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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  Cant beat the 2.4L Camry Engine! - 2005 Scion TC
  By dirtbound - June 30 - 10:00 am

  This car is a blast to drive and its got the history of the Camry engine behind it. If you are even considering a Civic or anything in the $16,000- $19,000 price range.....Buy a Scion Tc

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  Solid and stylish car, incredible value - 2006 Scion TC
  By SeeTedRun - June 23 - 3:13 pm

  Contrary to the information I entered, I own a 2005 Scion TC that I purchased in November of 04 (for some reason, I was not able to enter this info). Ive owned the car for a little over six months now and I have to say that Ive been thrilled with my purchase. For one, the tC is an exceptional value. I paid just under $18,000 for a Silver- Streak, automatic transmission model with the optional airbag package (well worth the $600 and change for the safety...not to mention peace of mind). Every time I get in the car, Im impressed with its overall build quality, smooth operation, German-esque ride, and impressive array of standard features. I test drove a tC and Civic...EASY decision.

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  Teen Car - 2005 Scion TC
  By lc2824 - June 21 - 7:13 pm

  The Scion tC is excellent car for teens. It is stylish, has good safety features and is well accepted by the teen group. The drivers seat could be more comfortable (coming from an Infiniti). I wish it had better gas mileage.

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  a well thought out purchase - 2006 Scion TC
  By bobby - June 12 - 7:33 pm

  If you are anything like me, I could not afford a $30,000 vehicle. I test drove everything even cars that I could not afford for about a year stubornly picky about the car I wanted....until i drove the Scion tC. In a nut shell it has looks, reliability, handling, speed, a great stereo, best wheel package in its class, an engine that will last, fuel eficient without looking like a space ship, an endless amount of accesories and mod capabilities, safe, but most of all sexy. All this for only $17,000 to $20,000!! If this car is marketed to young buyers than older buyers are missing out on a great investment.

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  At least it looks sporty... - 2005 Scion TC
  By big Dog Davidson - May 31 - 9:10 pm

  Ok, here goes. Ive had this car for 3 years. I live in the southwest and it gets hot. The air in this car doesnt get cold, I guess its too much Glass to effectively cool also my sun-visor broke 3 months ago. I agree the skin is too weak to absorb any impact. You will find within weeks that the acres of smooth well fitted sheet metal are too much temptation for rude parking neighbors to resist. I have so many dents and dings I lost count, and I park far away from the doors! The engine is good for the price. But its def not a sports car. Then handling is "so, so". Biggest complaint is Toyotas "debilitating" maintenance schedule. Unless your name is Rockefeller dont plan on keeping up.

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  Never Again - 2007 Scion TC
  By Scion H8er - May 27 - 9:43 am

  I bought this car without even test driving it. After a year, I have noticed problems with it. When you see a Scion, you think it would be a fun driving experience, after a year, I have came to conclusion that it is not much of a driving experience and the styling seems to be a bit bland. Reliability has been top notch but materials do not seem to be top notch.

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  2006 Scion tC - 2006 Scion TC
  By beckstc - May 24 - 3:06 pm

  The 2006 Scion tC is a great car. It is fun to drive, well built, and has a great sound system. I love it.

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  OOOOOOOOOOOOH Yeah - 2007 Scion TC
  By Katie - May 23 - 1:06 pm

  I was actually planning on buying an xA, and I test drove two of them, but I loved the way the tC looked...and once I saw the inside, I was in love. Its beautifully designed, it absorbs about a million times more shock and the ride is much smoother than the VW Jetta that I traded in for this car. Theres a lot more space on the inside than you would think from looking at the outside of it, and the moonroofs are just perfect. All in all, I feel like I bought a very sporty performance car for about half of what I might expect to pay for one. And Scion has about every warranty extension under the sun; the warranty I got was about $1,100 extra and it covers me for six years completely.

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  FUN, FUN - 2006 Scion TC
  By OK2NVAZ - May 22 - 7:26 pm

  I love this car. It is fun, fast, and the price is great. My friend has a tC also and he loves it too.

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  Bad paint - 2008 Scion TC
  By Terry - May 20 - 8:23 am

  I have only put 5,000 miles on the car. I do 90% highway driving and at 65 mph get 32-34 mpg. Its a good looking car, comfortable, has decent performance with good mileage for performance level. The biggest problem is the paint is thin and gets a lot of chips and this is in summer time driving. I have noted this chip comment from several reviews dating back to the orginal car and would think that Toyota would fix the problem by 2008!