Last Oct I purchased a 2005 xA with 50k miles on it. Now it's got 57k miles without any problems. I was looking for something affordable, reliable and easy on gas. My mpg ranged from 29 in the winter to a 36 on my last tank with a good mix of hwy/city driving. I'm sure I can get those number better but I have a pretty heavy foot.
In the winter, it drives just as I expect other small front wheel drive vehicles will drive. A few times the ABS kicked in. It scared me at first because it was so loud but I've been assured at other Scion sites and a dealer that it's normal. It's really louder than any other car I've experienced ABS in.
There was more road noise than I expected, especially on grooved highways. The worst part I would say is that it's underpowered on the highway. It can keep up with traffic just fine but I can really notice the lack of power when I try to pass someone at 70mph or when I'm merging from an on ramp to 75mph traffic.
I just love this little car for zipping around the city. Highway driving is ok, you will just have to learn its limitation due to it's small underpowered engine. The radio works well at drowning out road noise. The interior is wearing well. Haven't had a chance to test the A/C for extended periods (there is a tsb about the a/c not blowing alot of cold air for my model, looks like it's been fixed for newer models) or drive in the mountains yet. If you do get one, I would highly recommend to put a clearbra on the hood since it seems to attract rocks. Mine has a bunch of chips in the hood because the previous owner didn't put any protection on it.
Hope this helps,
Nick
