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:

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  Great Car for the Price! - 2005 Scion TC
  By stl.tc.king - November 20 - 1:50 pm

  After looking for quite a while at several different cars, I decided to buy a Scion tC. The major factors which led to my decision include the Camrys 2.4L engine (proven to be reliable), the styling, both interior as well as exterior, and the long list of standard features that are included within the base price (keyless entry, 17" alloy wheels, dual sunroofs, reclining rear seats, etc..) After my purchase, Scion has done a great job keeping buyers remorse to a minimum because of their superior marketing. I feel as if I "belong" to somewhat of a community of enthusiasts with similar interests.

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  THE BLUE BULLET - 2014 Scion TC
  By coliveri - November 15 - 7:47 pm

  What a car. Sharp, head turning exterior, got it in streak blue. I catch myself from time to time gawking. Interior is well done. Unique styling. Love the sporty steering wheel and dash layout. Sound system is great! Three speakers on each door?! Heck yeah! Seats are sporty, really support you in tight turns. Plus friends have plenty of room in the back. Trunk has a lot of space with its large door and folding seats. Now for the most important part: Performance! Engine is punchy and responsive. Handling is spot on, I feel in control and confident when taking fast turns. Everything feels like it was well thought out. Not just another cookie cutter car.

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  Great coupe with good features - 2016 Scion TC
  By CXavier - November 10 - 8:59 am

  I bought my 2016 tC in November 2016 and I love it. The car cost a little over $20k and the vehicle comes with some great features at this price point ( push to start button with smart key, 7 inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, amazing stereo, and great torque). I put this car on the road twice and the ride was perfect for going out of town on the highway. The car comes with the same 2.5 L engine as the Camry trims and the cargo space is pretty big for a car this size. Love the push to start button (which is a rare feature on an entry car starting around $20k) and you can lock and unlock the 2016 model with your hand and thumb and never have to take your keys out of your pocket. The car comes with scheduled maintenance for the first 25k miles which is a major plus. The TC is not going to be rebadged as a Toyota and not sure what is going to happen to the residual value but the XB was discontinued last year and they still hold their value pretty well and scion cars are low production so the supply should match the demand in the used market. I plan on keeping it until the odometer clocks 250-300k so resale value isnt a big deal for me. Gas mileage is average but its still a decent has saver. If you are interested in coupes at an reasonable price but the TC before the conclusion of 2016.

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  Great car - 2006 Scion TC
  By lk4d4 - November 5 - 9:38 am

  Bought my 06 tC in may 2006 with 53 miles on it, now up to 210,000+ miles. No major issues what so ever. I still have the original car battery, which is impressive. I did have to add some distilled water into it after 6 years, no big feat there. I have a short RAM intake, Borla axle back exhaust, which after adding bumped my MPG to about 31-33 hwy. Most of my driving is hwy, my daily commute is 60 mi each way. and I drive frequently from San Diego to Sacramento, roughly 550 mi each way. The tC is comfortable enough to drive the whole way with no problems. Im 510". Very easy to maintain. Easy access to the oil filter, I always check the placement of that on cars before buying.

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  Pleasantly surprised... - 2007 Scion TC
  By Bobbyb38 - November 2 - 4:50 am

  I test drove this car recently while waiting for my 04 Cavalier to get serviced yet again. I fell in love with this car from the moment I saw it and was stunned at how fun it was to drive. Tight handling, good acceleration, and really cool dash features. Needless to say I traded in my Chevy and am so glad I did. There is simply no comparison in my opinion when driving a Toyota and a GM made car. The difference in quality was apparent as soon as I opened the door. Just a solidly built car with quality parts thru out. If you want a reliable car thats fun to drive, buy this car today!

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  The Affortable Sports Car - 2006 Scion TC
  By jason - October 27 - 10:30 pm

  The 2006 Scion tC is an overall TEN in my book. It has nice looks with overall good perfomance. It can be tricked out anyway you want as well. Im sure there be more ways to customize your Scion and add on features from the aftermarket world.

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  Amazing Im so happy - 2009 Scion TC
  By Danny - October 25 - 1:50 pm

  I drove many car before the tc and it was by far the best. Mazda3, civic, protege, neon, etc this is by far the best car I have had. Car is cool, looks good, many many options of mods and wheels just many many ways to make it better and faster. I got the car a month ago and I love it. 5 speed engine intake hks exhaust 10,000k hids yellow jdm fogs 2 12 subs 2000 Watt amp lowered it on tein coilovers and upper sway bar. The moonrof is amazing I live in Florida and its the best choice for this place! If you are looking for a car and youre Young or older but want a fun and sporty car search no more you have found it!

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  The Car of the Year - 2005 Scion TC
  By ALEX - October 22 - 9:00 pm

  I cant believe how well this car handles. Im breaking it in, not pushing it at all, and it amazes me in Its breaking abilities, handling, and acceleration. The fuel mileage isnt bad at all. If i was to say something bad about it, I perfer to haggle rather than dealing with a fixed price, but its worth it.

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  Best Value - 2005 Scion TC
  By Blue Scion tC - October 20 - 2:10 am

  Started looking for a good gas mileage car (I drive 23k a year) but decided on the Scion. Looked at Elanta (didnt like dash) Corolla S (small hard plastic armrest and dash seem old fashioned) and Mazda 3 (too high price). While at Toyota dealership test drove the tC and couldnt resist getting it. It just ran great and had such a solid/quality feel to it. What I really liked was there were no options I had to buy. It already had 4wheel disc brakes, ABS, sunroof, cruise control and alloy wheels. Got 27mpg with first tank and 29 with second one. Overall, you just cant beat the value and quality and to me it was worth the extra $7 a week for gas.

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  Great Car - 2005 Scion TC
  By Tom C - October 16 - 5:56 pm

  In a word, this car is awesome. I was shocked to find such a diamond for the price of a gumdrop. This thing is sporty, comfortable, AND economical. I absolutely love my car, and I compared it against the Mazda 3, the Ford Focus, and the Toyota Matrix, as well as the bigger Pontiac G6. Hands down, for the price, did I get the best performance vehicle.