of one of three new wheel cover designs shared between the xA and xB.

Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 93.3; overall length: 154.1; width: 66.7; height: 60.2 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 1.5L four-cylinder w/VVT-i -- 103 hp at 6,000 rpm and 101 lbs-ft of torque at 4,200 rpm.

Transmission: five-speed manual, four-speed ECT automatic.

EPA fuel economy: 32 city/37 hwy., (manual); 31 city/38 hwy., (automatic).

Cargo capacity: 11.7 cu. ft.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, four-wheel anti-lock brakes and first aid kit. Optional safety features include front head curtain airbags, front/rear side-impact airbags, remote keyless entry and security system.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile.

Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile.

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2006 Scion xA four-door hatchback starts from $12,780 for the manual and $13,580 for the automatic. Destination charges add $540.

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