Overview & Reviews

Can you be cool and practical? Skinny jeans and high-heeled shoes would indicate otherwise, but the Scion tC proves that it just might be possible. It certainly seems pretty cool, with a coupe body style, sharp looks and a variety of customization opportunities for younger buyers accustomed to getting things the way they want them. Scion has also frequently updated the tC's audio systems, which has given it a leg up as iPods and iPhones have gradually taken over the world.

At the same time, however, the tC's coupelike roof line masks hatchback utility with its impressive cargo capacity and a surprisingly spacious backseat. Moving dorm rooms or taking your friends out on the town is consequently much easier with the tC than it is with traditional coupes. This ability to be both cool and practical is indeed the tC's primary appeal, although sharing a reputation for reliability with Toyota (Scion's parent company) is also a compelling attraction.

Current Scion tC
The Scion tC is a five-seat compact hatchback coupe. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder is standard, boasting 179 horsepower (1 less than before) and 173 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a six-speed automatic is the lone factory option. Although the tC's combined fuel economy estimate of 26 mpg is respectable, most rivals are more fuel-efficient.

The tC comes in two trim levels: base and the limited edition "10 Series." Standard features for the base tC include 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a touchscreen interface and an eight-speaker sound system with a CD player, HD radio, an iPod/USB interface and RCA output jacks. The 10 Series, which celebrates Scion's 10th birthday, adds unique silver paint, dark-finished wheels, illuminated badges, LED accent lighting, an illuminated center console and premium stitching on the seats and steering wheel. Dealer-installed options include a navigation system, upgraded audio units and multicolored interior mood lighting.

Although the Scion tC is classified as a compact car, its relatively long wheelbase provides ample legroom, especially for those riding in the back. Long doors and far-sliding seats make entry and exit relatively easy, and rear passengers will also enjoy the split-folding rear seats that recline up to 45 degrees. With its rear seats folded down, the tC has nearly as much cargo volume as a compact SUV. The tC's passenger-side front seat also folds flat, which allows the car to accommodate long items such as surfboards.

Though the tC isn't especially sporty to drive, the interior does its best to indicate otherwise. The thick-rimmed, flat-bottomed steering wheel looks as if it was pulled from a racecar, while controls canted toward the driver further this impression. Unfortunately, the interior is filled with hard plastics that seem cheaper than those found in the tC's rivals. On the road, the Scion tC is responsive and involving enough to keep you entertained around town, but not so sporty that you'd relish driving it on a curvy back road. The steering has decent weighting and feel, but the stability control has a tendency to kick in frequently during aggressive driving.

Overall, the Scion tC is a respectable choice for a compact coupe. If driving fun is a priority, there are better choices, including Scion's own FR-S. But for those shoppers mainly wanting something stylish and practical, the tC will certainly satisfy.

Used Scion tC Models
The current-generation tC debuted for 2011. The following year brought standard Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, as well as the Release Series 7.0 that sported flashy yellow paint, a body kit, black wheels and keyless ignition and entry. For 2013 there was the similarly themed but very red Release Series 8.0, whose highlights also included a sport-tuned suspension, a center-exit exhaust and, for those fitted with the automatic transmission, paddle shifters. Although otherwise similar, note that these tCs lack the current version's updates that include revised styling with a much more aggressive face, an improved automatic transmission (with rev-matched downshifts) and slightly retuned suspension and steering systems.

The first-generation Scion tC was produced from 2005-'10. Like the current car, it was a two-door hatchback coupe with five seats and a single trim level. Standard equipment included 17-inch wheels, air-conditioning, split-folding-and-reclining rear seats, keyless entry, full power accessories with one-touch power windows, a dual-pane sunroof, cruise control, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and a premium sound system. An iPod interface was added for 2008, making the tC one of the first vehicles to get such a feature.

A considerable number of optional features and accessories (from the factory or dealer-installed) were available on the Scion coupe. Most notable was the airbag package with side and head curtain airbags, so make sure to note whether a used tC is so equipped. Other mods included interior and exterior styling add-ons, 18-inch wheels, audio system head unit upgrades and Toyota Racing Development (TRD) performance parts.

Power came from a strong 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine good for 161 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual was standard and a four-speed automatic was optional. Fuel economy was one of the tC's detriments, with an EPA combined rating of 24 mpg for the automatic -- about the same that most midsize sedans offer. There was a dealer-installed TRD supercharger available that raised engine output to 200 hp.

Inside, this tC's layout was very similar to that of the current car, with a roomy reclining backseat and generous hatchback trunk. There wasn't as much front seat legroom, however, and the steering wheel did not telescope. The tC's cabin had an upscale look and feel thanks to high-quality materials (for the time and class) and metallic-look trim pieces. An elegant "waterfall"-style center stack flowed into the center console, with a panel that covered up whichever of the many available stereo faceplates were affixed to the car.

In Scion tC reviews, our editors commented that this tC was enjoyable to drive, though hardly a sport coupe. Although its acceleration figures weren't stunning, the tC was quick enough for typical urban use. As with the current car, we were most impressed by its ability to be both stylish and practical, noting it was an ideal car for the youthful demographic for which it was intended.

