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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  TC is OK - 2006 Scion TC
  By Joseph T - October 17 - 8:03 pm

  For the price, i have been very happy. I love the fact (trust) that the engine is based on the existing long tested 4cyl. I believe it could use a little more power, but the supercharger is an option. The interior design is better than some cars Ive seen at much higher prices. Overall, been driving this for 2 months and could not be happier. It was a good buying experience and even better ownership experience. Definetly recommending this model

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  I Love This Car! - 2005 Scion TC
  By ken - October 7 - 5:26 pm

  I bought my Scion tC in 2005, a couple months after it came out. Im glad to say I dont regret it at all. I love the exterior look of it, it has the best of all higher priced cars put into one. Its performance is alright, you could always add a supercharger though =). It is very easy to customize, audio wise. The hatch is perfect for music lovers like me and I can fit my bike in the hatch with the seats down! I thank Toyota everyday for making a perfect, affordable and great car for a college student like me.

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  Best dollar value - 2005 Scion TC
  By JL@SD_CA - October 1 - 10:00 am

  Cannot find better dollar value in current market. Very rich of the standard features. Like the right price and no barging process.

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  tC Needs Improvements - 2007 Scion TC
  By JOSE N ENRIQUEZ - July 20 - 5:23 am

  This car is fun to drive and has good horsepower. It has a lot extras inside. The outside has nice a design and smooth edges. The performance tires are a plus for me and it handles great. Why did they put in such cheap materials for the dashboard and the door panals?

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  Great car - 2007 Scion TC
  By Oconnell - July 8 - 11:56 pm

  I bought this car because I liked the style and it was cheap. Ive had the car almost a year with no problems at all... all the talks of rattles and squeaks almost turned me off to the car but Ive yet to hear anything.

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  Toyota Hits a Home Run. - 2005 Scion TC
  By ehiser - July 7 - 10:00 am

  Unbeatable value for the money. I did a lot of research for my first new car and narrowed the field to the Focus, the Mazda3 and the tC. The Focus was more fun to drive, the 3 was even better overall, but too expensive. The tC really is the best deal out there for a small, fun to drive car. Order one!

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  Great for the price, but..... - 2005 Scion TC
  By Sakio - May 3 - 5:30 am

  I will say at the start, this is a great looking and fun to drive car. With some dealer installed options (Aero kit, performance exhaust, foglights) it looks like $30K instead of $20K. That being said, I have only put 2000 miles on the car and there are some troubles. 1. My hatchback struts failed and it took three weeks just to get the part. 2. The drivers seat upholstery seems to be coming off the seams at the area of the back release. 3. Theres a piece of something that came off that rattles in the rear area that nobody seems to be able to pin-point. 4. Paint is way too easy to scratch (maybe in the lighter shades its not a problem, mines black).

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  Great Value! - 2007 Scion TC
  By Noisy - April 21 - 10:13 pm

  I bought this car as a replacement for my 2000 Focus ZX3, seeking something sportier, but not completely impractical. The tC came to the fore after some difficulty trying to nail down the local Honda dealer on a price (and availability) on a Civic Si. Both were in the running, but after a bit of time at the Scion/Toyota dealer, the quality of the tC and the great buying experience at the Scion dealership made it a no-brainer. Toyota quality/reliability (and the accompanying resale value) is gravy. This car is a tremendous value if you can restrain yourself at the options checklist, with power windows, locks, remote entry, great audio and Gods own sunroof as standard make it a tough car to overlook.

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  Scion - 2005 Scion TC
  By Tejas - April 13 - 9:10 am

  I got my scion about 9 days ago and so far so good. I just wish it had better fuel efficiency. It has good standard features for this price, difficult to find in other cars. It has turned few heads :) Excellent room for the passengers in the back, easy to get in and get out. Nice interior and exterior design.

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  Not perfect, but good for the price - 2007 Scion TC
  By Sean - April 9 - 10:20 pm

  My tC is apparently one of many that I have heard have a squeak in the dash right off the showroom floor. It comes and goes depending on road conditions but for a new car is very annoying and concerns me about the build quality comparing this, my first Toyota, to other cars I have owned. The gas mileage is also a little disappointing given that the car is a small 4-cyl. coupe. The car is wonderfully fun to drive and very comfortable over distances. I have a 100 mile a day commute and other than the squeaking love this car. The dealer would probably fix it no problem but they only do this type of work M-F and I do not live near the town I bought it in and would have to take off the day.