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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  The specs are wrong at Edmunds.com - 2007 Scion TC
  By Daniel - February 11 - 6:50 pm

  I just got this car at the weekend and love it so far. I got the TYC taillights, because I hate the standard ones (boring). The TYCs look excellent with my Nautical Blue. The TRD short-throw shifter is also excellent, a huge improvement over the stock shifter. The point of my review though, is that the 2007 engine is actually slightly tuned up, and the real figures for hp and torque are: 161hp @ 5,700 rpm (300 rpm lower than before). 163 lb ft torque @ 4,000 rpm (200 rpm lower than before). Those are the official numbers on the Scion site.

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  Best in Class - 2005 Scion TC
  By Nick - February 9 - 9:13 am

  Best car in class, hands down. Ive driven the Mazda3 (M3) and while not as responsive (or "sportie") as the M3, overall it is a much better car then the M3. Build quailty is FAR better on the tC, Interior is laid out better, ride is less harsh, good low down torque. Overall, the quality of daily driving the tC makes up for not being as well tuned as the M3. One problem is that the dealership treats you like dirt. Low profit = unhappy dealers. My car had 3 bad scratches/chips, pulled to the right, and the sunroof cracked when I took dilivery, they refused to fix the problems. That was AFTER they promised theyd fix everything IF I told Toyota I was happy with my dealership experence.

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  Good Price - 2008 Scion TC
  By Edward - January 29 - 8:00 pm

  I have had my tC since October, I did not even know that Scion even made this model. I was giving up on the new car search and I cam arcoss the tC. I love my car. Great speed, great cornering and nice look. The price was also wonderful. Thanks

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  The Real Deal on the tC - 2005 Scion TC
  By tCtuner56 - January 26 - 12:50 am

  This car is great. The power of the tuned up Camry engine is awesome in this small car. Actually once youre inside its not small at all. Im 61 and my seat isnt even back all the way and theres tons of room in the back. I dont get 20 mpg either but it is easy to know why. I cant resist pushing the pedal. I dont see how anyone could! This car is very fun to drive. Sometimes I even take the long way home! As for engine noise, I have the TRD exhaust so I couldnt tell you much there. The only problem I did have was the Hercules tires, not sure if they were stock. Sunroof cover is cheap but who cares?

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  I love this car - 2005 Scion TC
  By scion - January 8 - 10:00 am

  This car is excellent. I love how it rides, how it drives and handles. And for the price you cant beat it. Mine is indigo ink with the ground effects, exhaust and I even added leather.

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  I have a white scion - 2005 Scion TC
  By Joe Rivers - January 8 - 10:00 am

  I purchased mine about two weeks ago and I have yet to find something that I do not like about it. I guess I wish it was faster, but what should I expect from 160 horsepower? It is exactly what I needed.

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  Head Turner! - 2005 Scion TC
  By EJ - January 7 - 4:33 am

  Ive had the tC for 2 weeks now and I love it! It drives great, despite me learning to drive manual on it! My co-workers and friends were impressed with all the standard features. Im still breaking it in and I have about 500 miles on it so far.

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  Best Car for Your Money!!! - 2005 Scion TC
  By KDSmith - January 2 - 10:00 am

  I have never had so much fun owning and driving a car!! So many people stop me to ask about it. It handles like a dream and has a suprising amount of power. I never thought I would want a two door car because of the leg-room issue but this car has more room than my 4-door Alero. It is definatly worth every penny!

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  Scions R Kool Cars - 2007 Scion TC
  By valval - January 1 - 10:06 pm

  The 2007 Toyota Scion T C Is a great car.It has a sleek design and looks great on the inside& out. It is a comfortable and fun car to drive.I have had no problems with my car since my husband bought it for me in 2006.Toyota could of had put a better paint job on it.I have noticed small nicks of chipped paint here and there on my car.Other than that I am really satisfied and would recommend someone to buy a Scion....They are really fun vehicles to drive.They Catch peoples eyes and are looking and complimenting you on your car.

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  Great Car - 2009 Scion TC
  By AJ - January 1 - 8:06 pm

  Just picked the car up today. I love the ride and handling. A truly fun car to drive. I do not have problems with headroom (I am over 6 ft tall). Gas mileage is ok.. Could be slightly better but good nonetheless. I am a bit jaded, coming from a Nissan Versa.