Toyota's 2006 Scion tC offers iPod connection

Toyota's Scion car division today announced its retail prices (MSRP) for the 2006 Scion tC, its top-rated sports coupe (in its segment in initial quality) and new iPod-integration option on all models. Due at Scion dealerships next week, The 2006 Scion sports coupe comes with additional interior standard equipment as well as a new audio upgrade. All tCs will now have a new three-spoke steering wheel with integrated audio controls and a redesigned Pioneer AM/FM/CD audio head unit as well as an optional iPod compatible audio upgrade from Pioneer that integrates the iPod with the car's sound system, including music navigation, power and display.

The 2006 tC's new standard audio system features a centrally-located volume control knob and a mini-jack port located in the center console compartment that allows for connectivity to most portable music players, including the iPod. The mini-jack port allows users to listen to their portable music collection through the tC's Pioneer speakers. The system additionally features Scion Sound Processing (SSP), which allows listeners to choose from three pre-set equalizer settings, satellite radio compatibility and a user-customizable welcome screen.

A Pioneer AM/FM/CD head unit with iPod control is now available as an all-new accessory upgrade for the 2006 Scion tC. Scion says that the tC is the first car in its class to integrate track, artist and album information from the iPod into a one-line display on the head unit's screen. Users can connect their iPod into a port via a connector cable, delivering high sound quality through the car's stereo system and constant power to the iPod. Music can be controlled through the head unit and steering wheel buttons. The MSRP for this accessory upgrade is $260, which includes installation.

Scion says the tC's exterior remains unchanged with the exception of two new colors. Silver Streak Mica and Indigo Ink Pearl exterior colors will be replaced with Classic Silver Metallic and Nautical Blue. With the additional standard equipment, prices for the 2006 Scion tC increases by $200 on all models. The MSRP for the Scion tC will be $16,200 with a manual transmission and $17,000 with an automatic transmission, reflecting a 1.3 and 1.2 percent increase, respectively.

Filed under: iPod, industry