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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  Sweet - 2006 Scion TC
  By Scott - May 27 - 11:40 pm

  I got my tC in May and I dont mind driving anywhere no matter how long it is. Its the perfect car for a teenager. Its not too big and not too small.

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  Fun Little car - 2005 Scion TC
  By Perry C - May 9 - 9:16 pm

  Performance: Coming from a 5.0 mustang gives me a bit more perspective than some of the kids moving up from their Civic to this car. It isnt particularly fast, but it is quick, and handles well, is comfortable and the stereo system rocks Gearing/Tranny: I think they did a great job with matching the gearing to the engine. Even in 5th gear, you can pass on the highway, which makes highway driving much more tolerable. First is really short, but thats not a bad thing. Interior: This car is really comfortable and seems much bigger on the inside than it looks like it should from the outside. The seats are firm and supportive, and the driving controls are well placed.

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  Fun and refined with few compromises - 2007 Scion TC
  By Val - April 19 - 11:23 pm

  Hard to beat for under 20K. Really, name something as loaded, refined and reliable (as Toyota) for the same price. So far, loving it: put a nav system into the double din - the cover is awesome, less tempting for thieves! Solid as a vault, decent handling, moderate power from 4cyl, averaging around 27 mpg on combination of spirited city driving and 90 mph+ highway cruising.

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  Much improved for 2014 - 2014 Scion TC
  By mazdap - April 18 - 9:32 pm

  I bought a 2014 Scion tC manual transmission in blue. It has about 3200 miles on it now. It handles well in rain and snow (just had our 3rd snow storm here in Pennsylvania), It has sporty handling in the twisties due to suspension upgrades for 2014. Looks like no other car, the new wheels are beautiful and hide brake dust. The transmission is very smooth and precise. It is Camry reliable, lighter and quicker than a Camry though. It has plenty of torque which you can feel during takeoff. The HD stereo is AMAZING! 0-60 time per Car and Driver is 6.9 seconds for the 6sp manual transmission. All this for less than 20k. Plus free service/oil changes! So far I am very pleased.

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  Still SeXXXy! after 2.5 years! - 2006 Scion TC
  By UltiMica06 - April 13 - 11:26 am

  UltiMica is about 2.5 yrs old now. Still a Strong girl! Modded the car w/ A LOT of stuff to make it MORE fun to drive & Sexier Exterior Looks. Great value & fun to drive car! I <3 my tC!

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  good quality, no major complaints - 2007 Scion TC
  By camp6ell - April 11 - 1:36 pm

  have driven 25k miles in the first year of ownership, and my only complaint is disappointing gas mileage: 90% of my driving is highway, yet i only realize 29.5-31.5mpg. i expect more from a small car with 4cyl engine. i have a bit of a rattle, unfound/unfixed by dealer, from the sunroof depending on the weather. the upgrade ipod stereo isnt fantastic, and even at max volume can be hard to hear on the highway. engine was a bit lumpy for the first 20k miles, but its smoother now. handles ok. steering and brakes good. interior is a nice place to spend time, and seats are comfy. hvac isnt the best system ive used. headroom limited for anyone above 510".

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  a bargain - 2005 Scion TC
  By jc23 - April 2 - 10:00 am

  all u need to know about the car can be found in the specs, its a car above your civics and sentras. u have a camry engine giving you 160hp and a load of standard features and hidden goodies that makes the car feel more luxurious. be warned of availability issues, it took me a complete month to get the car and not even the color i wanted. if u want the car, test drive and then put a deposit down (usually $500, make sure its refundable) and call up other dealers, this may help you get it faster .. the car is smooth and responsive, great pickup and a/c works well, MPG is decent, mp3 player is great and a ton of other little features

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  Good Buy People! - 2005 Scion TC
  By KnotKnyce - February 19 - 10:00 am

  I had this car for a whole week now and Im loving everyday with this vehicle. The excitement that I get when driving this car is knowing that Im the only one in my area with this car. Real Head turner.

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  Head Turner! - 2005 Scion TC
  By EJ - January 7 - 4:33 am

  Ive had the tC for 2 weeks now and I love it! It drives great, despite me learning to drive manual on it! My co-workers and friends were impressed with all the standard features. Im still breaking it in and I have about 500 miles on it so far.

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  Scions R Kool Cars - 2007 Scion TC
  By valval - January 1 - 10:06 pm

  The 2007 Toyota Scion T C Is a great car.It has a sleek design and looks great on the inside& out. It is a comfortable and fun car to drive.I have had no problems with my car since my husband bought it for me in 2006.Toyota could of had put a better paint job on it.I have noticed small nicks of chipped paint here and there on my car.Other than that I am really satisfied and would recommend someone to buy a Scion....They are really fun vehicles to drive.They Catch peoples eyes and are looking and complimenting you on your car.