Editors' Most Wanted Vehicles for 2006

Most Wanted Wagon Under $15,000
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Winner: Scion xB

The Scion's spunky xB is a hit with the finicky youngsters while at the same time being a sensible (dare we say mature?) choice for transportation. Able to carry four lanky (five if one of them is really skinny) hipsters and their gear in spacious comfort, the xB also offers an impressive amount of standard features including A/C, a Pioneer stereo with CD player, power everything, ABS and stability control. With all this going for it, the xB had no problem charming our staff into making it our top choice.

Honorable Mention: Kia Rio5

The Korean charge up the charts continues. The Rio, which formerly garnered about as much respect from us as a Yugo, is the Cinderella story of this year's awards. Like an automotive version of Extreme Makeover, the Rio has been transformed into an attractive, fun-loving yet still practical vehicle. A surprisingly peppy engine gives the Rio5 adequate zip around town and a relatively relaxed attitude at a 70-mph cruise. Balanced handling, a relatively roomy cabin, fine build quality and crisp styling have vaulted the Rio from the minor leagues to the majors.

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