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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  Amazing - 2005 Scion TC
  By velvetrope - October 4 - 10:00 am

  Just picked up my tC and all I can say is WOW. This car is amazing, in every way.

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  Just bought one - 2005 Scion TC
  By John F C - October 4 - 10:00 am

  After driving E class mercedes, a Porsche Carrera and recently a Lexus SC430, I got tired of high priced cars that depreciate a great deal. Im 51 but listen to my sons who really enjoy driving and performance. When I chose the Scion Tc my wife told me she wouldnt even drive in it (too small and not enough luxury). Thank god I dont listen to my wife, the car drives like a dream, solid as a rock and what a price performance curve. Ive bought a lot of cars in my days and for the $$ the Scion is an excellent value. Looking forward to a lot of fun, safe driving and easy on the pocketbook.

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  Excellent for the money - 2005 Scion TC
  By flthc - October 4 - 10:00 am

  I love the no haggeling over price. You can build your car with option over the web and know EXACTLY what your price is. Lots of standard options that you will see in more expensive cars. Quite the value and fun to drive. Nice mix of fuel economy, horse power and handeling.

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  Nothing else comes close. - 2005 Scion TC
  By Dan - October 1 - 11:43 pm

  I purchased this car new three years ago because it was by far the best bet for the money. I have driven it coast to coast with everything I own and my dog in it. I have driven it in ice and zero visibility. I have left it in the pouring rain with the sunroof and windows open. At no point in the last 40k miles have I been disappointed. It is very much a toyota, and it is cheap. I have read through these reviews and have been shocked to see people listing things like lack of power, cheap materials, and "I cant work my iPod and drive at the same time" type criticism. If you want the perfect car, you had better look to BMW or Audi. This is a Scion, built for good looks, value, economy.

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  scion tc a wonderful car - 2005 Scion TC
  By sciontc05 - September 28 - 10:00 am

  This is by far the greatest car for the money and the best part is that aftermarket companies are really looking at this car for kool things to do to it. great car

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  How can they do this - 2005 Scion TC
  By sstaszak11 - September 28 - 3:16 am

  I still cant figure out how you can get all of this car for around 17,000. It has the look and feel of a luxury car with power everything. The panorama moonroof is a great feature. Ive read some complaints about road noise and/or engine noise at higher speeds, and maybe Im just used to the sounds of my old Saturn, but this car seems extremely quiet to me. I made it a point to drive with the radio off to see if I could pick up any noise. Nothing. I cannot stress how much I recommend this car

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  Excellent Car for the Cost. - 2005 Scion TC
  By Josh - September 16 - 4:50 pm

  The Scion TC comes absolutely loaded with features you would have to pay a premium for on other cars: 17" wheels, ABS brakes, power windows/door locks, and panoramic sunroof to name a few. Although all of these features make this car rather heavy, it still has plenty of "get-up-and-go" for cars in this price range. The tC is fun to drive around town and is plenty comfortable on long trips. Build quality is solid. You can buy a tC with confidence, knowing that it is built by Toyota.

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  Youll Love It!!! - 2006 Scion TC
  By J. Webb - September 16 - 6:23 am

  I traded in my 03 Hyundai Tiburon for a black tC and I couldnt be happier. I drive a lot of different late model cars and pickups at my job, but this tC is the perfect balance in my eyes of performance (160 horses is plenty if youre not planning on racing anybody), looks (I get plenty of double-takes at stoplights), and most importantly, VALUE. The features that come for the $18,000 or so you pay are EXCEPTIONAL.

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  I love my car!! - 2005 Scion TC
  By joyous_knoxville - September 10 - 6:43 am

  I bought my scion in September and love riding it around the hills of Knoxville. Its such a smooth little speed dragon! I would recommend this car to anyone who wants performance with reliability.

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  Good little car - 2006 Scion TC
  By Jim H - Longwood FL - September 9 - 8:10 pm

  I have had this car now for about 8 months, and it was a change going from a Camry to the tC. The car has good take off, and I have had no problem with the handling. It is a fun little car to drive.