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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  This is a safe car! - 2006 Scion TC
  By Lew - November 26 - 12:13 pm

  I bought this car for my daughter based on Toyota reliability and the price. I special ordered it to get the color and head air bag package. It turned out to be a great call because my daughter walked and passenger walked away from a 70 mph double roll over accident. The car was totaled but I am going to replace it with an identical model. This is a very safe car! The only issue I found during this accident was both sunroofs shattered in a million small pieces of glass. Nobody got even scratched because the head airbags deployed evidently shielding the passengers from the glass

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  I love this car! - 2005 Scion TC
  By BDUtah - November 25 - 8:30 pm

  Nothing in this price range even compares to the tC. Based on the prices of comparable cars, I feel like I got a fantastic deal. The car is fun to drive (three speeding tickets in three months though), handles incredibily well, and is comfortable, especially for a compact.

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  what happened - 2006 Scion TC
  By bryanjz2 - November 25 - 6:50 pm

  I had this car for six months and all was going well until I came home from work one day. I was in the house for five minutes and my car spontaniously combusted. They told me it was an electrical short. Enjoy!!!!!!!

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  Not the Target Market, but Enjoying It - 2007 Scion TC
  By Dana & Rachael - November 24 - 5:06 am

  The Scion tC is a very well equipped car for the cost. It is not a sports car, but it is fairly sporty. It also is not a fuel economy champion, but it is better than many. Its a versatile, fun coupe for a couple who have grown kids, but still want something other than a plain vanilla sedan.

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  I Love this Car - 2006 Scion TC
  By Trey - November 21 - 11:53 am

  I got my 2006 Scion tC in August 2005 and from the moment I got it until now, I have loved it. This car has a little bit of everything. I love how it has a touch of sport utility in it. There are a ton of options that you can chose for the car. If they were to come up with an updated version in a few years, I would definitely trade it in and keep my car a for a new Scion tC. This car has a very nice interior and you would think that because it is a two-door vehicle, the passengers in the back would be cramped. But I actually have people WANT to sit in the back, because the seats recline and are very comfortable. The trunk space looks very limited, its a hatchback, but it has the perfect amount of space.

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  Very nice car - 2007 Scion TC
  By joetowntc - November 15 - 7:00 am

  I have had no problems with this car at all. I bought it 2 months ago and already have 4000 miles on it and the only thing that has gone wrong is a clutch cable had to be adjusted because I tried power shifting it a couple of times. It is a great buy for the price. It doesnt jerk out of any gear, you just need to learn how to drive a manual. The clutch is a little touchy but once you get used to it, its awesome. You can put the power to the wheels in an instant.

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  Scion tC - 2006 Scion TC
  By kelsbels - November 5 - 1:53 pm

  The Scion tC has a great ride, but they could have fancied up the inside more. Scion could have made sure the rubber pieces on the outside were snuggly and securely fit as in around the windows ..etc... Having said this, overall this is a good car for the money.

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  Good car - 2008 Scion TC
  By Tyler - November 4 - 11:53 am

  Overall, very good quality for the money. I average 26-29 mpg mixed highway and city driving; if you drive the car like a maniac, your fuel efficiency wont be as good. Interior looks nice, but can tell its where Toyota performed its cost-cutting. Sound system is awesome, iPod connectivity is cool (and yes, it does come standard with the port to connect it, contrary to what other people have said). Few rattles here and there, but relatively smooth ride. Could use more HP, but power is very good for 4 cylinder. Head room will definitely be a problem for taller drivers though, but lots of leg room available in back seat. Exterior looks awesome, especially with pedestal spoiler.

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  having good taste in style and power - 2005 Scion TC
  By Mark Preciado - October 23 - 10:00 am

  Its a fun car with great stuff backed in it. The car is so nice just plane as well like I got it with a below 260 monthly payment. This car is for every one young and old. Very user friendly over all compered to other cars with gadgets, buttons and light desplays, this car has the same thing and keeps things simple with all the gadgets and all. Power is usful and fun when now one is looking. Gas milege is actulay on the dot too after test that I have done. Any one can like this car and leaves you impressed every time you get in it and out and saying "I got this for $17000!" at the same time.WORTH EVERY PENNY NO MATTER WHAT YOU ADD TO IT!

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  Scion tC for Me - 2005 Scion TC
  By sjvisme23 - October 21 - 5:26 am

  I absolutely love my Scion tC. Its such a fun little car to drive. It has lots of get up and go...and a lot of good looks as well. I get a lot of compliments on my car too. I have had no problems with my tC. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone that is looking for a fun, sporty car but wants a fairly priced one too. I cant believe all you get for the price! I got mine in a week and a half. You cant beat that! I love my Scion! I am a very proud owner.