This original tC changed very little during its run. However, there were minor exterior and interior updates made for 2008 -- including the addition of an iPod-specific interface. There were several updates made to the available stereo systems over the years as well, along with new items added to the extensive optional features list. A decontented, tuner-intended version known as the Spec was available for a few model years (ending in 2008) and could easily be picked out of a crowd by its unique paint colors and badge-less grille. The Release Series 6.0 for 2010 looked similar, but it actually had more equipment than the norm.

User Reviews:

• 

  Excellent Sporty Ride - 2005 Scion TC
  By MrE - February 21 - 7:50 am

  This car is so much fun to drive around. It turns on a dime and handles great. Bucket seats in front and back are comfortable, even for road trips. I have always got better than 30 mpg, with the AC on, (over 40 with the wind at my back). AC doesnt feel as cold or powerful as some other vehicles, and has a hard time cooling off in hotter weather but it works fine when Im by myself. My car does have a lot of road noise though, dont think thats a default on all makes though. Ive put 40K miles on in 2 years and my biggest replacement was new tires when I got it.

• 

  Better Than Expected - 2007 Scion TC
  By Drifter123 - February 7 - 9:43 am

  This is the best car out there for such a low price. Its fun to drive. It accelerates very quickly. Its reliability is questionable though. The engine should last a long time because its a Toyota Camry engine. The body seems a little too plastic. Overall, its a great valued car. I recommend it to anyone on a tight budget or who likes to tune cars.

• 

  Items to be aware of... - 2006 Scion TC
  By Anjanette - February 5 - 3:26 am

  We bought our tC new. We do love it but there are some build quality issues that need to be dealt with. The back panel, at the trunk release, broke off. The C-pillar air bag covers have popped off. The vent fan squeals and sometimes has stopped (thats fun in the blazing summer). Our breaks needed to be replaced at 33k miles and we dont drive hard or jam our foot into them. The tires are low profile and develop breaks in the sidewall radials easily if a hole or other bump is hit just right. The tires are also expensive and dont gain traction well on wet pavement and easily break loose. With continued use the seats dont stay in place when slid forward when accessing the back seat.

• 

  2006 scion tC - 2006 Scion TC
  By BSR.Motorsports - February 2 - 11:00 am

  best bang for the buck bar none! The standard options for this car are above ecceptional for a mear 17k, this car is equiped with features more like a 23k sedan. interior room is fantasic with enough room to fit 4 6 guys no problem. The dash is nicely appointed with satin silver finishes and a cool flip up door that covers the pioneer stereo. Performance is fantastic! keep in mind it is not a v8, but the 4 banger has enough guts to put a smile on your face. The handling is awesome with a little under steer when pushed but much less than most FWDs. steering and brakes are very positive with a secure feeling for the street. TRD sway bars and springs would be a good option for racing.

• 

  Scion tC 2008 vs 2009 - 2009 Scion TC
  By Chris - January 29 - 2:23 am

  They pretty much look the same but I did notice some slight differences. For one, the seats are darker. When you put the A/C to the coldest position, it says “A/C Max.” If you have a manual transmission, the shifting is a lot easier in the 2009 than the 2008. I think the gears also rev higher in the 2009. Other than that, they are pretty much the same.

• 

  best car in its class! - 2005 Scion TC
  By gcloveshertc! - January 28 - 11:56 am

  I bought my TC 3 weeks ago I am extremely satisfied with my purchase! It looks great (heads will turn:) and it is very responsive and fun to drive. Every other day, I discover a new feature I didnt know about! It only shows me how much R&D Toyota must have put into the creation of this car. Save your time test-driving cause the Acura RSX, Hyundai Tiburon and Honda Civic dont hold a candle to the value and performance of the Scion TC!

• 

  Our sons first car! - 2006 Scion TC
  By SoFlaG8R - January 24 - 8:13 pm

  We bought the tC for our 16 yr old son. He loves it! We bought it with ground affects/18 inch Perrilli tires/upgraded sound-subwoofer-iPod dock/interior lights/Billet grille/spoiler on back and more. It is so much fun to drive and it looks great. Sure he wishes it had a big engine, but for a 16 year old new driver this is as much power as we wanted him to have. My son is also tall and this is one of the few cars that had plenty of head/leg room for him.

• 

  Love It! - 2006 Scion TC
  By conrad - January 21 - 12:30 am

  When the gas prices started rocketing, I thought it best to get rid of my beloved Jeep Wrangler. What I ended up with was the hotest car on the market for the price, the Scion tC. Instead of the 15 mpg / hwy that I was getting I now get 30!!

• 

  One great car for the money - 2008 Scion TC
  By GENE WAFFLE - January 16 - 3:06 pm

  Awesome vehicle for the money spent. I opted for the automatic for driving around DC and northern VA, shifting is a pain, car has excellent pickup for a four cylinder, good gas mileage ( I average around 30 city/34 on hwy loaded with features, power windows/locks, power sun roof, great stereo sound for stock system, great looking alloy wheels quite decent in snow so far with stock tires (Yokohama S32a) I really love the car, put on spoiler and really looks sharp which seems like no one else in NY does. And this car is not just for young people, I am 42 and I love it

• 

  great car! - 2005 Scion TC
  By Im - January 5 - 10:00 am

  I am more happy than Lexus RX330 I had for a year. Lexus is a great car but it was just too pampering that I felt old in that car. This little tC has some stuff young people will enjoy and the design that even snobby architects (my coworkers) will love.