BREA, Calif. (August 22, 2005) - Newly revised this year, the 2006 Reno uses its Italian styling, full-feature content, finely honed performance and aggressive pricing to distance itself from its competitors.

Key changes for 2006 include a simplified model strategy, reduced base sticker price of $13,199, and the addition of Convenience and Premium Packages that contain upgraded equipment. Add in America’s #1 Warranty, and the Reno pulls ahead of the competition.


Surprising Versatility for an Entry-level Car

The Reno makes the most of its five-door layout. It functions like a four-door sedan when passenger capacity is key, then turns into a cargo hauler when the 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks are folded down. The big rear hatch swings up, and with the rear seats folded it’s easy to accommodate long, wide or bulky items in the 45.4 cubic feet cargo area.

The Reno’s interior has multiple power features and an impressive array of extras designed to surprise and delight – as well as make driving more enjoyable. The Reno comes standard with an eight-speaker standard audio system with four tweeters. With the Convenience Package, the audio system can play MP3 files, so Reno drivers can bring their custom-mixed CDs along with them on the road.

Interior space is generous, as expected from a car with a relatively long, 102.4-inch wheelbase and wide stance. The driver’s seat has height- and lumbar-support adjustments, along with an adjustable headrest – all calculated to suit a wide variety of body types. For 2006, there also is a standard tilt steering wheel and new seat fabric to further enhance comfort.

There are many dedicated storage areas in the Reno, including a lighted glove compartment, center console with dual cup holders, forward storage compartment, storage bin located under the front passenger seat, front and rear door compartments, dedicated sunglass holder, driver-side coin tray, rear center armrest with cup holders, and driver and passenger seatback pockets. In addition, the interior is acoustically insulated to minimize engine noise, road noise and vibration.


Solid Performance

The smooth-running 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC engine produces 127 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 131 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm, and features direct ignition, which eliminates the requirement for periodic replacement of high-voltage spark-plug leads. And to remain environmentally friendly, the Reno meets strict ULEV-II emissions standards. An enhanced OBDII system improves diagnostic capability.

In times of higher gas prices, fuel economy is another high point for the 2006 Reno. It earns EPA estimated mileage ratings of 23/30-mpg city/highway with the standard five-speed manual and 22/31-mpg city/highway with the available four-speed automatic transmission.


A Full Complement of Safety Features


The 2006 Reno provides its driver and passengers with multiple safety technologies such as advanced dual-stage front airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS), advanced weight-sensing front passenger airbag SRS and driver and front passenger seat-mounted side-impact airbags SRS. Additionally, the driver and front passenger seats feature three-point safety belts with pretensioners and height-adjustable shoulder belts; the back seat also has three-point seatbelts and headrests for all three passengers. A Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) child seat system and child-safety rear door locks are standard for added safety. Finally, front and rear crumple zones, along with guard beams in the side doors, help control the impact energy and protect the occupants in a crash.


New Convenience and Premium Packages


The 2006 Reno is powered by an energetic 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC engine with 127 horsepower and includes an impressive array of standard amenities. Features include tilt steering wheel, power windows and door locks, dual sun visors with vanity mirrors, remote fuel door release and premium features like an AM/FM/CD/cassette stereo with eight speakers, air conditioning with micron air-filtration system, and even heated power side mirrors. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, with a smooth four-speed electronically controlled automatic with gated shifter and "hold" mode switch offered as an option.

The Reno is now available with an optional Convenience Package priced at $14,149. The package includes MP3 audio capability, leather-wrapped steering wheel, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, power tilt-and-slide sunroof, remote keyless entry and electronic cruise control. The Reno with Premium Package is the top of the line for 2006. At $15,299, this package contains everything in the Convenience Package, plus new 15-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, a rear spoiler and four-channel anti-lock brake system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). That means that even when fully equipped, the 2006 Reno comes in well under $17,000.