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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  not worth the money - 2007 Scion TC
  By jason vain - February 24 - 9:30 am

  DO NOT BUY A SCION. I have a 2007 scion 3.0 with the third supercharger and let me say it is a piece of junk and dealing with scion themselves is horrible that is why the saying "you get what you pay for" is soooooo tru. I paid $4500 for a s.c.that give you only 40 more h.p. and everything in the car just falls apart and when you tell scion what goes wrong they just point at you and laugh. So word of advice. DO NOT BUY ONE!!!!! TRUST ME>>>

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  Great Value - 2009 Scion TC
  By Breimann - February 23 - 3:00 am

  9000 miles and not a single problem! I like to tinker and working on the car is very easy. Anyway, car rides great, handling could be a little better (came from a Celica) but it still maintains a fun-to-drive factor. Where else can you get such a long list of features for the money?

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  Love Every Inch - 2005 Scion TC
  By Fast88Pony - February 20 - 8:00 am

  I love my Scion tC. Ive driven a lot of cars out there and this takes the cake in its class! I have never had any problems in the almost year that Ive had it. Its very fun to drive!

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  Best Car for the Money - 2007 Scion TC
  By Chris - February 19 - 1:00 am

  I just bought an 07 Scion tC this past weekend and even though Ive had my eye on one for a while, actually owning this car is much more of a joy than I could possibly have imagined. I had a 99 (new) Jetta for about 7 years and had lost the excitement of owning/driving my car quite some time ago. The tCs fit and finish are top notch and this car has WAY more power than I expected. Its interior layout is intuitive and all of the buttons have a solid, tactile feel. You really cant beat Japanese automobile craftmanship these days, especially Toyota. I thought about the new Civic Si but its design seems pedestrian compared to the tC. Scion really nailed the youth market branding. I highly recommend this car. Period.

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  Great, Except for Minor Things - 2005 Scion TC
  By Desertdweller - February 12 - 12:56 pm

  We were the first Scion tC owners in our area, buying the first one to hit the local dealership. Our tC now has 45,000 miles on it with no engine problems. It has been a blast to drive. There is plenty of room in front, and the engine is peppy, though a turbo would be extra cool. I drive through a tight hair-pin down-hill grade every morning to work. I have noticed that the tC handles nicely and I frequently pass more expensive sports cars with ease. Id say the tC is a great deal for the money. Our only complaint is the paint does not hold up at all! There are chips and door-dings everywhere. The front bumper and head light domes are riddled with a permanent sandblast from driving in the desert.

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  Great Car - 2008 Scion TC
  By Joyce - February 11 - 7:43 pm

  This Scion TC is something else! Great car. We arent your every day sporty people but hey this car works well, looked good and came at the right price. We simply could not say no. We tried the Fit, Versa, mazda 3 and the civic. The civic rated well too but for the money the TC was a great car. The only thing I find is that for older people it may be difficult to get in and out as the car is low set. I find it difficult but my spouse doesnt. But Id recommend this car anytime. Most people are unaware that the Scion comes with a Camry engine; as the camry has been around a long time, this can only be a good thing. Our Scion came with a lifetime warranty on the engine and tranny!

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  2008 scion tc - 2008 Scion TC
  By cocacolagrl - February 10 - 7:10 am

  The 2008 scion tc is a great car. I have owned it since January 2011 and i bought it with 19000 miles. now almost a year later it has over 30,000. I love to drive it. I bought this car after owning a 1992 toyota camry for 5 years, so this was quite an upgrade for me. It has only been in the dealership for oil changes and a battery change. The only person who doesnt seem to like it is my father. He is tall and he cant really get very comfortable in the front seat. my scion is the azure pearl color which turns alot of heads. its not as sporty looking as some other cars but its good enough for me! the only thing i dont like is the paint is very prone to chipping..

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  A beautiful vehicle. - 2005 Scion TC
  By Alan Schlossberg - February 6 - 3:46 pm

  I am a nut for nice looking clean cars. I have never been asked so many times what kind of car I am driving and how beautiful it is. My tCs perfprmance is excellent. It has lots of room inside (I am 6 foot 4 inches). I think it is a great car for the money.

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  tC after two years - 2005 Scion TC
  By Geo - February 6 - 12:06 am

  The only complaint I have is that it rattles, and Toyota has not fixed the rattle. Intermittent, of course, sounds like the hatchback or the sun roof. I love this car. I love the way it reponds at 60 to 70 mph, I love to put it through hard corners, I love the manual transmission. People over 6 foot 3 have a hard time with the head room, but it fits me fine. I look forward to driving it.

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  College Student with Hopes - 2006 Scion TC
  By soros151 - January 27 - 2:56 pm

  Since I saw this vehicle I fell in love with it. At first I found the shifting to be quite smooth, but since I changed the shifter it has a "racer" feeling. Dont get me wrong, I dont street race, Im truly against it and I work with one association against it. The car feels nimble enough to take on any vehicle, yet balanced enough to be comfortable on the road. If you want an economic car, for under $20,000 and still be able to enjoy going to the track, then this is your car. Dont believe me? Go try one now.