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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  Save your money and Buy a Honda! - 2008 Scion TC
  By Scion TC - April 27 - 12:26 am

  This is the worst car I have ever purchased. I have already experienced auto window issues. When the weather is cold my trunk door will not stay open hitting me in the head and after only 2 years of owning it I have been left stranded and need to replace the battery. On a still newer car I do not expect to have any of these issues and have never experienced them on any previous cars I have owned. Yes this car is cheap and cheaply made! I will never buy another Toyota product.

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  Best car for the money - 2005 Scion TC
  By Andrew - April 25 - 11:36 am

  It is not a sports car, so if thats what you need, turn around and read reviews of the 350z. Now, its a great car. 100,000 miles, and no repairs, only maintenance. I love it. The 5-speed manual is very quick and smooth engagement of the gears, easy release clutch. Sound system is AWESOME! Its got everything you need, its a great car, with Toyota quality, and its not on the recall list, because its made in Japan, where the Toyota reputation was made.

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  Black Tc - 2006 Scion TC
  By Raquel - April 23 - 3:40 pm

  The car looks like a high quality car but the inside seems to have gaps like in the dor way every thing is good the sterio cover is a good idea but some times it wont shut i have 12,000 mi and every one of them had laughs and smiles to go with them

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  So far so good - 2008 Scion TC
  By Guitarshifter - April 22 - 2:56 pm

  Toyota makes great cars, and this is no exception. I live in the desert with over 100* on most days in the summer and this vehicle has NO problem driving in hot weather. A very powerful 4-cylinder acts as if it has a 6-cylinder under the hood. Hills and mountains are no problem for this car, it can zip around corners. Changing the oil is a breeze! The oil filter is right next to the drain plug on the front passenger side, thank you Toyota for thinking of the "do it yourselfer".

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  Fast/Sprinty car - 2008 Scion TC
  By Yurimaster - April 18 - 8:16 am

  This is my first new car as well. I had 2003 Nissan altima 2.5 L engine with 5 speed. Tho the altima is powerful and has good acceleration, my new scion seems to take off quicker and shifts faster. This is do to the lighter weight car and a 2.4 L engine. Most cars with 2.4 L like Camry weigh much more. Car accelerates very quick with out much effort on the accelerator. Smooth clutch and shifting feels firm. Gas miles is about right and all depends on the driver more then any factor and tire pressure. Hold good con curbs and has more sportier feels suspension as to a corolla or standard Camry. Now I really love my car and Toyota makes the most reliable car

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  worth money - 2005 Scion TC
  By tcs owner - April 17 - 10:00 am

  worth your money, looking forward to seeing those 200hp model. however its a little bit noisy inside when driving fast (but, its 16,000 dollars car) Tons of stuffs to install to the car. I installed the exhaust system, pretty nice sound. great design. overall, perfect for budget and very fun to drive.

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  Love My Car - 2005 Scion TC
  By dkdc68 - March 30 - 5:13 pm

  The only problem I have experienced, living in the city and parking on the street is that the body components seem extremely susceptible to dents and dings. Ive heard others comment on this as well..and body work can be expensive on the metallic paint colors. Otherwise this is my dream car, it is great in town, even better on the higway. I have been getting 34 mpg doing 73 mph in cruise control with the AC on. This car has a high head turning quotient and a good stereo. It feels a little delicate going over bumps, but its otherwise excellent.

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  Love This Car! - 2006 Scion TC
  By Mommy of 2 - March 27 - 10:00 am

  I Traded in my huge SUV and bought my scion used. It had 47,000 on it and runs great. I have 2 small girls 8 and 6. No problem getting them in and out. Booster seat fits fine. also had my friends baby in the back with my girls. well enough room for all car seat i was shocked. Fun to drive. kids love moon roof in the back. Only thing i notice is A/C is not to cold, but i think it just need flushed. I live in Oregon and Have no problems in rain with this car handles so well. no complaints!

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  tC lover - 2005 Scion TC
  By Purbred - March 19 - 3:10 am

  Usually, when you anticipate something this good, the hype can sometimes overtake what it really turns out to be. NOT FOR THIS CAR! Ive been drooling over this car since December of 2003 and Id have to say, it was worth the wait. There arent enough words to describe the thrill of driving one of these bad boys. The options are endless when it comes to tuning, but the basic model itself is loaded!

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  When you want "city power"... - 2010 Scion TC
  By Katy - March 18 - 10:30 am

  Scions are a fun, inexpensive, reliable breed of cars. My tC is 7 months old now and has been on several road trips already with two big ones planned in the future. This car is built for what I call "city power", meaning that I dont race it or expect to do lots of long haul driving or commutes. Im a city girl who like the feel and look of this sleek vehicle. Its like a grown-ups sports car without the look of grandpas midlife crisis. You can get this car standard without any special features and still drive off feeling like you bought a fun, high-end car (for under 20K).