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:

• 

  Potential but lacks power! - 2007 Scion TC
  By Bulgdoom - June 20 - 2:10 am

  Has one of the best designs out there with a nice sport coupe. Quality is overall nice and good value for the money. Engine seems outdated and suited more for trucks with high torque maximized at 4,000 rpm and overall poor mpg for this type of car. Engine seems to run at high RPM for cruising speeds, could use a 6th gear and a more refined clutch.Weight is relatively low but there are some blind spots which may get in the way. Its very fun to drive but performance is a bit low for a 2.4L engine compared to other cars such as the Audi and VW which get over 200hp and torque with 2L engines while receiving same or better mpg.

• 

  Such a nice car for what it costs. - 2006 Scion TC
  By joe - June 5 - 10:00 am

  I have had my tC until last week when it got wrecked at a car wash. I was so sad to see my car getting totaled right in front of my eyes. Anyways, this car has been an awesome experience and gave me lots and lots of fun while driving it. It had good power and maintained a decent fuel effeciency. It also added in a lot of standard features which is impossible to be equipped at the price with any other makes. Finally, it looks great inside and out and hasnt caused a single problem for over two years. Toyota has done a hell of a job.

• 

  Awesome Car - 2006 Scion TC
  By Arden - May 31 - 4:20 pm

  The Scion tC is the best bang for the buck. It looks awesome and the interior is made from top quality materials. I love it and reccomend it to anyone. One more thing, I recommend the TRD exhaust, it sounds amazing.

• 

  Loving it at the pump!!!! - 2006 Scion TC
  By scion lover - May 31 - 1:53 pm

  I have not had one problem or complaint about my TC. I love the way it handles, it has get up and go! For a 4cyl car I can expect anymore! It has no blind spots, which is hard to find in any car. I leased it short term, but I love it and plan on keeping it around for quite awhile!!!!

• 

  Great car for the money - 2005 Scion TC
  By Derek-Fort Myers FL - May 29 - 6:06 pm

  I purchased the vehicle used in Jan 07 with just 30K miles. I have been pleasantly surprised with the performance, handling, and comfort of the tC. I dont get great gas mileage, but I drive it pretty hard. The only ongoing problem I have is with the sunroof - it whistles on the highway and continues to jam up when I close it, needing my assistance to get beyond a certain point. I would buy another one in a heartbeat.

• 

  Love It, but Its Killin My Wallet. - 2005 Scion TC
  By ScionRox - May 28 - 3:23 pm

  I love this car! It has been nothing but good to me. I have had it since new for nearly two years now. I bought this puppy before it was cool to have a tC! It is a nice car, but it is a little low on power for a supposed "sports coupe." I would love to supercharge it, but Im not a millionaire. It gets pretty poor gas mileage. Ive never gotten the 22 mpg they say you can get. I average about 18.5 - 19.5 mpg around town (about 21 on the highway). This car also easily skids in the rain. I think that is more the tires than anything. But when its barely raining and youre going about 40 mph, you start hydroplaning. That is a problem. The xB has really good cornering ability as well. I just wish I had bought a stick!

• 

  Sweet - 2006 Scion TC
  By Scott - May 27 - 11:40 pm

  I got my tC in May and I dont mind driving anywhere no matter how long it is. Its the perfect car for a teenager. Its not too big and not too small.

• 

  Great Car - 2007 Scion TC
  By Dave - May 22 - 6:30 am

  I have put about 5,000 miles on this car so far and I love it. For just being right out of school, it came at the right price, just under $20,000 after warranties and extras. I think there are little things that they could do to improve the car, but its a good start for a fairly new model. Im 62" and I fit in the front just fine and I can fit in the back but, theres not as much room back there. The clutch is kind of weird, but after using it for a bit its not too bad. It has great pick up for just a stock car. The motor in it is the Camry motor, so you know that there is a good proven engine under the hood. I get about 27-31 MPG, but I think that they could make that better with a 6-speed transmission.

• 

  Fun Little car - 2005 Scion TC
  By Perry C - May 9 - 9:16 pm

  Performance: Coming from a 5.0 mustang gives me a bit more perspective than some of the kids moving up from their Civic to this car. It isnt particularly fast, but it is quick, and handles well, is comfortable and the stereo system rocks Gearing/Tranny: I think they did a great job with matching the gearing to the engine. Even in 5th gear, you can pass on the highway, which makes highway driving much more tolerable. First is really short, but thats not a bad thing. Interior: This car is really comfortable and seems much bigger on the inside than it looks like it should from the outside. The seats are firm and supportive, and the driving controls are well placed.

• 

  Scion tC: Great New Car for Your Student - 2005 Scion TC
  By Rob - May 6 - 12:26 pm

  This car handles extremely well, especially around corners at speeds where most cars would be begin to shake. The tC is the best value out there. It has many options standard that most cars have as optional or not at all, including 4-wheel disc brakes, ABS, a panoramic sunroof with an additional moonroof, 17-inch alloy rims, reclinable rear seats, and a 6-speaker Panasonic Sound System. It is also VERY practical. The rear seats can be folded flat to provide enough room for several large TV sets, snowboard equipment for four, etc. The tC is fun to drive, built well, and looks good!