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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  Good Buy - 2007 Scion TC
  By Rick - December 9 - 7:33 am

  I purchased my first "brand new" vehicle after many years of battling the constant problems of the unreliability of my other used vehicles. I am ultimately happy with my purchase have no regrets. I love how tight the car drives and how versatile it is since all seat can fold completely flat. It also has ample leg room in the back for passengers and the reclining rear seats are also a plus! Gas mileage is decent considering its a 2.4L, and one touch windows and a stylish sunroof also are an added plus. It has all the bells and whistles you can ask for within this price point and it is pretty sporty looking sitting on 17" wheels and can go pretty good with 161HP. All not bad for under $17k.

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  Scion tC - 2005 Scion TC
  By TCRS1 - November 17 - 10:30 pm

  Quick , sporty , Reliable (Toyota Reputation), Clean looking , Well mannored in city and highway speeds , Fit of body panels and lines very good , Easy vehicle to customize to your personal liking , Controls very friendly to use , everything in reach , good fuel economy (expierenced 26mpg on average) . Well built motor , Transmission(auto) shifts smoothly and crisply , Door slam is is sturdy not tinny like most sub compacts , Paint very deep in color and gloss , Seats adjust easily just as steering does .

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  great car bad motor! - 2006 Scion TC
  By She - November 7 - 9:16 am

  I purchased it on my birthday as a gift to me! This was my first big car purchase. It had 40,000 mi on it and I loved the color, speed, drive and all. I absolutely loved my car! But after having it for not even two years the motor fails! Its only has 68,000 miles on it and it has a blown head gasket and a leaky water pump! Yea I know thats the same thing I said! A Toyota mechanic told me that there was nothing that I could have done to stop this from preventing because it is a manufacture problem! My car went thru the "good will" warranty review and got declined because I have never previously owned a Toyota, Lexus or scion and because I dont get dealership services!

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  Cant Complain - 2005 Scion TC
  By jmm143 - October 28 - 7:06 am

  Ive had my tC for 4 years now and overall its great. Never been in the shop and always reliable. plenty of room for me but a little crowded for a family of more than 3. Would like a little more power and a less squeaky hatch but other than that its great!

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  Defects - 2007 Scion TC
  By lynn - October 2 - 8:46 am

  The drivers seat within a year of owning my car, when pushing forward to clean and get into the backseat, the seat will not stay in the forward position, it will roll back on you. But the other seat will stay forward. Has anyone else had this problem with the seat ?

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  Great value for your money - looking for a first car? - 2008 Scion TC
  By iron112 - September 28 - 8:52 pm

  The TC was my first car. The TC offers outstanding value for the price. Youd end up paying 3-4k more in other cars for the same features that are present in the TC - all with Toyota reliability. This car is more about a balance of features rather than pure muscle. Despite its modest engine, it handles well. As a bonus, the TC was made for modders. If youre a modding junkie, and have the money, the TC is your car. Drawbacks - its underpowered - it has a Camry engine. Its peppy in the lower RPMs, but doesnt have true muscle. Its rear door is a pain. The gas mileage is somewhat lacking for a 4 cylinder. But if you can look past these negatives, then the TC is for you.

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  Good, reliable, toyota product, but a little boring - 2005 Scion TC
  By krisinindy - September 21 - 3:47 am

  Great car overall, reliable, cost effective, minimal maintenence costs.

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  ok car - 2005 Scion TC
  By dsl - September 16 - 5:03 am

  I bought this car when it first came out towards the end of 04. So far no engine problems. But the brakes squeaks a lot on reverse. Also, the liftback rattles from time to time. Radio cover also squeaks constantly. I took it back to the dealer, they tried to fix it but the problems are still there.

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  Middle-Aged Female Owner/Driver - 2005 Scion TC
  By KoastalKata - August 8 - 12:40 am

  I know that this car is marketed toward a younger crowd, but I really enjoy this car! Its affordable, great looking, rides well, and its so much fun to drive. This car is a great value for the money, for ANY age group.

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  Fun, I guess.. - 2005 Scion TC
  By rjy1988 - July 21 - 1:00 pm

  I got this car after looking around at similar cars. This one seemed like the best buy. After having it for a couple of months I had to take it in to have a protective screen put on the moonroof. A few months later the moonroof had trouble closing. It would get close to closing then open all the way again, it now still takes about one minute for it to close completely. Other than that I havent had many problems with it. It doesnt handle very well in rainy/snowy conditions and I can feel the tires slipping a lot. It is a great car though for adding on aftermarket parts. I put on cold-air intake and new exhaust, and like it a lot. It is a good car for its price, but dont expect too much.