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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  Great Car - 2007 Scion TC
  By Wayne S. - July 15 - 2:56 pm

  This car is just what we needed. I had a Miata and my wife had an Xterra. We needed something to take the place of both. She needed room for her cleaning business and I needed something that felt sporty yet a little safer than the Miata. This car has a dual sunroof, folding back seat, and comes with all the bells and whistles (like cruise and leather wheel, etc) What a fantastic driving experience, it is very nimble. Also, we have had the car 6 months now and do not have one complaint. CR stated that the car has plenty of space for a sporty car. The rear seat is actuallly sedan-like. All in all, could not be happier with it. It gets looks too.

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  Very overall nice ride! - 2008 Scion TC
  By Trig - July 12 - 1:50 am

  I am very impressed with this years tC. I love the new tail lights and orange illumation in the dash. Rides very smooth and quiet for a sports-like car. The price isnt bad either (for everything that comes standard). Highly recommended to anyone who loves a nice ride with pretty good pick up.

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  Great Fun Coupe!! - 2005 Scion TC
  By jaimean - July 8 - 2:53 pm

  I had a rough time waiting for the dealer to get me the car I ordered, and ended up getting one available in the dealer after I got tired of waiting for almost two months. The color is not the one I ordered, but the indigo blue is just as nice. The perfomance is outstanding, great handling on the road, and fun to drive. The interiro design brings a lot of attention to the people that looks at it; they say it looks like a pricey car. I just hope it lives up to my expectations, but knowing is a Toyota-made car, I have no doubts about it...

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  Worth More Than It Costs - 2006 Scion TC
  By Kat from Atlanta - July 4 - 3:50 pm

  I had a 95 Chevy Camaro that had become very problematic and so I purchased a tC to replace it. The tC had the sporty look I wanted without a high price. The car rides very well and accelerates quickly. It was also nice to be able to customize it to make it personal and also to ensure that the additions would fit properly. The car blocks out a lot of outside noise. When I pull into my garage the sound of my dogs barking are now only a muffle. To top it off, Scion cars have been noted to be very reliable so its great to know that this car can get me around safely. I definitely recommend this car to anyone who wants a lot of features and reliability without having to pay a fortune.

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  Great Car!! - 2005 Scion TC
  By OMork06 - July 1 - 6:26 am

  Bought my Scion about 6 months ago. Its been the best decision I couldve ever made. The only thing that was a concern was the 50,000 miles already put on the engine. With the miles already on engine, it runs great with its powerful 2.4 engine but wouldnt hurt to go a little faster. The car looks great stock! Bought mine slammed about 5 inches off the ground and takes corners like a champ! Great on gas, especially when I drive from PHX to LA about every month. AC comes in handy with the 120 degree weather in the AZ.

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  Whats not to love??? - 2005 Scion TC
  By tc_lover_baltimore - June 28 - 10:33 am

  I traded in my 1 year old Camry for this just because I was tired of being anonymous and driving something that wasnt really FUN. Sure the storage in the tC isnt as plentiful, but the one thing I loved about my Camry was that silky smooth and powerful 4 cylinder - and the tC has that with 300 less pounds. Add that to the exceptional handling and its genuine GREAT looks and this was one car I couldnt wait to own. THANK YOU Toyota for adding yet another great product to your line-up!

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  Dream Machine - 2006 Scion TC
  By Leo - June 25 - 7:23 am

  Absolute dream to drive. Interior is roomy, comfortable. No road noise. handles on the road like a charm. Sporty, yet practical. Would recommend it to anyone who likes a comfortable yet exciting ride. I would buy it again in a heartbeat.

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  I Love My Car!! - 2008 Scion TC
  By Dezire - June 21 - 1:23 pm

  As an owner I say it is a very sporty and classy car with a lot of power and is smooth to drive. Ill recommend this car to anyone!

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  Couldnt Ask for More - 2005 Scion TC
  By Caleb - June 20 - 3:40 pm

  Want more bang for your buck? Electric seats? HA! try finding another car built this well that performs this sharply! I changed my spark plugs to NGK iridium and now get 33 mpg hwy! Im 62" and actually find the car more comfortable than my 98 eclipse! The jellybean shape helps to provide a lot of headroom . There isnt much headroom in the back though, but enough theres legroom for someone who is 6 tall to sit behind me. You cant ask for much more than that. With a bombproof engine, BMW styling and a pandoras box of power just waiting to be opened you cant beat the performance or styling of this vehicle until you reach $22,000 with the supercharged Saturn, but then your car isnt as well built! Do the math on that one!

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  Scion BabyBoomer!! - 2005 Scion TC
  By Karen - June 17 - 9:03 pm

  This car was marketed for the young kids but Im a babyboomer who was getting frustrated finding a hot coupe for under 20K. Then my son told me a 5 letter word.."SCION" and my prayers were answered. The interior cabin is so comfortable it belies its sport coupe look. Good power combined with an easy to use manual transmission with a short throw makes driving FUN!!! And with lots of experience with a stick you can leave the "youngsters" in your dust!! After more than 5 mts, I still enjoy all the comments about how hot my black cherry pearl Scion is. So all you babyboomers out there who are saving for retirement but still want a fun car to drive, try SCION tC & you wont be disappointed!