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The Scion xA offers solid construction, quiet operation, comfortable accommodations, and low maintenance costs.

Unlike the Scion xB and tC, the xA doesn't set the world on fire with its styling, but it comes well-equipped with convenience and safety features. It's comfortable in the front seats, though the rear is a bit cramped, and it offers decent cargo space.

For 2006, the Scion xA receives slight revisions to its exterior, a steering wheel with integrated audio controls, and higher quality cloth seat-upholstery.

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Scion xA ($12,780) is powered by a 1.5-liter 16-valve four-cylinder and comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic is optional ($800).

The list of standard features is surprisingly long for a car in this price class: antilock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (which boosts braking pressure in emergency situations); air conditioning; power windows, door locks and mirrors; remote keyless entry; tilt steering wheel; tachometer and trip meter; 60/40 split folding rear seat; cargo area cover; and a six-speaker AM/FM/CD Pioneer sound system that reads MP3 files and is satellite radio-ready.

The only factory-installed option Toyota offers on the xA besides the automatic transmission is a safety package comprising front seat-mounted side airbags and front and rear seat side curtain airbags ($650).

Some 40 accessories are available, installed at the factory or dealership. Many are appearance oriented and include appliques for B-pillars, the fuel door, instrument panel, door sills and rear bumper; license plate frames; mudguards; tail lamp garnish; rear spoiler; removable roof rack; red, blue or clear covers for the remote keyless entry; and sport pedals in choice of red, blue or silver. Functional accessories include a cargo liner, net and tote; carpeted floor mats; auto-dimming rear view mirror; satellite tuner and auxiliary antenna; subwoofer; security system; wheel locks; and alloy wheels. On the performance list are a cold-air induction system; front strut tower brace; and an assortment of bits from Toyota Racing Development, including 18-inch wheels with Pirelli P Zero tires, lowering springs, strut/shock set; and a sport muffler. New for 2006 is a Pioneer AM/FM/CD head unit with iPod control that lists track, artist, and album information from the iPod on the head unit's screen.

Following the tradition of limited edition model, the 2006 Scion xA Release Series 3.0 ($14,620) comes in Stingray Metallic light blue exterior paint. Features include front and rear KenStyle® ground effects, Release Series wheel covers, color-tuned seat fabric, and a rear spoiler, as well as XM Satellite, and a Security System. Only 2,100 units will be built.